Community FIRST/AFAP

Completed Issues

(FY 07)

These issues were submitted by the community through Community FIRST/AFAP and are deemed “complete” by the responsible organizations or directorates on Fort Jackson.

ARMY & AIR FORCE EXCHANGE SERVICES (AAFES)

CIVILIAN PERSONNEL ADVISORY CENTER (CPAC)

COMMISSARY

DEFENSE MILITARY PAYROLL OFFICE (DMPO)

DENTAL ACTIVITY (DENTAC)

DIRECTORATE OF EMERGENCY SERVICE (DES)

DIRECTORATE OF HUMAN RESOURCES (DHR)

DIRECTORATE OF INFORMATION MANAGEMENT (DOIM)

DIRECTORATE OF LOGISTICS AND ENGINEERING (DLE)

DIRECTORATE OF MORALE, WELFARE, & RECREATION (MWR)

DIRECTORATE OF PLANS, TRAINING, MOBILIZATION

AND SECURITY (DPTMS)

DIRECTORATE OF RESOURCE MANAGEMENT (DRM)

GARRISON

INSTALLATION HOUSING OFFICE (IHO)

INSTALLATION SAFETY OFFICE (ISO)

MONCRIEF ARMY COMMUNITY HOSPITAL (MACH)

PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE (PAO)

STAFF JUDGE ADVOCATE (SJA)

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ARMY & AIR FORCE EXCHANGE SERVICES (AAFES)

Issue 1: I was recently at the Gate 2 Shoppette on Graduation Day. I was shocked while waiting in line to hear family members being verbally rude and obnoxious to the clerk because they could not buy cigarettes or alcohol.

Recommendation: Signs should be put at the cashier stations stating, “You must be and ID card holder to purchase items.” In addition, I suggest that this information be included in the informational packets that are sent to family members that are attending graduations.

Response: AAFES regulations require that cashiers ask customers for their authorized military ID cards. All customers are required to show their ID before a purchase is made.

Status: Complete (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 2: The main Post Exchange is too small.

Soldiers in Training take over the PX for 2 days of the week.

Recommendation: Make the PX bigger.

Response: The current PX is approximately five years old. Normally Master Planning is done every 10 – 15 years. This will definitely be an issue of consideration at the next assigned Master Planning.

Status: Complete (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 3: The PX hours during Block Leave go down to a scaled down version when the basic trainees are here. I realize that a ton of money comes from the graduating families, but let us not forget the primary reason for support here at Fort Jackson is the permanent party Soldiers and their families.

Recommendation: Ensure that the hours are extensive enough to cover normal duty hours and provide opportunities for all to enjoy the PX privileges during the Christmas/Holiday Season.

Response: Holiday Season hours are extended at the Main PX: Sunday – Wednesday 0900 – 2300 and Monday – Thursday 0600 – 2300.

Status: Complete (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 4: Broken gas pumps at AAFES gas stations.

Recommendation: Repair the broken gas pumps.

Response: A project is submitted to replace all gas pumps. Additional information regarding the project status will be made available as received.

Status: Complete (2^nd Qtr FY 07)

Issue 5: Better prices, better sales throughout the year.

Recommendation: Lower prices and have more sales for the military community.

Response: AAFES policy to provide the best price and service to our customers. Don’t forget to take advantage of our price challenge program where we match competitors’ prices. We are implementing quarterly sales events to bring better savings to the community. Check out your community website at www.aafes.com for a complete listing of all schedule events. Also, stop by your PX and sign up for AAFES “buddy list” program to receive advance information regarding all the excitement happening around your Exchange.

Status: Complete (2^nd Qtr FY 07)

Issue 6: Air Pumps Not Working

Both air pumps on Fort Jackson are not working. They have been out of service for a while. If a Soldier needs to put air in a tire while they are on post, they have to go off-post because the pumps are not working.

Recommendation: Fix the air pumps.

Response: All pumps are currently working except Gate 1 Shoppette. A work order is submitted for this repair.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

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CIVILIAN PERSONNEL ADVISORY CENTER (CPAC)

Issue 1: New DOD Employee Orientation

Newly arrived and DOD personnel have no reception and integration training. Employees are not informed of basic information that is necessary to understand basic policy and procedures. The morale and efficiency of employee job performance can be negatively impacted by this lack of knowledge.

Recommendation:

• CPAC needs to contact the directors and commanders to identify their current

Training coordinators.

• Publicize in the Fort Jackson Leader all upcoming employees training.
• Model “Army 101” to “Jackson 101” during the 1^st week of new employment.

Response: The CPAC conducts New Employee Orientation sessions quarterly. The CPAC’s module covers employee’s benefits, entitlements, performance appraisal system, job descriptions, training/developmental opportunities, labor/employee relations. Representatives from various offices on the installation cover their respective topics such as safety, EEO, ethics, labor relations, Exceptional Family Member Program. The information regarding the New Employee Orientation is provided to the liaisons in the organizations for distribution. The CPAC will begin publishing the information in the “Leader”. Directors & commanders know who their training coordinators are because they designate them.

Status: Complete (Civilian Employee Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 2: The grade levels of GS employees on Fort Jackson are very low compared to other installations.

I have observed persons employed as a GS 5 on Fort Jackson and the same job classified as a GS 11 on another installation.

Recommendation: Grading system should be standardized throughout all installations.

Response: (Previously submitted – 1^st Qtr FY 06)

It is not unusual for positions among installations that appear to be similar to have the same title but different grades. It would be very difficult to standardize grades among installations because a number of factors influence the grades of positions. First, the Federal law, Title 5, United States Code (USC), governs the classification of jobs. The law requires positions to be classified based on the duties and responsibilities assigned and the qualification to do the work. Secondly, the assigned duties and responsibilities are evaluated against criteria such as the knowledge and skills required to perform the work and to carry out the responsibilities of the work; the qualifications required to do the work; the degree of difficulty involved in the work; the kind of supervision received, the nature of personal judgment required; the level and purpose of contacts with others; the physical demands of the work; and the work environment. The structure or the make-up of the organization may also impact the grade of the position. For an example, an office on one installation may have 10 employees where the same type of office on another installation may have five employees based on the organization’s workload. In addition, managers have the responsibility for sound position management which requires them to organize work to accomplish the agency’s mission in the most efficient and economical manner. They are to carefully design position structure which blends the skills and assignments of the employees with the goal of successfully carrying out the organization’s mission or program. When or if an employee thinks that his/her job is not properly classified, the employee has the option of filing a classification appeal. The employee may initiate an informal appeal by submitting a request to management for an informal review of the classification of his/her position. The classification refers to the title, pay plan, series, and/or grade assigned to the position. If all informal efforts are exhausted and the employee still disagrees with the classification, the employee has the option of filing a formal classification appeal. The Civilian Personnel Advisory Center (CPAC) is available to advise the employee on the classification appeal process.

Status: Complete (Civilian Employee Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 3: Management accountability to their employees.

Management should provide pertinent information required for employees to perform duties; ensure the workplace atmosphere is not hostile or threatening; ensure fair and equal promotion recommendations and make training is made available to all employees.

Recommendation: Managers should be trained and attend refresher training in employee relations.

