AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) – It’s something many commissioners want to see, a new direct flight to a major destination out of Augusta Regional Airport, even though the idea did not take off at this meeting.“But I was all in favor it and still am in favor of it moving in that direction,” said Commissioner Tony Lewis.The airport is asking a $1 million-dollar commitment to create a pool of funds as an incentive to attract a new carrier.But the request comes at a time where the city facing a $7 million-dollar budget shortfall, in next year’s budget because the city’s rescue act funds have run out.“I’m going to support, regardless. I’m going to support us pushing and doing what we need to do to get another airline here. It’s no secret it’s a horrible time right now because we’re digging through the budget and we’re trying to balance some things out,” said Commissioner Don Clark.
And while there is support for recruiting another air carrier, the city’s budget situation is a cause of concern for some.“Could you support for recruitment right now?”
“Today, I’m not sure I’ll do,” said Commissioner Tina Slendak.Commissioners say Augusta is not the only government getting the request, and the city money would not be needed if the new airline succeeds.“That money, we’ll hold on to that money in the event the airline needs it, but if they meet the demands of the scheduled flights, then the money would never be used,” said Commissioner Lewis.Airport officials asked for the funding request to be taken off this meeting agenda, but city leaders are on standby for another ask…