As I See It
Do the airlines really need La Crosse taxpayers’ money?
Well, the La Crosse Regional Airport is at it once again, begging local governments, including the city of La Crosse, to contribute to a $1.5 million piggy bank for airlines.
It’s part of what is called a Minimum Revenue Guarantee fund, which could be used to entice Delta Airlines back to La Crosse.
Let me translate that for you. If Delta, or other airlines, do not make enough money, you cover the difference.
La Crosse County’s board approved $250,000 for the fund, and the La Crosse city council discussed it in committee on Thursday.
Here’s the real kick in the teeth.
Delta, last year, reported $61.6 billion in revenue, $3.5 billion in profit. It’s even handing out $1.4 billion in bonuses.
Yet somehow, the airline needs your money from a fund to guarantees it at least breaks even in flights to and from La Crosse.
This isn’t about better flights.
It’s about government picking winners and losers, crony capitalism and corporate welfare.
And when government picks winners and losers, inevitably, the loser is always you — the taxpayer.
As I see it, I’m Andy Parrish.
Libertarian Guy
March 7, 2025 at 8:11 am
Andy,
We think a lot alike. Yesterday, I posted much of what you said in the comment section of the news story about this. See “City of La Crosse may be ready to “donate” money to help airlines services regional airport.” If City Council and mayor (like our County Supervisors did) support using taxpayer dollars to fund a billion dollar corporation, then they all need to be replaced. Speaking of City Counsel, I am supporting Paul C. Brown for District #13. He and I also think a lot alike.
Sarge
March 8, 2025 at 7:04 am
I’m against giving money to the airlines. But that isn’t the real question here. The real question is do we need an airport in LaCrosse? Companies are in business to make money, period! If an airline is not making the amount of money they want in the LaCrosse market then they have no obligation to stay regardless of how much profit the rest of the company makes. That’s just good business. I’ve been in the area for over 30 years and I’ve only once used the airport once, I don’t think I’d miss it.
R head
March 8, 2025 at 8:44 am
The city and county sur seem happy to give are money away to other people why fix the roads!! If there is a need they will fly here
Eric
March 9, 2025 at 5:38 am
WIZM needs help. Dec 26 th GM of WIZM states local programming we want to get it right !
So far 2 hosts with TDS to an audience that was mostly conservative . Replace the boring replays with Live call ins from LG,Jim,Main Street Guy, Sarg , Ace,Joe,Clyde,Milk Man ,Eric,Mary ,
Put Andy on in the morning and Mike Meyer evening .
Wake up WIZM