Tuesday, November 26, 2013
19 Nov 13 - Garrison Spring Ball
Comment by GC: We are going to have a Garrison Spring Ball around April 2014. More to follow.
19 Nov 13 - Garrison-Wide Org Day
Comment by GC: We are looking at having a Garrison-wide Organization Day (like Division did with Marne Week). More to follow.
19 Nov 13 - Credit Hours
Qustion: Information on
Credit Hours?
Answer: USAG Policy Letter #12 provides key information on credit hours. Key takeaways are 24 hours can be accumulated and carried over but you will lose any excess not taken. You can utilize credit hours the same way as annual, sick, or comp time off. You can look further into credit hours via http://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/work-schedules/fact-sheets/credit-hours-under-a-flexible-work-schedule/
Answer: USAG Policy Letter #12 provides key information on credit hours. Key takeaways are 24 hours can be accumulated and carried over but you will lose any excess not taken. You can utilize credit hours the same way as annual, sick, or comp time off. You can look further into credit hours via http://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/work-schedules/fact-sheets/credit-hours-under-a-flexible-work-schedule/
19 Nov 13 - PT outside Bldg 624
Question: PT. Soldiers continuing to get in the way in the
parking lot outside Bldg 624! They
purposely sit on the ground stretching or are in formation directly in the way
of oncoming traffic of folks coming to work.
Answer: GCSM has spoken to them. He relays our comments to the Div CSM to pass down to the units. Suggest submitting ICE comments to Division and if enough comments are submitted, then maybe they will do something about it.
Answer: GCSM has spoken to them. He relays our comments to the Div CSM to pass down to the units. Suggest submitting ICE comments to Division and if enough comments are submitted, then maybe they will do something about it.
19 Nov 13 - Certifying Employees Time
Question: Can you please
inform directors at Staff Call to certify their employee’s time?
Answer: Directors will ensure time is certified at the prescribed deadline and ensure alternate certifiers are on record.
Answer: Directors will ensure time is certified at the prescribed deadline and ensure alternate certifiers are on record.
19 Nov 13 - Insurance
Question: Insurance -Are they going back to “Self plus 1” or
continue with the current family plan?
Answer: You will need to consult CPAC for the next Health Fair or inquire through the Federal Employee Health Benefits website as this continually develops.
Answer: You will need to consult CPAC for the next Health Fair or inquire through the Federal Employee Health Benefits website as this continually develops.
19 Nov 13 - Mentorship
Question: Mentorship. I don’t see much of it.
Answer: I agree. We should continue to share our knowledge with the younger workforce and help them to gain knowledge so that they can be in a position to move up when the older generation decide to retire. Goes back to counseling. When new employees come on board they should be given the workforce development plan. We need to identify the folks who have climbed their career path and make them mentors as they continue to progress.
Answer: I agree. We should continue to share our knowledge with the younger workforce and help them to gain knowledge so that they can be in a position to move up when the older generation decide to retire. Goes back to counseling. When new employees come on board they should be given the workforce development plan. We need to identify the folks who have climbed their career path and make them mentors as they continue to progress.
19 Nov 13 - Alternative Work Schedule
Question: Why can’t we
have an alternative work schedule? With
all the things that we no longer have (awards, time off, TDY, promotions) this
would at least be an incentive to the workforce.
Answer: The workforce has an opportunity to accrue time off through Flexible Work Schedules. Credit hours can be accumulated with supervisor approval where in turn the employee is eligible to take time off, similar to that of compressed work schedules many were accustomed to. Each Directorate must manage their individual workloads to determine feasibility.
Answer: The workforce has an opportunity to accrue time off through Flexible Work Schedules. Credit hours can be accumulated with supervisor approval where in turn the employee is eligible to take time off, similar to that of compressed work schedules many were accustomed to. Each Directorate must manage their individual workloads to determine feasibility.
19 Nov 13 - Budget
Question: What does the
budget look like?
Answer: From the IMCOM perspective, LTG Ferriter has already taken its cuts plus 12% across the board. All Division HQs will take a 20% cut, and DoD will take an additional 14% cut. IMCOM may not survive and may go away in a few years. If so, then we will become a FORSCOM Garrison (like we were in 04). The Army Personnel Budget will continue to reduce manpower. Special Duty Incentive Pay will be cut. Looking at privatizing facilities on installations like they did with lodging and housing. Commissary might be next. We will see a change in Jan/Feb if things don’t get fixed. Budget wisely and put money away in your savings and TSP. We can possibly be furloughed again in 2014.
