Congressman Mike Turner today issued the following statement in response to the Clinton County Port Authority’s closing on the Wilmington Air Park:
“The closing by the Clinton County Port Authority on the Wilmington Air Park concludes several months of negotiations with DHL on finalizing the donation of the air park to the community. DHL’s decision to donate the Wilmington Air Park to the Port Authority is tremendous news for families and residents of Clinton County and the surrounding communities. The announcement today marks a new chapter in the history of Wilmington, Clinton County, and the entire region.
“DHL is to be thanked for making the donation of this valuable asset. The business decision of DHL to close the sort operations at the Wilmington Air Park negatively impacted the community, but this donation enables the Clinton County Port Authority and the region to better control its destiny and future. The park can be a cornerstone for an economic recovery benefiting the Clinton and Highland County region.
“Today’s announcement further enhances the potential of the region to leverage language I included in the FY11 National Defense Authorization Act, requiring the Secretary of Defense to report on ways to utilize opportunities at the Sensors Center of Excellence at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in areas of detect, sense and avoid technologies.
“I applaud Board Chairman John Limbert of the Clinton County Port Authority for his tireless effort in negotiating the donation from DHL and Wilmington Mayor David Raizk, and the members of the Economic Task Force for their hard work and commitment to ensure the Wilmington Air Park remains in local control. I look forward to continue working with the community on economic development opportunities to bring jobs to the region.”