The cost of setting the stage for President Barack Obama's visit to MacDill Air Force Base two weeks ago cost taxpayers nearly $100,000.
The president visited Sept. 17 to meet with military leaders at U.S. Central Command and discuss strategy for airstrikes against Islamic militants in Syria and Iraq. But he also gave a speech and publicly thanked troops.
According to partner newspaper the Tampa Bay Times, the set up coast for the event was $94,360. The price tag included the building of the stage, the drapery on it and the audio-visual equipment.
The job, done by Washington D.C.-based Elite Productions, was not put out for a bid.
Government officials said there was no bid because the trip was not finalized until a day earlier and there was no time.