Ortt Secures $150K to Help Retain Niagara Falls Air Base

Senator Rob Ortt (R,C,I – North Tonawanda), a member of the Standing Committee on Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs, today announced he secured $150,000 as part of the 2016-2017 state budget to assist with retention efforts at the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station (NFARS).

The $150,000 has been awarded the Niagara Military Affairs Council (NIMAC) in support of its efforts to ensure the air base remains in the forefront. The volunteer organization advocates on behalf of the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station in cooperation with all levels of government.

Senator Ortt said, “Through its strong community ties, advocacy and promotional efforts, nationwide relationships, and profound respect for the men and women of our military, NIMAC has kept the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station in the spotlight for the past two decades. These state funds, in conjunction with the new missions at the 107^th and 914^th Airlift Wings, will go a long way in helping to secure the base’s future. I am confident NIMAC will continue to lead the charge in preserving the base and its economic viability in Niagara County.”    

NIMAC Chairman John Cooper said, “This financial support is vital to our efforts as we continue to work to support the growth and prosperity of the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station. Our past success in obtaining new and enduring missions is in no small part due to the support we have received in the past from Senator Ortt and our local community.”

The NFARS is the largest employer in Niagara County with more than 3,000 military and civilian employees. The air base is an asset to the area as a whole, creating an economic impact of more than $143 million to the region every year.