3/21/2009 2:00:00 PM Arena proposed for funds
in state bonding legislation
Big Lake Mayor Lori Kampa and Sen. Lisa Fobbe share a laugh with senators during presentation of Fobbe's bill for the Becker-Big Lake Ice Center. The committee recommended the arena for inclusion in the Senate's jobs bill. (Submitted photo.)
By Lisa Fobbe State Senator
My bill to authorize state bonding authority for the proposed Becker-Big Lake Regional Ice Center cleared a major hurdle last Tuesday.
My bill, which would authorize $500,000 in bonds, was passed by the Senate's Capital Investment Com-mittee as part of a $360 million jobs-creation bill.
I think the positive benefits of this center to the area more than justifies our access to 1/734 of the overall package.
Community support for the arena has been strong, with support coming from the Becker-Big Lake Ice Association, and the City of Big Lake, Big Lake Township, and the Big Lake School Board.
In addition to the ice center, it's my hope that the entire package can see action as soon as possible in both the House and Senate. The job picture is grim, especially in parts of the construction sector. The faster these projects get moving, the faster paychecks can get cashed and spent in local businesses.
