A Bullhead City man says he’s going to build 50 airports around the world, starting in Kingman.
City leaders are skeptical, to say the least.
Records show Dr. James Heldman has offered Kingman $1 billion for the airport and industrial park. Kingman officials say the park is the largest in Arizona, outside of Maricopa County.
Heldman plans to transform the area into a hub for heavy cargo aircraft and offer commercial service, according to documents provided by the Kingman city clerk. His offer says current leases will not be broken and can be renewed. Heldman guarantees the venture would bring at least 1,000 jobs. If people have the right technical skills, Heldman’s offer says the number could swell to 15,000 jobs.
Heldman envisions Kingman as the showpiece for his global aspirations.
“I have large funding,” Heldman said. “Non-recourse loans, and that’s as far as I’m going to go. My asset manager takes care of the money part.”
Nevada lists Heldman as president of Crown Western Company Inc., which he said is an oil company with massive reserves in Russia.
Kingman swore in a new mayor in December. Days before taking office, Monica Gates said the city manager and her predecessor asked her to meet with Heldman. She did, but their conversation didn’t last long.
“I’ve never had anyone looking at a million — a billion dollar deal — that didn’t come in with attorneys or spokespeople or agents,” Gates said.”
Gates said she told Heldman his proposal won't go before the City Council, unless he provides a formal letter of intent and proof of a line of credit.
Heldman provided KJZZ with a letter he sent to Kingman city hall and a receipt of delivery. Heldman said he'll provide financial verification next month.
