Recently at Council there was a robust discussion on the purchase of lands that are adjacent to the Hamilton International Airport. The City Council is required to purchase lands for the purpose of the extension of the runway under the current arrangement with Tradeport International. The point of the debate is not the lands we are required to purchase but the congruent lands that are needed for that expansion of the runway.

I believe this investment is strategic and will enable economic opportunities that will pay taxes, create jobs, and be complimentary to the operation of the airport. Currently under the lease we are responsible for all the lands. However, the capital expenditures for the buildings and infrastructure are the responsibility of Tradeport. By way of the extension of the lease the fact that we are purchasing additional lands is consistent with our role as landlord. Let me be clear, this is not a legal obligation. It is a strategic investment.

When the lease term is expired the land and all buildings will return to the ownership of the City of Hamilton. There is no risk to the tax payers of this community. These lands will hold their value be economically contributing to our tax base and synergetic with the operation of the airport.

I believe this was the right decision for Council to make financially. We should continue facilitating the growth of the Hamilton airport for the benefit of all tax payers living here. What do you think?