BLM backs Henderson land plans

WASHINGTON -- The Bureau of Land Management has signed off on a bill that would transfer 502 acres of federal land to Henderson for development around the city airport.

The agency told the House public lands subcommittee this week it approved of the bill, which also is progressing through the Senate.

Henderson Mayor Jim Gibson spoke at the subcommittee hearing that was held Tuesday. His testimony only added to the record of support.

Gibson said the city's proposed acquisition was "a vital component of our long-term economic plan."

The bill would allow the city to expand its property base and allow it to control development near the Henderson Executive Airport.

Any revenues the city gains from leasing or auctioning the property would be deposited into a federal account to be spent on parks, conservation and capital improvements.

The House bill sponsor was Rep. Dean Heller, R-Nev. He said the bill was "clearly noncontroversial," and he expected it to pass the House in September.

In the Senate, the Henderson bill has been approved by the Energy and Natural Resources Committee but is among dozens being held up by Sen. Tom Coburn.

The Oklahoma Republican is in a dispute with Democrats over amendments he wants to offer to some bills.

Sen. Jeff Bingaman, D-N.M., the energy committee chairman, has combined the Nevada measure with 95 other land bills into an omnibus bill that Democrats hope to pass over Coburn's objections.