Partnerships lead to success

As 2009 quickly comes to a close, I'm aware that the completion of this successful year is due to the support and efforts of others who share the Airport Authority's goals for an active and growing airport and airport industrial center. Our partners understand the economic impact of having 80 businesses and organizations located at the Salina Airport and Airport Industrial Center. More than 4100 employees work at the Airport and Airport Industrial Center. These employees take home $150 million in annual payroll.

Recent job growth at the Kansas National Guard's Great Plains Joint Training Center will add to the already significant local and state economic impact. Since 2006, the Guard's Salina and Saline County employment has grown from 65 to 223 soldiers and airmen. During that same period, the Guard's local payroll has grown from $1.9 million to $6.6 million annually. Even better news is that the Guard is still hiring. The recently activated 284th Air Support Operations Squadron, headquartered at the nearby Smoky Hill Weapons Range, is recruiting highly qualified individuals for the unit's vital national defense mission.

The Guard's Salina and Saline County growth has occurred as a result of the leadership and vision of Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, the adjutant general of the Kansas National Guard. His vision for projects such as the construction of Crisis City and the establishment of the Great Plains Joint Training Center headquarters has been shared by the senior officers of the Kansas National Guard. Maj. Gen. Bunting's leadership is second to none in the United States.

Essential to implementing the Guard's plans have been U.S. Senator Sam Brownback, U.S. Senator Pat Roberts and Congressman Jerry Moran. The Kansas Congressional delegation and staff are tireless in their work on behalf of Kansas military installation requirements and issues.

Governor Mark Parkinson and the Governor's Military Council have provided exceptional support for the Guard's growth. The governor's efforts have been matched by the Kansas Legislature. Together they have provided the Guard with the financial support to build Crisis City.

Local support through the City of Salina, Saline County, K-State at Salina and the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce has been invaluable. City of Salina grant funds helped start the K-State Unmanned Aerial Systems Program Office. Saline County is building road and bridge improvements in partnership with the Guard using federal grant funds. K-State at Salina is securing new contracts and grants for UAS development for both military and emergency response missions. The Salina Area Chamber of Commerce has reestablished the Salina Military Affairs Council to support local service members and their families.

Partnerships are the key to success. I'm thankful for the efforts of the partnerships in place that have resulted in new military jobs for Salina and Saline County. The members of our nation's armed services are valued members of our communities and I feel fortunate that we will be able to welcome more Kansas Guard soldiers and airmen to Salina and Saline County.

Tim Rogers, A.A.E.
Executive Director