-CPT Boards will drop to 70% acceptance rate
-O6-O9 will drop 30% with a RIF Board
-RIF / Promotion Board Combo
-Restructure Programs
-Training Battalion Cuts
-Redundant Services – Find Efficiency
Answer: From the IMCOM perspective, LTG Ferriter has already taken its cuts plus 12% across the board. All Division HQs will take a 20% cut, and DoD will take an additional 14% cut. IMCOM may not survive and may go away in a few years. If so, then we will become a FORSCOM Garrison (like we were in 04). The Army Personnel Budget will continue to reduce manpower. Special Duty Incentive Pay will be cut. Looking at privatizing facilities on installations like they did with lodging and housing. Commissary might be next. We will see a change in Jan/Feb if things don’t get fixed. Budget wisely and put money away in your savings and TSP. We can possibly be furloughed again in 2014.
-CPT Boards will drop to 70% acceptance rate
-O6-O9 will drop 30% with a RIF Board
-RIF / Promotion Board Combo
-Restructure Programs
-Training Battalion Cuts
-Redundant Services – Find Efficiency
19 Nov 13 - Off Limits List
Question: How does a company get on the "Off Limits" List?
Answer: Civilians/Soldiers with complaints go to SJA. When SJA sees numerous complaints for a specific business, they look into it further. The Armed Forces Disciplinary Control Board (AFDCB) is chaired by the Director of Emergency Services. Companies have an opportunity to appear before the board and make their case. If they are already on the “Off Limits” list, they can petition the board to re-appear and show steps taken to improve their service. The “Off Limits” list is approved by the Senior Commander.
Answer: Civilians/Soldiers with complaints go to SJA. When SJA sees numerous complaints for a specific business, they look into it further. The Armed Forces Disciplinary Control Board (AFDCB) is chaired by the Director of Emergency Services. Companies have an opportunity to appear before the board and make their case. If they are already on the “Off Limits” list, they can petition the board to re-appear and show steps taken to improve their service. The “Off Limits” list is approved by the Senior Commander.
19 Nov 13 - PoA CAPE Session
Question: Was there a Proffession of Arms CAPE Session at Fort Stewart the first week of Nov?
Answer:
GCSM: Yes, but it was offered to Soldiers only. 3rd ID paid for it.
GC: We will send this to the Workforce Development Program to check into availability and costs to bring to USAG.
GC: Initiatives (FEI) coming up. Might be beneficial with Professional of Arms folks.
Answer:
GCSM: Yes, but it was offered to Soldiers only. 3rd ID paid for it.
GC: We will send this to the Workforce Development Program to check into availability and costs to bring to USAG.
GC: Initiatives (FEI) coming up. Might be beneficial with Professional of Arms folks.
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
28 Aug 13 - Management not visiting staff
Question: Management not visiting facilities/staff within their directorate.
Answer: All Division Chiefs are visiting their facilities on a regular basis as required. I have also asked that the FMWR Director ensures she visits the facilities and programs on a more consistent basis, rather than for issue-related concerns.
Answer: All Division Chiefs are visiting their facilities on a regular basis as required. I have also asked that the FMWR Director ensures she visits the facilities and programs on a more consistent basis, rather than for issue-related concerns.
28 Aug 13 - ICE being misused
Question: ICE is being misused.
Answer: ICE is sometimes misused by employees, customers, and others in an effort to submit wrongful information in an anonymous fashion. However, we've found this to be minimal as each comment is addressed by an ICE Manager as it is reviewed internal to the organization and continues all the way to the Senior Commander. ICE is a valuable tool to get direct feedback from our customers and we will continue to utilize this tool to evaluate our services. We can only hope that it's used properly.
Answer: ICE is sometimes misused by employees, customers, and others in an effort to submit wrongful information in an anonymous fashion. However, we've found this to be minimal as each comment is addressed by an ICE Manager as it is reviewed internal to the organization and continues all the way to the Senior Commander. ICE is a valuable tool to get direct feedback from our customers and we will continue to utilize this tool to evaluate our services. We can only hope that it's used properly.
28 Aug 13 - PRB
Question: PRB - is there a glitch in CPOC?
Answer: In regards to the Program Review Board (PRB), it takes upwards of 60-90 days to receive background documentation. Without full documentation, we cannot proceed in boarding an employee that has derogatory information. We at Fort Stewart/Hunter Army Airfield are setting the pace with our practices and rates of return. Unfortunately it's a long process from start to finish but one that must receive the utmost attention when it comes to protecting our youth.
Answer: In regards to the Program Review Board (PRB), it takes upwards of 60-90 days to receive background documentation. Without full documentation, we cannot proceed in boarding an employee that has derogatory information. We at Fort Stewart/Hunter Army Airfield are setting the pace with our practices and rates of return. Unfortunately it's a long process from start to finish but one that must receive the utmost attention when it comes to protecting our youth.
