Right-wing think tank writes letter to Columbia, claims airport revenue guarantee is unconstitutional

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A right-wing think tank is claiming a revenue guarantee the City of Columbia made for flights at Columbia Regional Airport violates the Missouri Constitution.

The Goldwater Institute – named after longtime former Arizona Sen. Barry Goldwater -- wrote a letter to city government on Tuesday, claiming its $1.5 million guarantee for American Airlines violates the state’s gift clause.

The guarantee was made as part of the move for American Airlines to create flights to and from Charlotte. Flights to Charlotte begin Thursday, May 21.

Previous reporting says funds for the revenue guarantee would come from $750,000 of private contributions and $750,000 from the Transportation Sales Tax.

Tony Napolitano, a lawyer who represents the Goldwater Institute, alleged it would be find if the money was given by private donors.

"But, when the city wants to reach into everyone's pocket, and whether you like it or not, take that money, to then guarantee that revenue of an airline or frankly any other business, that's an abuse,” Napolitano said.

ABC 17 News reached out to the city on Wednesday.