Response: (Previously submitted – 4^th Qtr FY 04)

There are three courses available for first time civilian supervisors. The Supervisory Development Course (SDC) is an on-line course which is mandatory for all military and civilian supervisors. Leadership Education and Development (LEAD) course is also mandatory and conducted on Fort Jackson. The CPAC’s goal is to offer LEAD quarterly, but the schedule is dependent on the availability of the facilitators. It is management’s responsibility to track completion of these mandatory courses for their newly assigned supervisors. Non-completion of these courses can be reason for non-completion of the civilian supervisory probationary period. There is a new, non-mandatory course for supervisors, HR for New Supervisors, which the CPAC plans to offer twice a year. Contact CPAC for dates of training.

Status: Complete (Civilian Employee Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 4: Mentorship Program

There is no active mentorship program for ALL DOD employees. Without a mentor, employees are hindered in their advancement. This may negatively affect a civilian employee’s career progression.

Recommendation:

• Make a mentor available to all employees within their organization.
• Provide and promote a training location, equipment and time.

Response: The Department of Army has a Mentoring Program established that is covered under DA Pamphlet 690-46. IMCOM also has a Mentoring Program. The CPAC will draft a proposed program for commander’s decision and coordination with management as appropriate.

Status: Complete (Civilian Employee Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 5: Installation mandatory training.

All of these trainings are canned presentations whether on line or in person. They are not tailored to the audience to which they are presented and consequently are not as effective as they should or could be. These trainings are also being done to the detriment of the mission. They are both time consuming and costly in dollars in productivity as well as creating additional stress in the workplace.

Recommendation:

• Carefully consider the need for and impact of mandatory training and tailor the training to the audience it will be presented to.
• Train the Trainer – Each individual unit/organization identify a trainer that can attend the initial training and then tailor the presentation for their unit/organizations specific audience.
• Supply an alternative to on-line training given that there are many installation personnel who do not have access to a computer as part of their normal duties.

Response: The training that is mandated by the Department of Army many

times comes with the prescribed training material to be used and the method of delivery such as classroom or on-line. If the training is conducted in a classroom, the instructor and the employees have a shared responsibility. The instructor is expected to deliver the training in a customer-friendly language; and employees are expected to participate in the training by asking questions to ensure they gain an understanding of the material. While the training may be mandatory, it is expected to be accomplished around the mission, not in lieu of the mission.

Arrangements are made to accommodate employees who do not have access to computers. In some cases train-the-trainer concept may be appropriate. Those responsible for the training may bring it to the appropriate leaders to implement this concept.

Status: Complete (2^nd Qtr FY 07)

Issue 6: Raise for Civilian Employees.

Recommendation: Civilian Employees should get a 3% raise.

Response: Pay raises for Federal employees are proposed by Congress and approved by the President.

Status: Complete (2^nd Qtr FY 07)

Issue 7: Customer Service Accountability

Customer service is a post-wide problem. Customer service training is ineffective when managers and employees are not being held accountable. This problem affects the entire Fort Jackson community to include installation visitors.

Recommendation:

• Management must meet set standards as well as implement and enforce said

standard.

• Corrective training administered to those with a number of negative complaints.
• Implement a “boss” telephone line.

Response: Customer service accountability appears to be at the command level.

Update (Mar 07): Customer service accountability is a leadership/supervisor issue within the directorates/organizations providing the service. Individual leadership/supervisors of directorate/organizations should take corrective steps when necessary. In reference to implementing a “boss” line – this requirement is not necessary as ICE is a direct link from customer to management.

Update (Jan 07): Presented issue to WB Action Council and voted complete.

Status: Complete (Civilian Employee Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 8: NSPS Training

NSPS training on writing of objectives was not sufficient for employees or supervisors nor was the training on the use of the automated system adequate. The failure to adequately train the workforce on the new system will ultimately have a negative impact on employees.

Recommendation: Provide good “sample” objectives for all types of jobs not just clerical positions. Provide mentoring for supervisors in the writing of objectives. Have someone who has been successful provide support to those having difficulty.

Response: Working to schedule more training.

Update: The CPAC provides ongoing training on development of SMART Objectives and also provides personal assistance, upon request, to customers. The training is published in the CPAC Training Calendar. The CPAC team requests feedback from customers on ways of improving the training and also requests participants to complete an evaluation of the training. We use the evaluations to improve the training material and the delivery of the training.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 9: Civilian Employees Educational Background

A large number of civilian employees do not have high school diplomas. Despite the fact that the Army has many online web-based classes for education, some personnel do not have the computer skills needed to take advantage of the web programs. This effects office production and also morale as professional growth is limited.

Recommendation: Institute a GED program for all employees who do not have a high school diploma. Coordinate with the Education Center to conduct classes during work hours, lunchtime, or right after work.

Response: There are 12 Federal employees identified in the personnel data system who do not have a high school diploma or a GED and approximately 90 Non-appropriated Funds (NAF) employees who lack a high school diploma or GED.

According to DHR, the Fort Jackson Education Center does not offer a GED program on the installation. The Education Center directs Family members or Federal employees requesting information on how to obtain their HSD or GED, to School District One. District One offers a complete Adult Education Program with either the HSD or GED. The Education Services Officer is currently working with the Director of Adult and Community Education, in District One, on providing the program here at Fort Jackson. We will update as required on the progress of implementing this program.

Update (June 08): The Education Center will find out if this education program from District One can train on post, if so they are able to use the Education Center’s classrooms. CPAC will evaluate if a current program (Army Prep School) can be used for Civilian training.

Update: On-post GED Program -- Our Army Continuing Education Services (ACES) Center does not offer a GED program on Fort Jackson. However, our ACES Center offers (through its Testing Program) the practice GED test for civilian employees and provides reference GED study material. Our ACES Center offers a Basic Skills Education Program (BSEP) to provide instruction in basic reading and math. Enrollment in our BSEP provides instructions in only two (reading and math) of the five (language arts, math, science, social studies, and writing) subjects of an official GED program. Moreover, civilian employees may use the on-line program/courses and the computers in our Multi-Use Learning Lab Facility (located in our ACES Center) to support the requirement to obtain a GED certificate.

Status: Complete (3^rd Qtr FY 07)

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COMMISSARY

Issue 1: Fluctuating Commissary Prices.

At certain times of the month (around paydays) the commissary prices increase on store items. For example, one week paper towels are $1.36, 2^nd week they are $1.74. Another item without coupon is $1.50, next week with a coupon $2.00. This affects the entire Fort Jackson community especially those on a fixed income.

Recommendation:

• Keep pricing at a reasonable level without fluctuation (except for sales)
• Allow price matching at the commissary.

Response: We conduct bi-weekly price changes at the commissary, the prices change on the 1^st and 15^th of each month.  During the first of the month prices change on from 3 to 4 thousand items in the store. We carry 16,500 line items. The sales on items change also during those time periods. Therefore, if an item is on sale the price will change back to the regular price on the 1^st or 15^th of the month. The prices are changed from our HQ; the prices are not controlled at the commissary level.

Status: Complete (Surviving Spouses Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

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DEFENSE MILITARY PAYROLL OFFICE (DMPO)

Issue 1: Single Soldiers not living in the barracks should receive DLA when they PCS.

