Nye County Commissioner Butch Borasky voiced objections Tuesday over using the PETT funds for 5 percent county contributions to Federal Aviation Administration grants for improvements at Beatty, Gabbs and Tonopah airports.

The total county cost would be $108,860. With the 95 percent FAA contribution, the projects are valued at $2.17 million.

"We can't continually pull money out of fund 492," Borasky said. "There are hard times ahead. I'm receiving nothing to inform me money will continue to come in."

Commissioner Joni Eastley defended the airport improvements.

She said the rural airports are needed in those communities for emergencies and as "economic engines."