Sen. Cornyn Meets With Abilene Officials; Discusses Priorities For Area

Press Release

Sen. Cornyn Meets With Abilene Officials; Discusses Priorities For Area

Also receives update on critical military construction projects that will help ensure a strong role for Dyess Air Force Base

U.S. Sen. John Cornyn was at the Abilene Chamber of Commerce today where he hosted a meeting with local officials, including Abilene City Manager Larry Gilley and Dyess Air Force Base Commander Col. Robert Gass, and representatives from different fields and organizations throughout the community. Sen. Cornyn discussed his ongoing efforts in the Senate to strengthen domestic energy production and lower gas prices. He also received an update on key issues important to the community, including new C-130 aircraft funded by Congress and headed to Dyess in the near-term as well as a new C-130 maintenance hangar, both of which Sen. Cornyn strongly supported.

"Today's meeting with the Abilene Chamber of Commerce, City Council, and other community leaders was productive and insightful. I'm particularly pleased to hear that Abilene continues to take a leading role in expanding wind energy production. With energy prices taking a toll on families in Texas and across the nation, we need to expand every available energy source. By taking the lead in wind energy, Abilene will help bring down energy costs, while growing new jobs and strengthening the local economy.

"At the same time, Dyess Air Force Base continues to be a source of pride and strength for the Abilene community. I had the opportunity to visit with Col. Gass today who represented Dyess Air Force Base and the countless men and women who serve our country right here in Abilene, as well as in overseas theaters of combat. I remain committed to ensuring that Dyess has the tools it needs to accomplish its mission. Securing brand new C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, as well as a new maintenance facility for our airmen to keep them flying, are critical initiatives that will help ensure a strong role for Dyess in our national defense for decades to come," Sen. Cornyn said.

In April, a Forbes magazine special report ranked Abilene number 58 among 179 of the nation's top small metropolitan areas for business and careers. Taylor County and the City of Abilene are looking towards even bigger growth with alternative energy, Dyess Air Force Base, continued development with the city's universities, and further expansion of the medical community.

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