28 Aug 13 - Pay Raises
Question: People getting raisess while others are not. Folks are getting raises by accretion of duties, then new employees come on board and take the "extra duties" but the pay is not retroacted for the person who originally received the pay increase. (NF2 not being moved to NF3)
Answer: In order for an employee to have an upgrade in a NAF position, the position must undergo a desk audit by NAF CPAC. Positions are only upgraded if there is an accretion in the scope of responsibility, not just having duties added to the position. Specifics would have to be identified to research this allegation any further.
Answer: In order for an employee to have an upgrade in a NAF position, the position must undergo a desk audit by NAF CPAC. Positions are only upgraded if there is an accretion in the scope of responsibility, not just having duties added to the position. Specifics would have to be identified to research this allegation any further.
28 Aug 13 - Favoritism in MWR
Question: Favoritism/low morale/employee treatment/equality/awards. Supervisors not abiding by the same rules and playing favorites to staff that they like. Mentorship should be provided when asked. Supervisors talking at you and not to you. Constantly degrading staff - being cursed at and yelled at.
Answer: Supervisors are required to attend quarterly training sessions provided by myself where we focus on various topics current in the workforce. These forums are ways in which I stress the importance of developing our workforce and bettering our organization. I expect supervisors to display equality throughout and enforce organizational standards at all levels in an effort to better the organization as a whole.
Answer: Supervisors are required to attend quarterly training sessions provided by myself where we focus on various topics current in the workforce. These forums are ways in which I stress the importance of developing our workforce and bettering our organization. I expect supervisors to display equality throughout and enforce organizational standards at all levels in an effort to better the organization as a whole.
28 Aug 13 - Union Rep in MWR
Question: Not aware of Union Representative in MWR.
Answer: For your Union Stewart, please contact the local AFGE at 912-876-9494 where you can find your organization's representative.
Answer: For your Union Stewart, please contact the local AFGE at 912-876-9494 where you can find your organization's representative.
28 Aug 13 - Sponsored Marne Call
Question: Services being cut in DFMWR. Sponsored Marne Calls are a huge money maker for MWR and are paid for by sponsors. Why is this event being cancelled?
Answer: Sponsored Marne Calls have not been cancelled. We usually have an event once every 3-6 months. We are working on having another style of event that is more beneficial to the Soldiers, sponsors and Club Stewart. The goal of sponsorship is to provide events for the Soldier population to participate in events like Right Arm Night, and to create an environment that will foster camaraderie and improve future business at the locattion. Unfortunately, the current sponsored Marne Call attendees are predominately civilians, and have shown that they do not increase participation or revenue.
Answer: Sponsored Marne Calls have not been cancelled. We usually have an event once every 3-6 months. We are working on having another style of event that is more beneficial to the Soldiers, sponsors and Club Stewart. The goal of sponsorship is to provide events for the Soldier population to participate in events like Right Arm Night, and to create an environment that will foster camaraderie and improve future business at the locattion. Unfortunately, the current sponsored Marne Call attendees are predominately civilians, and have shown that they do not increase participation or revenue.
28 Aug 13 - FS Library
Question: Is the library on Fort Stewart being set up for failure? If so, shame on Garrison and MWR. If anyone bothered to come to the library and witness the number of Soldiers, Family Members, Retirees, and civilian employees who come in to use the computers, check out books, audio books, DVDs and children's books, they would be impressed. Evidently statistics mean nothing. Evidently no one cares that the Soldiers will have nowhere to go and don't bring up the Hinesville Library. Everyone knows that is a joke!
**Employee gave GC statistics for the past 5 months showing hourly traffic as well as circulation activity for the past 3 months along with comparisons from other installations.
**Request that the GC and GCSM please visit the library.
**FedLink has been shut down, hours of operation should be adjusted to accommodate folks that arrive after 1700. COAs were provided by library supervisor, not sure if GC saw them.
Answer: The Garrison leadership is meeting with FMWR to review the library's transition and current operability as well as the future. The recent visit to the library was very informative and helps understand the issue first hand.
**Employee gave GC statistics for the past 5 months showing hourly traffic as well as circulation activity for the past 3 months along with comparisons from other installations.
**Request that the GC and GCSM please visit the library.
**FedLink has been shut down, hours of operation should be adjusted to accommodate folks that arrive after 1700. COAs were provided by library supervisor, not sure if GC saw them.
