Protecting SJAFB: Money for buffers around state military installations badly needed

One of the most important, if not the most important, jobs of our local and state elected officials is protecting Seymour Johnson Air Force Base.

That is why we are perplexed at the news that money to match federal funds to protect the base from encroachment was apparently not included in the budget recently approved by the General Assembly.

As we have said before, we know our legislators are keenly aware of the need to keep Seymour Johnson safe. They know well the base's importance, not only to national defense, but to the local economy.

That is why we are confident that they will quickly address the situation and find the money to match a $9.2 million grant designed to create buffers around the state's military bases. Development too close to the base can endanger its status with the Department of Defense, and that is something no one in Wayne County wants.

We believe our lawmakers, who carry a lot of weight in Raleigh, will rectify the situation as soon as possible.

Published in Editorials on July 17, 2017 9:51 PM