A PCSing single soldier with no family members is not authorized any DLA. If they do not live in the barracks, they will still have to purchase or rent a home upon moving to the next duty station, whether they have a family or not.

Recommendation: Allow single soldiers who were currently living on the economy to receive DLA funds to help them get started at their next duty location.

Response: Approval of this request is driven by Department of Army Per Diem Travel and Transportation Allowance Committee DTD March 1, 2007.

Member without Dependents Elects Not to Occupy Inadequate Government Quarters.

A soldier above the grade of E-5 is authorized DLA if the member:

1. Has no dependents
2. Is assigned to quarter of the United Sates that do not meet the minimum adequacy standards established by DOD for members in such grade, or
3. Is assigned to a housing facility under the jurisdiction of a uniformed service that does not meet such standards.

d. Elects not to occupy such quarters or facility

The key to this question is grade. Soldier must be above the grade of E-5 to qualify for Dislocation Allowance on PCS.

Status: Complete (2^nd Qtr FY 07)

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DENTAL ACTIVITY (DENTAC)

Issue 1: Assigned Parking

There is currently no assigned parking at Hagen Dental Clinic. Parking would be easier for employees/patients if parking spaces were marked.

Recommendation: Assign parking in the parking area for:

a. 10 minute parking

b. NCO

c. Clinic Chief

d. Patient Parking

Response: The DENTAC Commander can authorize this change in parking.

Update: The commander has authorized designated parking for the leadership at Hagen. The signs have been ordered. The patients do not require designated parking, as there is ample parking available. There is not a need for 10 minute parking spaces.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

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DIRECTORATE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES (DES)

Issue 1: Walking Path Security

The walkway path from Hood Street to Pierce Terrace is overly wooded and overgrown. Children use that walkway on a daily basis to go to and from school. Due to the high level of visitors to Fort Jackson this creates a potentially dangerous situation for the young children.

Recommendation:

• Have an MP or staff member stationed in the wooded area.
• Fence the walkway.
• Bus students to and from school.

Response: DES has tasked Bike Patrol personnel and the DARE officer to check these areas during times of the day when children are going to and from school. Police patrol personnel have also been instructed to make checks of the area on foot throughout the day to make sure it is safe. Additional measure should be taken by family members and school staff personnel to look out for strange vehicles or adults in the area who act suspiciously. Staff and family members should notify law enforcement personnel of any suspicious activity in these or any other area of housing.

Status: Complete (Family Member Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 2: Signage on Family/Graduation Days

On Family and Graduation Days traffic coming into Gate 2 (Forest Drive) is really congested during the 0730 to 0900 time frame. Visitors are confused and do not know which lane to get into until they are directly in front of the gate. Visitors do not look at the signage above the gates due to moving traffic.

Recommendation: Place lane signs out (approximately 3 ft in height) on the road during these two days. The lane signs would designate which lane was for visitors.

Response: All lanes are open to visitors on graduation and family day. This change was made during the summer to alleviate any confusion for families who visit the installation on Thursday and Friday. Additionally DES gate personnel have coordinated with DPTM and the graduating units to hand out quick and easy to understand maps in all lanes and at all gates on graduation and family day.

Status: Complete (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 3: Detour Signage Beyond Gate 2 Traffic Light

Gate 2 and the traffic light is an issue during Family Day and Graduation. The turn is blocked and cars now go beyond the intersection and make a U-turn in front of the Welcome Center. This still causes traffic to back up and becomes dangerous to other drivers following those trying to make a U-turn.

Recommendation: Put a “No U Turn” sign by the Welcome Center on Family Day and Graduation Day.

Response: We will place cones and have patrol personnel monitor the area, when available, along Strom Thurmond Blvd to ensure that this vehicles continue to Jackson Blvd and follow the alternate route to the Post Exchange.

Status: Complete (Family Member Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 4: Wording on Signs

One of the signs telling incoming visitors which lane to use as they enter post is grammatically incorrect. Fort Jackson is the only installation that many of our visitors will ever see. It reflects badly that that sign is one of the first things they will see.

Recommendation: Replace the signs. Rather than saying “vehicles with decal’s”, remove the apostrophes. The decals do not possess anything – nor is it correct to say “decal is,” so “decal’s” is wrong usage.

Response: We have placed work orders for these replacement signs as well as many others on the installation and will replace them as they are completed by DLE.

Update: As of January 07 these signs have been repaired and or replaced.

Status: Complete (Civilian Employee Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 5: Safety in the Housing Areas on Family Days & Graduation

Family members are concerned with the safety of the housing areas during Family Days & Graduation. Visitors are seen driving around the family housing areas every week. As the Post is opened to outside visitors on those two days the concern centers around our children being outside from both a traffic aspect as well as the possibility of abduction.

Recommendation:

• Develop signs restricting visitors from driving in and around the housing areas unless actually visiting residents.
• Incorporate information briefs discouraging visiting family members from driving in the housing areas.

Response: Family members are routed away from housing areas when they visit post for Family Day and Graduation. DES has also tasked Bike Patrol personnel and the DARE officer make extra patrols of these areas. Uniform Police patrol personnel have also been instructed to make checks of the area on foot throughout the day to make sure it is safe.

Status: Complete (Family Member Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 6: Driving Directions on Family Day

Visiting Family members of graduating Soldiers find it confusing to locate the Solomon Center. Often times they end up parking in the wrong area leading to frustration and traffic congestion. Visiting Families and community members are subjected to hazardous driving conditions thus creating a negative initial impression.

Recommendation:

• Create detailed instructions to the Solomon Center.
• Post adequate signage for Family Day parking.
• Provide shuttle service (golf carts) from parking lot to building.

Response: The DES traffic section sets out directional markers a day prior in the cantonment area from the appropriate gates to help Family Members to travel to family day and graduation. In addition MWR provides maps of the installation to help families travel on the post. The DES will re-evaluate the signs currently in use and make adjustments as necessary.

Status: Complete (Retiree Focus Group) (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 7: Hours of Operation at Gate 1

Gate one is not open 24 hours a day. Having set operational hours at Gate 1 is an inconvenience to soldiers that may need to enter Fort Jackson during hours in which it is closed. Having this gate closed at various hours leads to traffic congestion at the other gates as travelers have to find an open gate to enter post.

Recommendation: Keep Gate 1 open 24 hours a day.

Response: Past studies have shown that the traffic flow at gate one is not sufficient to justify the added cost and manpower to maintain this gate 24 hours.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 8: Traffic Congestion at the Gates

There is excessive traffic congestion at the Gates with people trying to gain access to Fort Jackson. This adds stress to the personnel trying to enter the gates, and hardship to the guards that have to work the gate during these times of excessive traffic.

Recommendation: Put more gate guards on the gates during peak hours, to alleviate traffic congestion.

Response: Upgrades to the gates are ongoing. New traffic control devices have been installed to help speed entry into the installation. Additional guards have been authorized and the hiring process will begin in the near future.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Here is a similar issue that was previously submitted:

Issue: A turn light is needed at Strom/Magruder (Gate 2), for the PX traffic.

Recommendation: Put a turn light on that intersection. Have Brigades or Battalions to provide temporary passes on Wednesday or Thursday mornings. Allow soldiers again to assist with signing in Family day or Graduation traffic on Thursdays and Fridays at Gate 2 & 4.