Answer: The Garrison leadership is meeting with FMWR to review the library's transition and current operability as well as the future. The recent visit to the library was very informative and helps understand the issue first hand.
28 Aug 13 - Marketing
Question: I work first hand with military spouses. I would like to see marketing materials with them as the focal point of physical activities, not just some of the stand out Army athletes but real spouses.
Answer: Great idea. We've provided this comment to our marketing team to include for pertinent events in the future.
Answer: Great idea. We've provided this comment to our marketing team to include for pertinent events in the future.
Thursday, August 15, 2013
8 Aug 13 - Army Programs
Comment/Discussion: Quality of Life will be affected - 108 Army Programs are being looked at and some may possibly go away.
8 Aug 13 - DASG
Question: What is the future for DASG personnel?
Answer: DASG will go up to 34 personnel for FY14.
Answer: DASG will go up to 34 personnel for FY14.
8 Aug 13 - Overhires
Question: How many overhires do we currently have?
Answer: As of 12 August, we have 71 overhires.
Answer: As of 12 August, we have 71 overhires.
8 Aug 13 - PPP List for RIF Employees
Question: For the employees that are currently being RIF'd, when they receive their letters, are they still on the PPP list until they are dropped from the roles?
Answer: Employees in receipt of a RIF notice have a mandatory PPP registration requirement and remain in the program up to 1 year.
Answer: Employees in receipt of a RIF notice have a mandatory PPP registration requirement and remain in the program up to 1 year.
8 Aug 13 - FSGA/HAAF Future
Question: Where do you see FSGA/HAAF during your tenure?
Answer: My focus during my tenure will be to take care of our people and continue to provide World Class Customer Service to our force. It will be a tough go in FY14, more so than FY15, but we are posturing ourselves for a better future. Sequestration, a CR in FY14 will all affect our installation - my promise is to keep you informed and guide us through this period. I am working on my Command Philosophy and an Annual Training Plan document - both will be released and briefed at the SOTG in October - we will know where we stand for the rest of FY14 at that point and I will have plotted a way ahead for us. The bottom line is that we are going to have to tighten our belts more and focus on taking care of each other and our customers. We have been here before and we will tough this one out as well. Thank you for what you do everyday.
Answer: My focus during my tenure will be to take care of our people and continue to provide World Class Customer Service to our force. It will be a tough go in FY14, more so than FY15, but we are posturing ourselves for a better future. Sequestration, a CR in FY14 will all affect our installation - my promise is to keep you informed and guide us through this period. I am working on my Command Philosophy and an Annual Training Plan document - both will be released and briefed at the SOTG in October - we will know where we stand for the rest of FY14 at that point and I will have plotted a way ahead for us. The bottom line is that we are going to have to tighten our belts more and focus on taking care of each other and our customers. We have been here before and we will tough this one out as well. Thank you for what you do everyday.
8 Aug 13 - Furlough Exemptions
Question: Future furlough exemptions if furloughed in FY14, can we just carry over the same exemption for the fire fighters that we already have? Can we look at requesting an exemption for the 9-1-1 Center?
Answer: If faced with furloughs again in FY14, I will re-look this decision.
Answer: If faced with furloughs again in FY14, I will re-look this decision.
31 Jul 13 - WAAF
Question: Do we get any use out of WAAF?
Answer: Yes, rotary wing aircraft use it. Grey Eagle is housed out there, and congressional and senior Army leaders arrive/depart out of WAAF. We currently are in the process of extending the runway to 6500 feet so that we can lure commercial carriers to the area. A win-win for us and the surrounding communities.
Answer: Yes, rotary wing aircraft use it. Grey Eagle is housed out there, and congressional and senior Army leaders arrive/depart out of WAAF. We currently are in the process of extending the runway to 6500 feet so that we can lure commercial carriers to the area. A win-win for us and the surrounding communities.
31 Jul 13 - HAAF Waste Water Treatment Plant
Question: When you go to HAAF could you take time to visit the Waste Water Treatment Plant there? Folks there are doing great things keeping it up to standard.
Answer: I visited the Waste Water Treatment Plant on 6 August following this Brown Bag comment.
Answer: I visited the Waste Water Treatment Plant on 6 August following this Brown Bag comment.
31 Jul 13 - Purple Pipe
Question: Has grey water (purple pipe) helped with the water bill?
