STAFFORD — The Stafford Regional Airport Authority discussed the possible reduction of a subsidy paid by Stafford County in the next fiscal year during the group's monthly meeting on Tuesday.
Authority Treasurer Walt George stated that Stafford is not standing pat on a reduction, but he advised that the authority may need to "sharpen their pencils" if they do so. Local municipalities are looking to cut budgets where they can, and the Stafford Regional Airport is no exception, he said.
Stafford County pays $87,700 of the $150,000 shared by itself, Prince William County and the city of Fredericksburg.
A substantial turnout is expected for Force Protection Equipment Demonstration VIII, said airport Manager Ed Wallis. The event has booked 528 vendors and more than 3,000 products will be exhibited.
Government first responders may register for the event. So far, more than 300 people have registered. However, the majority of people register during the week before the event, according Wallis.
The event takes place May 17-19.
The event is a boon to the local economy, particularly to lodging facilities and restaurants, said Wallis.
Wallis asked for another 30 days to look for sponsors for a proposed air show in October. He originally estimated that $30,000 would be needed to make the show a reality. So far Computer Services Company has donated $1,000 and Hargrove Industries has donated the use of materials.
Wallis is in negotiation with other companies for donations, and said that plans for the show have been scaled down from what was previously envisioned.
"We're going to do something," he said. "It may not be a full-blown air show, but we'll do something."
The next meeting of the authority will take place March 8 at 8:30 a.m. at the airport, located at 75 Aviation Way in Stafford.
Jim Lawrence is a contributing writer for the Stafford County Sun. Reach him at info@staffordcountysun.com.
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