Response: DES had several issues surrounding Gate 2. Concerns included traffic backing up in left turn lane; high traffic volume during morning graduation; and the length of time to gain access to the installation. The DES Director stated there are plans in the works to remove the intersection and lights as a long term fix; and closing the left turn lane during graduation as a short term fix. The recommendation to increase personnel to check ID cards would not alleviate congestion as that is not the “chock point”. The intersection and signal light is the “choke point” area. There is an MP controlling the signal light during morning traffic.

Issue 9: Late Performance Evaluations for DA Police.

Performance evaluations are not on time. Supervisors and Officers are or have left without having written or received Annual Evaluations. This affects the morale and mission of the Department of the Army Police Force as they have few performance evaluations in their files.

Recommendation:

• Establish a procedure within the Department of the Army Police to track and follow up to ensure that all supervisors prior to leaving write an evaluation if he/she supervises a person for 120 days or more.
• Establish a procedure to ensure that all DA Officers receive a written evaluation prior to leaving if he or she leaves with 120 days or more for his/her supervisor.
• Coordinate with the local CPOC Office to ensure that the program works or is in compliance.

Response: DES is currently working this issue.

Update: All evaluations have been completed.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 10: Installation Security and Safety

Every time you drive up to the gates, you wonder who decided to build such shabby security buildings and barriers. Unfortunately these types of structures are a big eye sore and offer no viable security to the installation. Personnel at the gates are a mix of professionals and non professionals. Some are very perceptive and some disinterested in their duties. Whatever the case, it seems to me that more money needs to be invested in the front gates. Fort Benning and Fort Leonardwood have gone high tech on their gates, but Fort Jackson is still in the stone-age.

Recommendation: Use end of year funds to enhance the readiness and security of FT Jackson, the largest and premier installation of the US Army.
Response: Funds for security upgrades have been requested. Upgrades include security cameras and improvements to the existing buildings. Beautification projects have recently been completed at gate one and gate two.

Update: The old security trailer at gate two has been replaced with a new one. Currently a new building is being constructed at gate two and is projected to be completed in early 08.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 11: Traffic Patterns at Hagen Dental Clinic

On certain days it is near impossible to get out of Hagen Dental Clinic, if you are turning left towards Strom Thurmond. This creates hazardous driving conditions.

Recommendation:

• Open Hagen Dental Clinic’s parking lot on the SE side, where the Fire Department used to be. Patients and employees can exit the parking lot directly onto Strom Thurmond Blvd.
• Have an MP or other security personnel direct traffic outside the Hagen Dental Clinic parking lot during those times that traffic is jammed.

Response: Several installation agencies, to include the DES, are in on going discussions of how to resolve this problem.

Update: DPW responded that the entire area needs to be looked at and an engineer solution needs to be developed prior to a decision as to how to address this issue.

Update (May 08): A work order will be submitted to have signs posted (facing both directions of traffic) stating “Do Not Block Intersection” and the road will be painted to reflect the area where cars are not allowed to block when traffic is backed up. Posting an MP will not be beneficial to manpower usage. A work order will be submitted to have signs posted (facing both directions of traffic) stating “Do Not Block Intersection” and the road will be painted to reflect the area where cars are not allowed to block when traffic is backed up.

Update (Sep 08): The work order has been submitted to DPW.

Update (Nov 08): Per DES: A Work Order was submitted (WO #CV019508) (DMO # 26936-8) to have signs posted (facing both directions of traffic) stating “Do Not Block Intersection” and the road should be painted to reflect the area where cars are not allowed to block at any time. Once this work is complete DES will periodically monitor the area to ensure personnel are adhering to the Traffic Control Devices/Markings.

Update (Jan 09): The roadway has been painted and signs have been posted to instruct drivers to not block the intersection. DES periodically monitors the intersection and has written traffic violations for vehicles blocking the intersection. DES will continue to monitor the area.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

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DIRECTORATE OF HUMAN RESOURCES

Issue 1: Medical Records Review at Retirement

Soldiers who are retiring do not know what is needed in their medical records during records review with the VA Representative, while in ACAP. Despite the fact that the part time VA Representative does take your medical records and attempt to quickly explain the system, this does not give the retiree enough prior planning for this review. This review process has the greatest impact on a retirees overall medical compensation entitlement percentage.

Recommendation: Give a thorough class to all retirees as soon as they receive their orders or early during ACAP. This will allow the retiree an opportunity to gather all appropriate documents and most of all give them a better understanding of the medical records review process prior to turning in their medical records.

Response: Effective 1 October 2007, the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) will increase the length of their monthly briefings from two hours to four hours. The additional time will allow participants to ask additional questions concerning DVA procedures and records reviews. Clients can also schedule individual appointments concerning the medical records reviews on Mondays and Thursdays with the Veterans Affairs Representative. Mr. Ferguson’s telephone number is 803-751-6071 and has office hours from 0900-1600 hours on days indicated above in Room 207at the Education Center. These appointments may be scheduled at anytime during and after the transition process.

The Fort Jackson ACAP Center also offers a monthly Disabled Transition Assistance Workshop concerning disability benefits and entitlements. ACAP clients, retirees and veterans are invited to attend the briefing as well. They may register for this class by calling 803-751-4109.

In addition, the DHR Retirement Services Office hosts a semi-annual (March & September) Pre-retirement Orientation that is open to Soldiers with approved retirements. The next orientation is scheduled for 0800-1200, 25 September 2007, in the Joe E. Mann Recreation Center, Bldg 3392, Magruder Ave.

Status: Complete (Retiree Focus Group) (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 2: ID Card support for deploying Soldiers and Family Members of Army National Guard (ARNG)

There is a lack of mobile facilities and sites in South Carolina to facilitate ID Cards for ARNG and Family Members not in the Fort Jackson area. Travel time is excessive for deploying Soldiers and Family Members. This becomes an inconvenience to the Soldiers and family members due to limited time constraints.

Recommendation:

• Obtain more mobile ID card stations within South Carolina.
• Develop reach back capabilities at National Guard Bureau level.

Response: There should not be any problem with family members going to any National Guard Armory, Army Reserve Center or Military Installation to obtain a Dependent ID card that has ID/RAPIDS/DEERS capability. The SCARNG has approximately 2 Fixed and 4 mobile units, the mobile units can be dispatched to any of the SCARNG facilities provided they are notified in advance. There two key requirements that are necessary to obtain a Depentdent ID card: one is a copy of the Soldiers Active Duty Orders and the other is that Soldier would be required to complete the DD Form 1172 (Application for Uniformed Services Identification Card DEERS (Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System) Enrollment) or provide his/her spouse with a “Power of Attorney” inorder to act in their absence. Without this form, the dependents will not be able to enroll in DEERS. Other documents like a marriage license may be needed for those recently married. Family members can also go to www.dmdc.osd.mil to locate the nearest Military Facility that has ID/RAPIDS/DEERS capability. Once at the site, click-on Public Sites, next click-on RAPIDS Site Location and enter the necessary information (i.e. Zip Code).