Answer: Reuse Water, or treated wastewater, which is commonly referred to as purple pipe water, from the City of Hinesville's Off-Post Water Reclamation Facility is used for irrigation of the Taylor's Creek Golf Course, for industrial uses at the FS Central Energy Plant and for vehicle/equipment washing at Bldg 1330 and Bldg 1265 washracks. Purple pipe has also been routed to the Marne View Housing development and upon BBC's connection (Balfour Beaty is projected to connect the purple pipe line to their irrigation system at the beginning of CY14), will be the primary irrigation sourcce for that housing area. All this said, Reuse Water has helped us achieve water conservation goals mandated by Executive Order 13514 and since 2012, we've saved approximately 192MG of potable water through Reuse Water.
Answer: Reuse Water, or treated wastewater, which is commonly referred to as purple pipe water, from the City of Hinesville's Off-Post Water Reclamation Facility is used for irrigation of the Taylor's Creek Golf Course, for industrial uses at the FS Central Energy Plant and for vehicle/equipment washing at Bldg 1330 and Bldg 1265 washracks. Purple pipe has also been routed to the Marne View Housing development and upon BBC's connection (Balfour Beaty is projected to connect the purple pipe line to their irrigation system at the beginning of CY14), will be the primary irrigation sourcce for that housing area. All this said, Reuse Water has helped us achieve water conservation goals mandated by Executive Order 13514 and since 2012, we've saved approximately 192MG of potable water through Reuse Water.
31 Jul 13 - Civilian Education
Question: What is the Army's solution to training the workforce in furthering their education?
Answer: Education won't go away. Mobile teams are in effect going to installations to teach instead of folks having to go TDY. Don't be discouraged if you are thinking about taking the next step in furthering your education. Continue with your packet. We will do our best to help you get the training you need.
Answer: Education won't go away. Mobile teams are in effect going to installations to teach instead of folks having to go TDY. Don't be discouraged if you are thinking about taking the next step in furthering your education. Continue with your packet. We will do our best to help you get the training you need.
31 Jul 13 - HAAF PT Traffic
Question: Can the PT road at HAAF on 5th Street & Stephen Douglas be moved down further? It is causing a problem with civilians trying to park for work.
Answer: CSM Mitchell and CSM Felicioni are analyzing the situation to determine the way ahead.
Answer: CSM Mitchell and CSM Felicioni are analyzing the situation to determine the way ahead.
31 Jul 13 - Credit Hours
Question: Comp time - I don't see it coming back since it is tied to funding, but what about credit hours? They should be authorized to the workforce.
Answer: The Collected Bargaining Agreement (CBA) has been completed and credit hours have been added to the document as a potential schedule. Once approved by DoD, the CBA will become effective.
Answer: The Collected Bargaining Agreement (CBA) has been completed and credit hours have been added to the document as a potential schedule. Once approved by DoD, the CBA will become effective.
31 Jul 13 - FY14 TDA
Question: Could the FY14 TDA change? How about FY15?
Answer: FY14 has already been approved. FY15 has not yet been approved and the numbers may change. If funding is not available, then we will work off what is required vs what is authorized.
Answer: FY14 has already been approved. FY15 has not yet been approved and the numbers may change. If funding is not available, then we will work off what is required vs what is authorized.
31 Jul 13 - Loss of 2 Bde
Question: Will the civilian workforce be affected by the loss of 2 Bde?
Answer: Not much. New battalions will be activated within the other brigades. The total loss will be approximately 700-1000 troops.
Answer: Not much. New battalions will be activated within the other brigades. The total loss will be approximately 700-1000 troops.
31 Jul 13 - Furlough
Question: Could the furlough extend into next FY?
Answer: The current furlough will not be extended beyond 30 September. However, we do not know exactly what will transpire in FY14 and we await further guidance. Based on the known reductions across the DoD, we all must be cognizant to the fact that furloughs remain a possibility in meeting budget reductions and we should prepare ourselves to undergo these challenges again in the future.
Answer: The current furlough will not be extended beyond 30 September. However, we do not know exactly what will transpire in FY14 and we await further guidance. Based on the known reductions across the DoD, we all must be cognizant to the fact that furloughs remain a possibility in meeting budget reductions and we should prepare ourselves to undergo these challenges again in the future.
31 Jul 13 - Furlough Days
Question: Will furloughs be dropped to 6 days?
Answer: Effective 6 August, the Secretary of Defense reduced furloughs to 6 days.
Answer: Effective 6 August, the Secretary of Defense reduced furloughs to 6 days.
31 Jul 13 - Furlough by Directorate
Question: By organization, would like to know what branch/section of each division are being furloughed in each org/division & who was the selecting authority (ies)?
Answer: CYSS (FMWR) / SHARP (ACS) were directed by Department of the Army to be exempted from the furlough. I authorized the fire fighters (DES) to be exempt from the furlough due to already being below authorized strength and would not be able to respond to fires in a timely manner. Forestry and Recycling (DPW) are also not furloughed because they are not DOD funded. Furlough dates are management directed. Not all workforce employees are off on Fridays.
