STEARNS NOTES SPIRALING COST OF RENOVATIONS AND UN’S HISTORY OF WASTE AND ABUSE
 

Washington, Feb 18 -

“The cost for renovating the headquarters of the UN has doubled from the original estimate and my amendment prohibits taxpayer funds from being used for the design, renovation or construction of the headquarters,” stated Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-FL).  “I am not opposing creating a   safe environment for UN workers and visitors, but I do want the UN to focus on fiscal reform and better procurement practices.  Congress held a hearing in 2005 to determine if the UN estimate reflected the lowest cost option, and Donald Trump testified that the true cost would far exceed the estimate and that he could complete the renovations for $700 million, nearly half the cost.”

The House tonight approved the amendment by Stearns 231 to 191 during consideration of the Continuing Resolution.  Added Stearns, “The architect originally selected to complete the renovations was later terminated, and given $44 million.The leadership at the UN must learn fiscal discipline, especially when using money from American taxpayers.”