Status: Complete (AFAP – 2^nd Qtr FY 07)

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DIRECTORATE OF INFORMATION MANAGEMENT (DOIM)

Issue 1: Fort Jackson Phone Numbers in BellSouth Phone Book

In the 2007 BellSouth Phone Book, there are no Fort Jackson phone numbers. People unfamiliar with Fort Jackson can’t find the numbers. As a main source of information, this resource is vital to their ability to access Fort Jackson services resulting in frustration and non usage of services.

Recommendation: Include frequently used phone numbers in the BellSouth 2008 phone book.

Response: Due to a delivery error by the contracted vendor for this service, the BellSouth Yellow Pages, Fort Jackson listings were not included in the 2007 directory. A protest was filed for services not rendered and have been assured by contracted vendors that the Fort Jackson phone listings will be in the 2008 edition. In preparation to this, the current listing has been sent to various activities throughout Fort Jackson for updates to the listed numbers. Once provided to contracted vendor; they have until November 2007 for inclusion in the 2008 edition.

Status: Complete (Retiree Focus Group) (4^th Qtr FY 07)

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DIRECTORATE OF LOGISTICS AND ENGINEERING (DLE)

Issue 1: Establish a shuttle bus to eating establishments on base.

This would reduce traffic and pollution on the installation and increase use of on post MWR facilities.

Recommendation: Provide a shuttle to the food court at the PX, to the golf course, to the Officers Club, and to the NCO Club from 1100-1400.

Response: The current shuttle route is within walking distance to all the locations on the list except the Golf Course.  Since shuttle service can’t be provided for unofficial use – like going to lunch – we can’t add the Golf course.  The PX, Officer’s Club and NCO club are close to authorized stops. We will post authorized stops in the Fort Jackson Leader.

Status: Complete (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 2: Clothing Initial Issue Point (CIIP) intermittent employees need to be reclassified as permanent employees.

Due to the fact that employees are classified as intermittent, they work only as needed. They are told on any given day that they are not needed for the next two weeks or for any time period. This is done despite the fact that there are other locations that need staffing. If made permanent, employees would have the opportunity to acquire more hours and receive benefits.

Recommendation: Reclassify CIIP intermittent as permanent employees.

Response: Because of the workload CIIP intermittent employees are not classified as permanent employees.  They are classified as intermittent because of the fluctuating workload in the CIIP.  For instance, during Block Leave there will be nothing for them to do for two weeks.  They signed a document indicating that they are aware of the work requirement when they took the job.  However, CIIP does have 10 permanent positions that are currently filled. We will distribute flyers and all information to all intermittent employees on the proper procedure through CPAC to apply for permanent government positions. Also we have a class scheduled in January in the CPAC classroom.

Status: Complete (Civilian Employee Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 3: Recycling Awareness

There is a need for persistent awareness and promotion of the benefits of recycling. “It is a matter of saving our land and being gracious to our Planet Earth.” Although not mandatory in the Housing areas, recycling needs to be practiced by all residents.

Recommendation:

• Increase awareness among residents with education classes on recycling.
• Increase awareness among children at school
• Make Recycling Mandatory on the installation.

Response: The CG has endorsed a post-wide participation of housing occupants with the Fort Jackson recycling Program. Curbside service pickup of recycling material will be provided which will be once a week just for recycles. Currently all new housing occupants get initial recycling class before provided housing and have a recycling container provider for them which they are to bring material to the Recycling office which is open 24 hours a day seven days a week. We have in the past provided the service but do to lack of participation we had to cancel the curbside service. The leader constantly posts recycling awareness and the recycling office has had many schools off-post as well as the on-post schools come to there student classroom at recycling office and receive classes.

1. Increase awareness among residents with educational classes on recycling: Educating the community is one of our most important platforms. Our market plan addresses all segments that are part of this installation. We are open for any suggestions in educating our community. We don’t want to be the problem; we want to be part of the solution to reduce the solid waste that is generated on Fort Jackson. These are some of the ways we have educated the community in FY06:

1. Earth Day Jamboree and Easter Egg Hunt (Article in the Post Leader on Earth Day) Grinding the Green (Article in the Post Leader & Mayors Meeting)
2. Telephone Book Exchange (Just for Units & Activities)
3. We had 4 additional articles in the Post Leader in FY06)
4. Family Housing Pilot Program (Mayors Meeting, Information Exchange Council & the Post Leader)
5. Newcomers Briefing
6. Information Exchange Council
7. Mayors Meeting
8. Through out the year pass out flyers on Recycling

2. Increase awareness among children at schools: Each year, all 3 schools participate in a slogan contest, to pick a recycling slogan for the up and coming year. The slogan for FY07 is “Don’t Be Mean Keep It Green”. All schools can and do bring their students up to the Recycling Center on tours. At the center, we teach them about protecting the earth, and the 3 “R’s”, Reduce, Reuse & Recycle. In FY06, we had 12 classes visit the Center.

3. Make recycling mandatory on the installation. At the present time, recycling is mandatory for all active duty, civilian and components that reside on the installation. The Commanding General has embraced the sustainability program which means that everyone must participate in universal recycling. Housing occupants will be part of universal recycling in the near future, and it will be made easier, by using curbside

Pickup. Until we have executed curbside pickup, we would like for the house occupants to continue to bring their recyclables up to the recycle center for distribution.

They also generate 1.4 million dollars yearly with an operation cost of $242,000.00.

Status: Complete (Family Member Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 4: Traffic Light at Marion Street and Strom Thurmond

The traffic light at Marion Street and Strom Thurmond is entirely too lengthy. Several minutes go by without any traffic movement through the intersection. This causes unnecessary traffic delays.

Recommendation: Adjust the signal light mechanism to activate by traffic flow rather than time.

Response: We recently changed the traffic light system from set on timers to the loop weighted system. This will signal the green light when the cars arrived to the weighted scale cross-section.

Status: Complete (Family Member Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 5: Water point at Darby Field

There is not potable water on-site. This affects all of those utilizing this site since there are no proper means of hydration available. Heat injures could occur due to dehydration.

Recommendation:

• Install covered drinking fountains and a water faucet so bulk water could be carried to units.
• Install water dispensing vending machines.

Response: Additional water fountains can be added to building 3402. We will do a cost estimate and submit to the proper channels for priority and funding.

Update: We have installed two additional water fountains to building 3402 at Darby Field.

Status: Complete (AFAP – 2^nd Qtr FY07)

Issue 6: Smoking area table and chairs at Strom Thurmond Building

The bench and table at the Strom Thurmond Building Smoking Area are wobbling and shift when they are sat upon. This could pose a safety hazard for employees.

Recommendation: Replace all of the tables and chairs in the Smoking Area.

Response: DLE has completed stabilization repair of the connecting stone tables and benches at the Strom Thurmond Smoking area as requested on work order #CG-000157.

Status: Complete (3^rd Qtr FY 07)

Issue 7: Tree Maintenance on Post

Many trees on post are being choked of water and nutrients by competing grass. The ground near these trees is not aesthetically pleasing. Too much effort is being used to trim and rake these areas. The use of newspaper and mulch will help. Newspaper will biodegrade within 1-2 years yet prevents the weeds and grass from growing. Mulch keeps the moisture in and around the trees and acts as a nice looking boarder around the trees/shrubs or flowers. It will increase the health and vigor of the trees.

