There's another benefit to the House FAA funding bill (H.R.2881) besides the lack of user fees. On a local level, it would provide a way for a northern Ohio county to buy and preserve a threatened airport, something AOPA has been urging for years. Under an amendment offered by Rep. Steven LaTourette (R- Ohio), Lake County commissioners could seek a federal grant of up to $1.22 million if they decide to buy Lost Nation Airport from the city of Willoughby. The city has stopped accepting federal monies and is only obligated to run the airport through 2016. "Rep. LaTourette has shown his leadership in preserving the future of aviation access to the Cleveland area," said Andy Cebula, AOPA executive vice president of government affairs.
September 28, 2007