House Bill 628, “Aquarium Satellite Areas Funding,” was introduced on March 17, 2009. This legislation passed in the N.C. House of Representatives with a vote of 111-0. It then moved to the Senate, passing 49-0.

Republican lawmakers were misled. They were told the entire project would be paid for using only gate receipts.

The truth is the $25 million pier authorized by Session Law 2009-14 will be using a lot of other monies.

Funding Source: Aquarium Admissions Fund (07-09), $1,750,000; Clean Water Management Trust Fund Grant, $2,328,000; Water Access and Marine Industry Grant, $1,500,000; Aquarium Society, $400,000; DENR Storm Water Pilot Project (H628), $10,585,757; Aquarium Admissions Fund (09-10), $8,761,243. Total, $25,325,000

Aquarium Admission Fund (07-10) total, $10,511,249.

Once Republicans realized the error, both House and Senate Republicans voted unanimously and cooperatively in caucus to repeal the bill. The repeal failed 64-50 in the House and 28-19 in the Senate. Republicans have been diligent in their attempts to curtail spending in Raleigh. Attempts to rein in wasteful spending bear little fruit for the minority party.

The face of the state legislature is likely to change after the general elections in 2010. Republicans may have a better chance number wise in shaping legislation. In any eventuality, boondoggle projects as described here should not be built at this time.

Sen. Basnight’s district is no exception!

Information concerning votes cast by any member of the legislature is recorded and available via the General Assembly website. The information is available to anyone wishing to examine a member’s voting history. As demonstrated, information passed along by the general public is frequently inaccurate.

Sen. Harris Blake voted along with all other N.C. House and Senate Republicans to repeal House Bill 628. Constituents desiring explanations on Blake’s vote or his position on any issue can call his office for information. His office is very responsive to constituent’s requests. That’s why he is highly rated within Senate District 22.

Lee Settle

Pinehurst