95th ABW commander to host town hall meeting

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Julius Delos Reyes
  • 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The 95th Air Base Wing commander will host his first town hall meeting Aug. 25 at 6 p.m. at the Edwards Conference Center. 

The meeting is open to all base residents, and leadership from the 95th ABW, the 412th Test Wing and the Air Force Flight Test Center will be in attendance. 

Col. Jerry Gandy, in his position as the installation commander, will discuss important base issues relating to safety, security and quality of life. 

"This is my first opportunity to speak to and hear from our base residents," Colonel Gandy said. "I want to let them know about my priorities in these areas and listen to their feedback. Town hall meetings like this are an important forum for two-way communication. My goal is to conduct these town hall meetings whenever we have a need. Hopefully, our residents will find it informative and useful." 

One of the commander's priorities is to develop a long-term comprehensive plan balancing traditional yard and xeriscape designs. 

"Water conservation is a priority but I think we can do a better job of where we place grass and where we place desert landscaping," he said. 

In addition, Colonel Gandy will provide an overview of new security and protective measures planned for the Child Development Center, Base Exchange food court and the three gates. These are measures that will provide better protection for kids and public using facilities as well as giving a greater protection at entry control points. 

"These are funds that are being put to good use and I want our residents to know about these plans," said Colonel Gandy. 

A few results from a communication integrated process team, formed by Col. Nancy Wharton, 95th ABW vice commander, will be introduced at the meeting to address the recent base lockdown and preparation for future communication emergency alerts. 

"We always look for better and more effective methods of disseminating important information to the base populace quickly and effectively," Colonel Gandy said. 

Lastly, Colonel Gandy will provide a perspective on where the base is with new housing construction and the way ahead. 

"I know we've received a lot of feedback from our residents recognizing that there are areas to improve upon in the new houses," he said. "I want people to know we are working it."