JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- Community members and representatives from across Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson gathered April 3 for a quarterly Community Action Council meeting, boasting a new format designed to foster open communication and keep service members, families and local partners at all levels informed.
The meeting served as a platform for JBER leadership to brief attendees on a variety of topics impacting the installation, including updates on road and weather conditions, in- and out-processing procedures, and readiness measures for potential emergencies – such as a possible Mount Spurr volcanic eruption.
In addition to informational briefings, the CAC provides a valuable opportunity for members of the base community and selected local business representatives to voice concerns, ask questions and engage directly with leadership regardless of rank or position.
“It felt great that there were more targeted topics and that they were presented by the subject matter experts,” said Danielle Duplissis, the team lead at the Army Community Service center. “I learned plenty of great information, and the way it was geared felt more like a conversation that everyone could participate in.”
Maintaining strong communication and community engagement remains a top priority at JBER. Events like the CAC ensure that those living and working on the installation stay informed and connected with leadership as they support the broader mission.
Community Action Council meetings are on the first Thursday of each quarter. All service members, family members, and authorized community stakeholders are encouraged to attend and participate in the conversation.
“The primary reason for the change is wanting to create a bigger impact on the base populace by focusing on key issues and giving more time to the town hall and open discussion, " said Frank Belton, a customer service officer for the 673d Air Base Wing on JBER and one of the key organizers of the event. “The goal is to allow the base populace an opportunity to have a dialogue with base leadership and garner an understanding of readiness and the mission.”
Further information for future events as well as dates can be found at: https://www.jber.jb.mil/Services-Resources/CAC/