Recommendation:

• Use newspaper from the Recycling Center and mulch from the Mulch Site to help with post sustainability efforts…they are both free.
• Lay newspaper out on the ground under the drip line of the trees and wet them down.
• Cover the newspaper with 1”-2” of mulch.

Response: The use of mulch and newspaper around the base of trees is a good idea for high value trees that are in the containment area. The effect of using mulch and newspaper in other areas will depend on the area and type of tree. Mulch is available at the mulch site off Golden Arrow Road from 0800-1500 and Newspaper is available at the Fort Jackson recycle Center Bldg# 5671 phone# 751-4208 there hours are from 0700-1500 hours. If there are any questions farther specific about certain trees and locations using this method please contact Fort Jackson Forestry at 751-4622.

Status: Complete (3^rd Qtr FY 07)

Issue 8: Street Lights in Housing

Street lights are constantly going out and identification of the actual light pole is difficult. As hours of darkness are now earlier, this becomes a safety issue for residence.

Recommendation:

• Number the street lights in a location visible from the ground level for residents to identify.
• Create a hotline so that those living in housing can call in a light by giving the number on the pole. This would make finding the correct light easier.

Response: A contract has been awarded to the Core of Engineers. They should start the implementation during the next 6 months.

Update: Has already been awarded and the Corp of Engineers are currently installing

new street light and poles.

Status: Complete (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 9: Crosswalk in front of the Provost Marshal’s Office (PMO)

The rate of speed is too high for this location designated with a crosswalk. Some drivers are unaware that a crosswalk exists.

Recommendation:

• Lower speed limit in front of the PMO.
• Monitor the traffic in front of the PMO
• Write tickets for violations in front of the PMO
• Repaint the lines for crosswalks
• Flashing lights to warn drivers of pedestrians

Response: The contract to paint all crosswalks and parking lots on the installation is currently at DOC

Update: DLE recently repainted the crosswalk at the DES building along with the

intersection of Jackson and Lee Road.

Status: Complete (3^rd Qtr FY 07)

Issue 10: The Intersection Crosswalks Need to be Re-painted.

I can barely see any of the lines and it is unsafe to walk across during high traffic.

Recommendation: Repaint the lines so that cars and pedestrians can safely cross.

Response: (Previously submitted - 3rd Qtr FY 06)

The DLE had indeed initiated contracts to address both asphalt repair and tree removal. Painting of crosswalks is part of these contracts. Both contracts got off the ground and then both stalled for lack of contractor performance. Each of those contracts is now up and running and about to finish the original delivery order. Unfortunately current budget restraints may delay the issuance of any more delivery orders for a period of time. Emergency asphalt repairs have been tasked to the DLE in-house workforce for execution and will continue to do so until the contract is again funded

Update: Due to budget constraints a contract funded challenges DLE is not able to keep up consistently with the repair of all road conditions. However, some things we are addressing are emergency and safety issues by filling large pot holes with gravel and putty and assuring safety devices are in place to avoid road hazards.

Update: Will be executed during 2^nd Quarter 07 the contract to paint crosswalks as well as intersections and parking lots will be awarded and implemented using SRM funding.

Update: This contract is currently at DOC waiting to be awarded.

Update: The contract should be awarded in the next two weeks, according to DOC (as of 5 June 2007)

Update (Aug 07): Per DOC, the contract was recently awarded.

Status: Complete (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 11: Identification of Streetlights

There is no way to identify light poles on Fort Jackson. If a light pole goes out, someone could call DLE with a location, but not the specific light pole and it takes forever for it to get fixed.

Recommendation:

Place ID numbers on each street lamp and light on Fort Jackson. Once a month or a quarter pay one person to work after nightfall so that they can spot check the street lamps on post to make sure they are in working order.

Response: Currently the street light pole is identified by street location and closest building to the light pole. Red Engineer tape is also available from DLE at 751-4263 building 2604 to mark defective lights.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 12: DLE Maintenance Responsiveness

DLE Maintenance is not responsive enough. Issues are constantly going unfixed due to lack of staffing by DLE. Their hands are tied with a laundry list of useless “feel good” environmental and safety policies. Let them fix our broken stuff.

Recommendation: Increase the number of staff members, and fund them appropriately.

Response: The DLE has recently filled 15 of the 20 MEO vacancies. The filling of the vacancies and should improve the response time.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 13: Recycling Program

The program is not well publicized in the housing areas. Residents in housing would comply if only they knew the needed information. (i.e. Pick up, where to take it to, and what can be recycled.)

Recommendation:

Publicize the recycling program more. Use the Strom Thurmond Board, Community Bulletin Boards, as well as a routine message in The Leader.

Response: Educating the community is one of our most important platforms. Our market plan addresses all segments that are part of this installation. During the past two years we have implemented the market plan as shown below. We continue to improve our plan so that we can target all aspects of this most important program. We are open for any suggestions in educating our community. These are some of the ways we have publicized and educated the community in FY06 & 07:

FY06

a. Earth Day Jamboree and Easter Egg Hunt (Article in the Post Leader

b. Grinding the Green (Article in the Post Leader & Mayors Meeting)

c. Telephone Book Exchange (Just for Units & Activities)

d. We had 4 additional articles in the Post Leader for FY06)

e. Curbside Pilot Program (Mayors Meeting, Information Exchange Council & the Post Leader)

f. Newcomers Briefing

g. Information Exchange Council

h. Mayors Meeting

FY07

a. Brief the CG/GC 23 July 07

b. Brief family housing personnel 16 Jan 07

c. Brief Mayors on Program 19 Jan& 16 May 07

d. Brief IEC members 14 Feb 07

e. Articles in the Leader 24 May & 19 Jul 07

f. Recycling slogan contest 14 May 07

g. Letter from the GC past out 24 May 07

h. Door hangers in housing area 6 Jul 07

i. Passing out info and recycle containers 28 Jun 07

j. Mayors newsletter 5 Jul 07

Conclusion: We champion any comments and suggestions that can improve our ability to provide the necessary information to the Fort Jackson community because we all must be part of universal recycling.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 14: DLE Work Orders

The Combat Indoctrination Committee submits numerous work orders to DLE for work needed. These work orders are completed 55% of the time. We have learned that some work orders are declined or cancelled without feedback from DLE. We list points of contact on every work order submitted, so that we can be contacted of cancellation and reason.

Recommendation: Use the contact number if there are any questions or problems that can be fixed prior to cancellation of work orders.

Response: All work orders that cancelled or declined have information written on the work order. If a work order is canceled due to work being performed by PM team it will indicate same. There are a number of work orders that are unfunded and waiting approval. DLE has recently changed the reporting comment to have “UFR” indicated on the report that is provided to the customs each Thursday. If additional information is requested for a specific project Mrs. Alexander (5926) can provide status. POC’s on work orders are regularly NOT available or the POC has changed.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 15: Main PX Handicap Parking

The spaces for handicapped parking at the Main PX are always full, and hard to get from the lot to the store, for handicapped patrons.

Recommendation: Make the parking spaces located to the south of the Garden Center handicapped spaces. Make the Garden Center entrance available to handicapped patrons.

Response: Currently the AAFES PX manager stated it is standard practice during family and graduation day for patrons to use the garden shop entrance and she doesn’t currently have a problem with the usage. DLE is available to provide support and assistance but it is ultimately the decision of the AAFES PX Manager to make this decision.