Answer: CYSS (FMWR) / SHARP (ACS) were directed by Department of the Army to be exempted from the furlough. I authorized the fire fighters (DES) to be exempt from the furlough due to already being below authorized strength and would not be able to respond to fires in a timely manner. Forestry and Recycling (DPW) are also not furloughed because they are not DOD funded. Furlough dates are management directed. Not all workforce employees are off on Fridays.
31 Jul 13 - Appraisal Awards
Question: Wondering if GS-8 & below will be receiving appraisal awards? I know that GS-9 & above received theirs. I don't thnk it's ethical if we who make less money do not receive it.
Answer: GS-9-12 received awards following the end to their appraisal period (31 Oct). All GS-8 & below along with GS-13 & above will not receive any monetary or time off awards bassed on sequestration guidance.
Answer: GS-9-12 received awards following the end to their appraisal period (31 Oct). All GS-8 & below along with GS-13 & above will not receive any monetary or time off awards bassed on sequestration guidance.
30 Jul 13 - Shoppette Hours
Question: What are the hours of operation for the Shoppette on Hwy 144 (4 IBCT area)?
Answer: The operating hours at 4 IBCT Express are Mon-Fri (0600-1900), Sat-Sun (1100-1900), and holidays/training holidays (1000-1700). Fuel pumps are operational 42/7.
Answer: The operating hours at 4 IBCT Express are Mon-Fri (0600-1900), Sat-Sun (1100-1900), and holidays/training holidays (1000-1700). Fuel pumps are operational 42/7.
30 Jul 13 - Early Morning Traffic Onto Post
Question: Gate 5 in the morning from approx 0630-0800 only has one lane open. Need to open both lanes so traffic doesn't get backed up.
Answer: Both lanes at Gate 5 are to be opened during the specified time frame. The Chief of Guards has been notified to reiterate operating hours throughout all gates.
Answer: Both lanes at Gate 5 are to be opened during the specified time frame. The Chief of Guards has been notified to reiterate operating hours throughout all gates.
30 Jul 13 - Recognition
Question: Is it possible to do a spotlight once a quarter to recognize either an individual, team or directorate for going above and beyond?
Answer: Each month ICE Heroes are recognized at the FRG/CLIF and quarterly the Garrison Commander's Award of Excellence Program offers recognition for outstanding performance.
Answer: Each month ICE Heroes are recognized at the FRG/CLIF and quarterly the Garrison Commander's Award of Excellence Program offers recognition for outstanding performance.
30 Jul 13 - Garrison Bowling Event
Question: Can we organize a Garrison Bowling Event, similar to the Scramble, for those who don't golf?
Answer: A survey of the workforce will be forthcoming to determine interest in bowling.
Answer: A survey of the workforce will be forthcoming to determine interest in bowling.
30 Jul 13 - PX Dress Code
Question: Can the PX dress code be re-looked to prohibit pajamas?
Answer: The dress code exists to ensure standards exist in our facilities. Pajamas will be included in the revised policy letter.
Answer: The dress code exists to ensure standards exist in our facilities. Pajamas will be included in the revised policy letter.
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
17 Jan 13 - Annual Leave
Question: Can employees take annual
leave in 15 min increments?
Answer: Yes, employees can take annual leave in 15 minute increments based on the bargaining agreement.
Answer: Yes, employees can take annual leave in 15 minute increments based on the bargaining agreement.
17 Jan 13 - Traffic Stops
Question: Why does DES ask for your
SSN during a routine traffic stop?
Answer: The use of SSNs on CBVs is contained in federal law. The back envelope flap on the CBV reads: Privacy Act Disclosure Statement Furnishing your social security number (SSN) on this notice is mandatory under the Debt Collection Improvement Act of 1996, 31 U.S.C. § 7701(c). Your SSN may be used to facilitate collection of forfeited collateral or any adjudicated fines and penalties, and may be disclosed to the U.S. Department of Justice and the Internal Revenue Service for this purpose. Your SSN may also be disclosed to other federal, state, or local law enforcement agencies in connection with other possible violations of law.
Answer: The use of SSNs on CBVs is contained in federal law. The back envelope flap on the CBV reads: Privacy Act Disclosure Statement Furnishing your social security number (SSN) on this notice is mandatory under the Debt Collection Improvement Act of 1996, 31 U.S.C. § 7701(c). Your SSN may be used to facilitate collection of forfeited collateral or any adjudicated fines and penalties, and may be disclosed to the U.S. Department of Justice and the Internal Revenue Service for this purpose. Your SSN may also be disclosed to other federal, state, or local law enforcement agencies in connection with other possible violations of law.
