The future of Beale Air Force Base remains secure, according to 3rd District Congressman John Garamendi, who also works in conjunction with Nevada County’s Congressman, Doug LaMalfa on base issues. Garamendi was in the region this week to speak to FFA students, including some from this county. He considers Beale as one of the most critical installations for the Defense Department. He says the base is also vital in handling the intelligence data for the war on terrorism…

click to listen to Congressman Garamendi

So, Garamendi says, Beale’s viability remains stable and unthreatened. But he says more equipment needs to be funded in the Federal budget, including aircraft…

click to listen to Congressman Garamendi

Garamendi says the increased missions, and the infrastructure needed to support them, has also brought more jobs to the base and improved the region’s economy. That includes the return of the KC-135 refueling mission and Air National Guard moving to the base.