Update: DLE recently installed 2 no parking signs and 2 handicap drop-off signs at the Main PX to improve some of the parking lot congestion and restraints of the Main PX

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 16: Bldg 12000 Maintenance

Building 12000, F Company has a leaky roof. The roof leaks onto the Air Conditioning unit and needs to be repaired.

Recommendation: Rebuild the whole piping on the building.

Response: The holes in the hot water piping in the building have been identified as the source of the leak. The DLE has placed a work order requesting the design of the project. This project has been placed on the PPL to compete for funding on the FY 08 list.

Update: The contractor is currently replacing the roof and should be finished before 24 Dec 2007.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 17: Lee Road Shoppette Parking Lot

There are large pot holes in the parking lot of the Lee Road Shoppette. This creates hazardous driving conditions within the parking lot.

Recommendation: Fill in the holes and level the surfaces at the Lee Road Shopette.

Response: A contract for road repair has been submitted to DOC and should be awarded by 1 Oct 07.

Update: DLE maintenance recently made a service call to the Lee Road Shoppette and found no pot holes. They also talked to the Manager who was satisfied with the service. DLE will continue to monitor this situation either in house or with the contract awarded on 28 September 2007.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 18: Fort Jackson Roads

The roads on Fort Jackson are in need of repair. There are pot holes on several streets that can cause damage to both military and personal vehicles.

Recommendation: Correct pot holes and curbs.

Response: A contract for road repair has been submitted to DOC. and should be awarded by 1 Oct 07.

Update: The contract was awarded on 28 Sep 2007 and has been funded at $50K. Pot holes will be fixed during the second qtr.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 19: Gate 4/Boyden Arbor Army Reserve Center Parking

There are insufficient numbers of parking spaces during battle assembly. This causes unsafe parking on Boyden Arbor Road. This is a safety issue that restricts the access of emergency vehicles.

Recommendation:

• Expand the parking lot into the woods behind the Reserve Center.
• Add a parking lot across the street from the Reserve Center.

Response: Gravel was placed behind the parking lot to provide a better parking surface approximately five years ago. Grass and dirt has since covered this surface. We will do cost analysis from proper contracting areas and submit to the Garrison Commander for approval.

Update: DLE is in the process of obtaining crush and run (gravel) behind the Boyden Arbor Reserve Center to once again help alleviate this problem. DLE is currently working to design a plan to move the Security Checkpoint at Gate 4 across the street and returning the entire parking lot to the Reserve Center.

Update: The crush and run is now available and DLE will schedule the expansion to occur during block leave in December.

Status: Complete (AFAP – 2^nd Qtr FY 07)

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DIRECTORATE OF MORALE, WELFARE AND RECREATION (MWR)

Issue 1: Pricing at the Solomon Center (CAC)

Current pricing at the Solomon Center is based on Active Duty & Family Members, Retirees and Government Civilian Employees. There is no pricing for over 62 years of age and on a fixed income.

Recommendation: Reduce pricing for those 62 and older.

Response: Andy’s Fitness Center’s pricing is set in accordance with the Army Regulation 215-1. The regulation does not permit special discounts or prices that are not available to all patrons. Currently Andy’s Fitness Center’s prices are lower than other off post businesses and fees have not been raised in several years. In addition to Andy’s, MWR offers three other fitness centers and an indoor pool at no cost to eligible patrons. MWR has recently upgraded all of the fitness centers with new strength equipment and cardiovascular machines.

Status: Complete (Surviving Spouses Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 2: Meeting place for Gold Star Wives

Previously the Gold Star Wives were allowed to meet at the Bowling Alley without issue. Currently it is a hit and miss situation as the room was configured to accommodate video games. This impacts the Gold Star Wives in determining where they will meet, arranging transportation and the time. They have met off post but this has been an inconvenience as they would do there shopping while on Fort Jackson.

Recommendation: Establish a meeting place on Fort Jackson that allows them to conduct monthly meetings without the concern about moving or cancellation.

Response: The Gold Wives can continue to meet at Century Lanes Bowling Facility as long as the conference room remains available for use.

Status: Complete (Surviving Spouses Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 3: Childcare on post does not accommodate Active Duty Soldiers.

When most Soldiers have to be to formation by 0530 and day care doesn’t open until 0515, it is hard to make it on time. Your child is sent home for illness they don’t have i.e. running noses. What can you do about a runny nose? The price is so high; it is cheaper to put my son in private school than to enroll him on post.

Recommendation: Look at the hours and the cost of childcare. It needs to be a little more lenient in sending kids home that have colds, and they have to stay out for 24 hours.

Response: (Previously submitted 4^th Qtr FY 04))

The Child & Youth Services Program at Fort Jackson provides 13 1/4 hours of care daily available in facility based programs and round the clock care available through the Family Child Care program. Per Army regulation, children needing care more than 12 hours per day should be accommodated in Family Child Care homes that have an Extended Hours certification. Individuals needing care in support of their mission requirements should contact the Central Enrollment Office at 751-485 for assistance in locating care. The Hood Street Child Development Center is available for Special Openings in support of unit functions/meetings. For more information on special openings, contact the Hood Street Child Development Center at 751-1972. In addition, Child & Youth Services is currently working on a new initiative - a child development group home. The group home would be located on Parker Lane in housing and could potentially operate 24/7 depending on sufficient demand from the community for extended hours care. The home would be staffed with NAF employees and receive oversight from the management staff at the Hood Street Child Development Center. The community will be surveyed during October to determine potential operating hours. Currently, we are waiting on renovations to the quarters to meet the criteria for operating the home. The projected date for operation has not been set at this point. For additional information contact the Director, Child & Youth Services at 751-1672.

Status: Complete (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 4: Youth Sports

There is an extreme lack of participation in youth sports. There are so few kids that the same two teams played each other every week.

Recommendation: Increase the age limit for Sports and Cheerleading from 15 to 18.

Response: Participation in Youth Sports is at a historically low level due primarily to the low housing occupancy rate. Youth Sports staff is inviting off post youth organizations to participate with Fort Jackson to eliminate the issue of two teams having to play one another week after week. Basketball and cheerleading are both open to 15 to 18 year olds; however, at this age level it is difficult to field teams due to low participation. It would be inappropriate to mix these youth with the younger age groups as the recommended age span for youth sports is 2-3 years.

Status: Complete (Civilian Employee Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 5: Sport program (Intramurals)

Currently there is a very active Men’s Intramural Sports Program on Fort Jackson. However, there is no Intramural Sports Program for Women.

Recommendation: Implement and publicize an Intramural Sports Program for Women.

Response: MWR Sports has offered women’s sports in the past, but were discontinued because of lack of interest. Fort Jackson does not have enough females interested to form all female teams and leagues. Currently the females on Post participate with the males in both unit sports and recreational sports.

Status: Complete (Civilian Employee Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 6: Organization Days

Almost every unit on the installation has an Organization Day. Some of the units hold their Organization Day activities away from the installation.

Recommendation:

• Combine some units to have the same Organization Day.
• Utilize facilities on Fort Jackson such as the Water Park.

