The company's agreement with Somerset to provide scheduled air service essentially saved the project which had been a decade in the making by slowing progress for the renewal of grant money.
For an affordable price, flights go in and out of an airport hub in Nashville, from which travelers can continue on a connection to any destination they seek.
The economy and the future of Somerset
With the completion of numerous projects and plans on the table for several more in the coming year, Girdler is not worried about the impact the dreary economy may have on the city -- so far, Somerset has seemingly come through the other side of the melee unscathed.
"We are in great financial shape and we have plans for the future," Girdler said. "Those cities who are active, those cities who are progressive and are ready can really take advantage of the economic downturn."
In other words, costs of vital construction projects are way down, and that is a good thing for cities like Somerset that have resources to use. While other cities may be struggling to find the revenue to continue important projects, Girdler said he and other city officials have worked to undertake management and operational changes that have helped the city to save more than $2 million.
"By going ahead and proceeding (with budgeted projects) we are going to reap the benefits," Girdler said.
Girdler also said natural gas rates will not increase in 2009, tax rates will remain the same and other utility costs will be controlled.
Still, Girdler emphasized that the financial road won't be a smooth one.
"It's going to be tough for the first part of 2009," Girdler said.
Decreases in the occupational tax and insurance premium tax revenue for the city will likely occur as a result of the economic downturn, but Girdler said the city will continue to focus on replacing those revenues through changes in administrative efficiency and through the creation of additional revenue as a result of the natural gas settlement.
"We've got to do our part," Girdler said. "We can't depend on the federal or state government right now."
But Obama's stimulus package may provide some future assistance. With help from those funds, future construction projects such as the new fire station can bring something to the area that has become harder and harder to find: Jobs.
"$35 million to $50 million worth of construction projects can really help the local economy," Girdler said. 'We can really have an exciting future."
Girlder expressed interest in working further with the city council in 2009 -- along with its two newest members, former councilor Jerry Wheeldon and Mike New, son of deceased councilor Charlie New. Wheeldon upset uncumbent Jimmy Eastham by one point, while New squeaked past councilor David Childers by a total of only 134 votes.
"We absolutely can do anything as a city," Girdler said about the upcoming year. "The year 2009 is looking good."
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