Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Cultural Heritage topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Senate trims Air Force Heritage Plane appropriation to require community matching funds
Summary
The Senate amended SB88 to reduce a proposed state appropriation for restoration of World War II aircraft at the Hill Air Force Base museum and to require 1:1 community matching funds; the measure advanced after debate.
Senate Bill 88, an appropriation to assist restoration of World War II–era aircraft at the Hill Air Force Base Museum, drew floor debate about priorities and the appropriate level of state investment.
Senator Montgomery moved an amendment to reduce the request from $707,000 to $350,000 and to make the state contribution subject to one-to-one matching by the community; the amendment passed on the floor. The sponsor described three aircraft to be refurbished, explained that most parts are already in the museum’s possession, and said the intent was to have the planes prepared for display (not to return them to flying condition). He emphasized the historical value and the museum’s rising visitation numbers.
Opponents pressed that community and federal support should be sought and that the state’s limited funds might be better used for social services and children’s programs. Supporters pointed to local fundraising and Air Force support and said a matching requirement balanced state and community contributions.
The bill was placed on the third-reading calendar after a recorded vote (clerk reported the bill shows a mix of ayes and nays and was placed on the calendar). Sponsors and committee members noted community fundraising and the museum’s visitor numbers as justification.
