How many of us realize the major escalation of estimated cost hikes for the new, relocated airport?
The local paper first headlined the initial costs to be between $52 to $57 million. Fast forward to a doubling that reached $130 million, next to $190 million. As of today, projected costs have reached $325 million, a figure that would normally induce the ire of every taxpayer.
The FAA is the first source of funding. The second is the county. It is outlandish at this point of economic uncertainty to think taxpayers may be asked to support a bond issue to make up the deficit between the 77 percent coming from the fiscal support of the FAA and the final cost of the airport.
Such a project could be sidelined by political and economic wrangling over the future federal and state cuts in spending. This could leave the residents of Blaine County with a financial dilemma on their hands. It is more critical than ever for the commissioners to demand a clear accounting of costs by the FAA and guarantees of funding for this project.
In addition, specifics need to be pointed out regarding a possible 30- to 40-year bond issue for Blaine County taxpayers. How would this indebtedness affect spending on other future county expenditures? In view of these current economic realities, where is a Plan B?
In light of the above, would it not be prescient for both the commissioners and the public to take a fresh, hard look at the proposed relocation project and possible alternatives ?
1. Think of revisioning a modification of the present airport. Purchase land necessary to extend the airport. Problems of mountains and inclement winter still remain, as do the current statistics of 20 percent of winter flights being either diverted or canceled. This would provide the least bold and most inexpensive option.
2. Be open to directing energy and resources towards a multi-county regional airport in collaboration with Twin Falls, closer to Jerome. Yes, it's a radical long-term venture. Yet future benefits can be incalculable, given the will and determination of all responsible entities, including shared costs, airport affordability and sustainability. How long will it have taken to achieve the final relocation completion of the Hailey airport 30 miles south of Hailey?
Mary Jane Conger
Ketchum
