By KPR
Frankfort, KY – The Department of Aviation has 35 employees and an annual budget of around $10 million. The department oversees three fixed-wing aircraft and one helicopter. Two other planes under the department's control were sold at auction last month. At least two other state agencies also have aircraft and Rep. Jimmie Lee of Elizabethtown wants to see an inventory of the state's air fleet. "To at least know what kind of aircraft we have and just exactly what agency is responsible for those aircraft." A new state budget will be approved next year, and lawmakers want to know more about how state money is being spent on aviation, including funding for general aviation airports, runway repairs and improvements, and weather equipment. The use of road fund dollars for aviation needs, and the fate of a six percent sales tax on jet fuel in Kentucky are also expected to be part of the ongoing discussion.