By By Staff Reports, Hartselle Enquirer
Several local projects were among those receiving funding in the federal budget approved last week.
Among those projects will be one designed to increase security at Hartselle’s Municipal Airport. The city will receive $47,500 to construct a fence around the airport perimeter. There is currently no barrier around the airport, something local officials have said is a security hazard. The fence will also prevent animals from getting on the runway.
“This is a big win for our region,” said Congressman Robert Aderholt, R-Haleyville, said. “A strong transportation system is vital to the economic development and overall well being of our area. Ensuring the safety and infrastructure of this airport will bring more business to Hartselle.”
Also, the Hartselle Police Department will receive $160,000. These funds will be used to aid police and fire communications, including purchasing a wireless area network and other technology upgrades for the departments.
An organization designed to combat methamphetamine use in the county will also be receiving federal funds.
The Morgan County Drug Task Force will share in $1 million with similar organizations in Blount, Dekalb, Etowah, Marshall, Marion, Pickens and Walker counties. The money will be used in investigating methamphetamine labs, cleaning up lab sites, investigating trafficking routes, training and purchasing equipment.