BEEVILLE — Bee Development Authority board members voted last Wednesday evening to approve an extension of the lease agreement between the authority and Kay and Associates.

The Illinois-based company leases two hangars, a warehouse, paint booth and related facilities from the authority for the Sikorsky Aerospace Maintenance operation at the Chase Field Industrial and Airport Complex.

BDA Executive Director Joe B. Montez said the extension will carry the lease from its current expiration date, on Aug. 1, through Dec. 31.

Although possible defense spending cuts and the winding down of military operations in the Middle East have caused some concerns about the future of the operation, Montez said the companies are intent on maintaining the lease.

He told board members that economic impact in this community during the five years Kay and Sikorsky have been at Chase has amounted to $55 million.

Gary Kent is a reporter at the Bee-Picayune and can be reached at 358-2550, ext. 120, or at reporter@mySouTex.com.