ONONDAGA COUNTY -- A big win for the Onondaga Sheriff's Department in its quest to keep the Air 1 helicopter in the air.
The department announced in a press release today that the Air 1 foundation, formed to help come up with funding, has been granted tax-exempt status.
That means the charity will be able to receive tax deductible bequests, devices, transfers or gifts.
Sheriff Kevin Walsh credits county comptroller Bob Antonacci and Senator Chuck Schumer for helping with obtaining the tax-exempt status.
The helicopter has been a part of public safety in Onondaga County for 35 years, but now it's on a 6 month probation.
Last year, the county legislature made the decision to withhold $342,000 as an incentive for the Sheriff's Department to cut costs, get an FAA license to charge outside counties for the services of the helicopter and to establish a not-for-profit to raise private donations to keep it flying.
In their decision to withhold funding, lawmakers point to the fact that the sheriff's department budget has increased by almost $30 million over the last ten years.
The sheriff's department argues the helicopter is a vital tool in helping to fight crime in Onondaga County along with aiding in search and rescue missions and emergency medical transports.
What do you think? Do you agree with the sheriff about the importance of Air 1? Do we need to keep it in the air at any cost? Or do you side with legislators who question the department's budget?
The Air 1 foundation has already held fundraisers this year. If you would like to make a tax deductible contribution you can do so by mailing a check or money
order to: Air 1 Foundation, Inc, P.O. Box 141, North Syracuse, New York, 13212
