CANDIDATE QUESTIONNAIRE

MAYOR, CITY OF PEKIN

12. Should the City of Pekin continue to invest in the infrastructure of the Pekin Municipal Airport? Why or why not?

Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce: The City of Pekin should continue to invest in the Pekin Municipal Airport. It is one of the unique economic development and quality of life assets that gives Pekin an advantage over other area communitities. Infrastructure improvments generally require only a 5% match from the City of Pekin. Additionally, the City should have a plan to reach the break-even point on annual operating expenses.

Mark A. Luft: The investment in our airport has certainly been an important and necessary need. We have basically rebuilt our airport with pennies on the dollar due to State and Federal grants. The airport offers a unique asset to existing local companies and future industry looking to locate in Pekin. This is an asset most communities cannot offer.

John McCabe: The airport not only serves a number of businesses in the area but contributes to the local economy with the occupation of motel rooms, shopping in local establishments and the purchase of fuel. The airport should be seen as a tool for future development and we need to do a better job of promoting this important asset.