17 Jan 13 - Additional accessto tower on HAAF
Question: What can be done to provide
additional access to the tower?
Answer: There is a draft project to connect the tower to perimeter road just south of the Belmont Cemetery. The project is estimated to be over $1M. This will be an MCA project. We are working to move this forward as a formal project and compete for prioritization with a focus on the out years as part of FS/HAAF 2020- 2030.
Answer: There is a draft project to connect the tower to perimeter road just south of the Belmont Cemetery. The project is estimated to be over $1M. This will be an MCA project. We are working to move this forward as a formal project and compete for prioritization with a focus on the out years as part of FS/HAAF 2020- 2030.
17 Jan 13 - Increase safety for runners on HAAF
Question: What can be done to increase
safety in reference to runners on at the Intersection of Stephen Douglas and Lightning
Road?
Answer: The cross walk markings were verified. A flashing cross walk sign was installed for traffic accessing Lighting Road from Stephenson for better SA for both runners and drivers.
Answer: The cross walk markings were verified. A flashing cross walk sign was installed for traffic accessing Lighting Road from Stephenson for better SA for both runners and drivers.
17 Jan 13 - ATC Specialists
Question:
Are other installations doing this?
Answer: Not aware of any major installation which uses Base Ops air traffic assistants (GS-2154)to perform AIC functions. IMCOM AICs are all staffed with properly qualified GS-2152 ATC Specialists.
Answer: Not aware of any major installation which uses Base Ops air traffic assistants (GS-2154)to perform AIC functions. IMCOM AICs are all staffed with properly qualified GS-2152 ATC Specialists.
17 Jan 13 - FAA Rules & Practices
Comment:
FAA Rules and Practices
Answer: All FAA rules (and DA regs) are being followed for qualification, certification, and proficiency of assigned GS-2152 ATC Specialists. The FAA does not allow GS-2154 Air Traffic Assistants to perform ATC functions. They assist qualified air traffic controllers who work the aircraft and provide aircraft separation services. The FAA does not have AICs such as Marne Radio which provides point-to-point radar flight following and hazardous range advisories in high density Special Use Airspace (SUA.) The FAA does have Regional Flight Service Stations (FSS) that employ GS-2152 Air Traffic Control Specialists (Station) that provide, flight planning, weather information, relay of ATC Clearances, and limited flight following within the NAS.
Answer: All FAA rules (and DA regs) are being followed for qualification, certification, and proficiency of assigned GS-2152 ATC Specialists. The FAA does not allow GS-2154 Air Traffic Assistants to perform ATC functions. They assist qualified air traffic controllers who work the aircraft and provide aircraft separation services. The FAA does not have AICs such as Marne Radio which provides point-to-point radar flight following and hazardous range advisories in high density Special Use Airspace (SUA.) The FAA does have Regional Flight Service Stations (FSS) that employ GS-2152 Air Traffic Control Specialists (Station) that provide, flight planning, weather information, relay of ATC Clearances, and limited flight following within the NAS.
17 Jan 13 - ATC Best Business Practice
Comment:
ATC Best Business Practice
Answer: The best business practices are currently being followed by employing properly qualified, certified, and classified GS-2152 ATC Specialists (Terminal) to perform AIC and CTO functions IAW US Army and FAA directives. The ATC positions at Wright AAF are dual-rated and perform Tower and AIC functions that are properly classified at the GS-11 level.
Answer: The best business practices are currently being followed by employing properly qualified, certified, and classified GS-2152 ATC Specialists (Terminal) to perform AIC and CTO functions IAW US Army and FAA directives. The ATC positions at Wright AAF are dual-rated and perform Tower and AIC functions that are properly classified at the GS-11 level.
17 Jan 13 - GS Level for ATC Specialists
Question:
Bump to GS8 and GS9.
Answer: The median grade for Air Traffic Assistants across IMCOM the large Airfields is GS-8. Others are lower grades (GS-6 or 7). There is only one location where Base Ops operators are GS-9 Air Traffic Control Specialists (Fort Benning, GA). Fort Benning has been written up during IMCOM Quality Assurance Evaluations for improper classification of these positions.
Answer: The median grade for Air Traffic Assistants across IMCOM the large Airfields is GS-8. Others are lower grades (GS-6 or 7). There is only one location where Base Ops operators are GS-9 Air Traffic Control Specialists (Fort Benning, GA). Fort Benning has been written up during IMCOM Quality Assurance Evaluations for improper classification of these positions.
