Councilman Withdraws Item From Agenda

In a move reflective of the adage one must choose one's battles carefully, Phoenix city Councilman Dave Siebert struck plans for an aviation museum from the council's agenda.

According to the Arizona Republic, Siebert sent a memo to the city manager citing "overwhelming support from veterans and corporations state-wide." Siebert says he'll pursue private funding to build the museum.

A recent feasibility study conducted by the city estimated the cost of a premier facility at $50 million. Although Siebert says he's pursuing alternate funding, the city's mayor Phil Gordon told the Republic "there won't be a museum."

The city was to make a decision next Wednesday concerning the museum slated to reside at Sky Harbor Airport. Siebert says if he can get the money, he'll still purchase and preserve vintage and military aircraft and display them in various locations.

The main opposition to the idea came from the arts community. The proposal would have used money earmarked for art projects around the city; the arts community said they didn't believe the aircraft qualified as art.

Others in the city bristled because the proposal was fast-tracked circumventing the normal approval process. That process requires all such proposals be vetted by the Phoenix Arts and Culture Commission.

Siebert hasn't given up all hope of a museum yet. "I think we received more support than opposition, but you try to make as many people pleased as you can," Siebert said. "It's disappointing for the veterans, but I still think it will happen in our community to preserve our history."

He says he's considering including the project in next year's bond program and working with the Veteran's Commission in forming a non-profit organization to raise the money.

FMI: http://phoenix.gov