During Tuesday’s meeting, Shasta County Supervisor Chris Kelstrom will again try to convince his colleagues to approve ponying up more county funds to contribute to the revenue guarantee for the United Airlines non-stop flights between Redding Regional Airport and Denver International Airport. United required a promise of $2 Million to ensure that the airline does not take a loss for the flight over the course of the first year. Denver is a transportation hub for United, connecting to many international flights. City officials say the public investment will pay off in tourism dollars and increased business activity. Last May the Board of Supervisors approved a $100,000 contribution, and now they’re being asked for another $100,000. The City and the Shasta Economic Development Corporation raised $550,000 from the community. The city also secured a $760,000 federal grant and pitched in $290,000 from the general fund. Last month the council approved pledging the money to fill the gap to reach the $2 Million, and a few days later United Airlines announced the daily non-stop flights are set to begin on May 22nd of this year. The city is still hoping to recoup some of the investment from the county and other entities.
-Steve Gibson