17 Jan 13 - WAAF/Marne Radio
Question:
WAAF/ Marne Radio at FS but not at HAAF.
Answer: AICs are established to provide flight following and airspace management in high activity cantonment areas, training areas, and ranges. Marne Radio provides AIC service for Fort Stewart R3005 which is Special Use Airspace (SUA) located in a complex area of the National Airspace System (NAS). This includes monitoring high density IFR and VFR flight activities around Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, Hunter AAF, Wright AAF/MidCoast Regional Airport, the Fort Stewart Military Operations Areas (MOAS), the Coastal MOAs, and R3007 Townsend Bombing Range. There are over 200 ranges on Fort Stewart, multiple tactical airfields and drop zones, and 279K acres of training area. Air traffic operations includes all types of helicopters, tactical fighters, and Unmanned aircraft systems. Marne Radio air traffic controllers must possess a high level of ATC skills to include a thorough understanding of radar, STARS automation functions, communications and data functions, IFR, VFR, and adjacent NAS. Hunter AAFs airspace is controlled by Hunter Tower ATC Specialists who provide Control Tower Operator services within the Class D airspace and air traffic advisory services within the HAAF cantonment area similar to Marne Radio AIC.
Answer: AICs are established to provide flight following and airspace management in high activity cantonment areas, training areas, and ranges. Marne Radio provides AIC service for Fort Stewart R3005 which is Special Use Airspace (SUA) located in a complex area of the National Airspace System (NAS). This includes monitoring high density IFR and VFR flight activities around Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, Hunter AAF, Wright AAF/MidCoast Regional Airport, the Fort Stewart Military Operations Areas (MOAS), the Coastal MOAs, and R3007 Townsend Bombing Range. There are over 200 ranges on Fort Stewart, multiple tactical airfields and drop zones, and 279K acres of training area. Air traffic operations includes all types of helicopters, tactical fighters, and Unmanned aircraft systems. Marne Radio air traffic controllers must possess a high level of ATC skills to include a thorough understanding of radar, STARS automation functions, communications and data functions, IFR, VFR, and adjacent NAS. Hunter AAFs airspace is controlled by Hunter Tower ATC Specialists who provide Control Tower Operator services within the Class D airspace and air traffic advisory services within the HAAF cantonment area similar to Marne Radio AIC.
17 Jan 13 - HAAF CTO Traning
Question:
Can folks be CTO certified w/ 3 months of training?
Answer: Control Tower Operator (CTO) certificate ratings are for Control Tower positions not Airspace Information Center (AIC) ratings. AIC ratings are issued on an Air Traffic Control Specialist (ATCS) Certificate. Only experienced air traffic controllers would achieve a CTO rating within 3 months. An initial CTO rating requires a minimum of 6 months in training to become rated by FAA standards. IAW Army standards the AIC rating period is 4 months with additional training time extensions as required.
Answer: Control Tower Operator (CTO) certificate ratings are for Control Tower positions not Airspace Information Center (AIC) ratings. AIC ratings are issued on an Air Traffic Control Specialist (ATCS) Certificate. Only experienced air traffic controllers would achieve a CTO rating within 3 months. An initial CTO rating requires a minimum of 6 months in training to become rated by FAA standards. IAW Army standards the AIC rating period is 4 months with additional training time extensions as required.
17 Jan 13 - HAAF Base Ops Cross Training
Question: Can we cross train personnel
at base ops to do "flight following"?
Answer: No, the Current Army requirement is that AICs must be staffed by qualified air traffic controllers. Air Traffic Assistants (GS-2154) are not air traffic controllers (GS-2152). Base Ops GS-2154-8 air traffic assistants have not been screened for qualifications of ATC positions. i.e. must have completed training in a recognized ATC course of instruction (i.e. US Army or other DoD ATC School), possess ATC Specialist Certificate (ATCS Card) with previous facility ratings, be on flight status and possess a current Class IV ATC flight physical, meet maximum age restriction of 36 for initial entry into ATC duties (or possess an age waiver to perform ATC duties), etc.
Answer: No, the Current Army requirement is that AICs must be staffed by qualified air traffic controllers. Air Traffic Assistants (GS-2154) are not air traffic controllers (GS-2152). Base Ops GS-2154-8 air traffic assistants have not been screened for qualifications of ATC positions. i.e. must have completed training in a recognized ATC course of instruction (i.e. US Army or other DoD ATC School), possess ATC Specialist Certificate (ATCS Card) with previous facility ratings, be on flight status and possess a current Class IV ATC flight physical, meet maximum age restriction of 36 for initial entry into ATC duties (or possess an age waiver to perform ATC duties), etc.
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