Response: The Water Park at Fort Jackson is available for groups and Unit Organizational days. Last year the Water Park hosted Unit parties and private parties. The Aquatics branch will start booking groups for the 2007 summer in January; call 751-4796 for additional information and group rates. Many units already conduct their Organizational Days at Weston Lake, Twin Lakes or Heise Pond Alpine Lodge. Currently, official unit organizational days receive a 50% discount off the already low prices on facility reservations at the Weston Lake, Twin Lakes and Heise Pond locations.

Status: Complete (Civilian Employee Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 7: There are only 3 days per month that a child enrolled in YS can use for Open Recreation.

Recommendation: Allow children enrolled in YS, which have paid a fee for enrollment, to use the center after 1500 without limitation.

Response: The CYS Fee policy does not allow use of the Youth Center after 1500 without limitation for children in grades 1 through 5 because of conflicts with other program users. We do provide 5-10 free hours per month. At Fort Jackson, we provide the following: 3 free afternoons per month and weekly participation in a 4-H Club at no additional cost over the CYS registration fee. Youth in Middle School may use the Middle School After School Program on Parker Lane after 1500 without limitation and teens may use the Youth Center after 1500 without limitation.

Status: Complete (Civilian Employee Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 8: Post Newcomer Tours

Newcomers to Fort Jackson should be given a tour of the installation in order to make their transition easier. Soldiers, Family Members, and Civilians being assigned to Fort Jackson may not know where all facilities are located and authorized for use.

Recommendation: Provide a Newcomer Tour as part of the Newcomer Brief.

Response: Tours of the post were offered for a number of years in conjunction with the Post Newcomer's Orientation. On average, attendance/participation was very low. The current Newcomer's Orientation offers information and maps and the area with which the Soldiers and families need to be familiar with is fairly small. If individuals desire to visit specific facilities, we will assist them in setting up a tour of those facilities at a later date.

Status: Complete (Family Member Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 9: Weekend Childcare at Gymnasiums

There is not childcare available on Post for those who work out at gyms on the weekends.

Recommendation: Provide child care use for those that go to the gym on the weekend. This could be at the CDC or possibly at the Solomon Center.

Response: Providing child care for individuals using the gymnasium can be supported by an opening of the CDC for individuals using any gym on post or for patrons of the Solomon Center Fitness Center on site if there are enough community members willing to commit to using the care at the same time on a regular basis. CRD is in the process of conducting a survey to see how many patrons would be willing to pay for hourly care during the weekends. The School Age Services Program, and Middle School and Teen programs offer after school and weekend hours for registered members 1^st through 12^th grades.

Status: Complete (Family Member Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 10: Teen Center

There needs to be a facility for Teen dependants (age 13 to 19) that is opened for after-school until curfew hours during the week and weekend to help Teens to stay out of trouble.

Recommendation: Provide a center geared specifically for Teens under the guidance of a Staff Member. There should be user fees and ID provided. It should also provide games, homework center, TV/Movie area, basketball and a skateboard park. Recommend you could model Teen Center after the one on Fort Polk and follow the Character Counts doctrine.

Response: The current teen population on Fort Jackson is at an all time low and it would not be sufficient to justify facility expansion. The Youth Center provides open recreation for teens during the week and on the weekend. While the entire facility is not dedicated to teens, there is a large multi-purpose room dedicated to teens and there are times when the entire facility is dedicated to teens. Current after school operating hours are from school out to 9:00 pm on Monday through Thursday and school out to 10:00 pm on Friday. On Saturday, the center operates from 1:00 pm to 10:00 pm and on Sunday from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

Status: Complete (Family Member Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 11: Hunting/Fishing Permits

In order to hunt on Fort Jackson, you must pay for a state license and then pay for an installation license. Understand this is used to offset maintenance cost however could there be another way of obtaining funding through MWR?

Recommendation: Eliminate the cost of the installation permit. Still require the installation permit, at no cost, so the installation is aware of those hunting and fishing.

Response: By regulation, the fees, collected from permits, go to the DLE wildlife section minus a small portion that is returned to MWR for the sale of the license, and printing of materials; specifically, permits and the regulation booklets we provide every hunter. The fees that go to DLE are utilized to help in many wildlife projects across the installation including the development of food plots and planting of fields, trapping of beaver, stocking grass carp in an effort to ensure the balance between plant and fish in our training area lakes and ponds, to building waterfowl habitat and to many other projects most of our hunters are not aware of.

Status: Complete (Family Member Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 12: Weston Lake Fees

Fees are charged for usage of Weston Lake. Yet unable to use the benefit as in not being able to swim at the facility due to no lake qualified lifeguard.

Recommendation:

• Ensure a trained and qualified lifeguard is on hand during hours of operation.
• If short lifeguards publicize information for hiring action through family member channels.

Response: Fees are generally only collected at the gate at Weston Lake on days when lifeguards are on duty. Historically high schools in South Carolina have returned to classes in late August. The past 2 years, the return date has steadily moved up in the month, this year they began classes throughout much of the state on the 8^th of August. As a huge portion of the lifeguard population installation wide is made up of students enrolled in High School this put us at a serious disadvantage. Once school started many students began sports and other extracurricular activities which precluded them from working as lifeguards. We chose to utilize the remaining guards we had to keep Palmetto Falls Water Park open first and foremost instead of transferring any of their guards to cover our shortage. However, we were able to open the Weston Lake beach for most of the weekend days that had prepaid large groups in attendance. We anticipate that with the later return of students at the end of the 2007 summer break, proposed for Richland District One on 20 August, that we will be able to better staff the lake longer into the season without as many missed days as this previous season. Lifeguard positions have been an open continuous posting within CPO for several years now and aquatics is always in a bind for lifeguards in August and September. We will happily announce, through family member channels, any need for lifeguards in the future.

Status: Complete (Family Member Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 13: Bathroom facilities needed at Semmes Lake Recreation area (also at Solomon Center Playground).

Recommendation: Place porta-potties at above locations. With new picnic sheds and high traffic on Thursday/Friday, there needs to be sanitary facilities.

Response: Utility work is already underway to install two new full service restrooms at Patriot's Park Solomon and Patriot's Park Semmes. Projects are slated to be completed by the end of January.

Update: Projects have been completed.

Status: Complete (Civilian Employee Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 14: Marking of Palmetto Trail

Recommendation: Improve the marking of the trail. The trailhead at Gate 1 is identified, but it is not clear where the trail runs from there past the golf course.

Response: The Palmetto Trail falls under the control of the Palmetto Conservation Foundation. They are aware of the issue and have plans to update the kiosks associated with the trail on Fort Jackson as well as place out more trail markers. If you are interested in helping or would like more information about the Palmetto Trail please contact Nancy at the Palmetto Conservation at (803) 771-0870 or visit their website at http://palmettoconservation.org/index.php

Status: Complete (Civilian Employee Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 15: No availability in the Guest House when you are PCS’ing. Recommendation: Better sponsorship program for incoming soldier to get the guest house reservation.

Response: Advise PCS families during in/out processing briefings to make reservations in advance by calling toll free 1-800-GO-ARMY1/1-800-276-6984 or (803) 782-9802 to guarantee lodging availability.

Status: Complete (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 16: Child-Friendly Gyms

There are no child friendly gyms on post. There are a lot of busy parents of young children at Fort Jackson with no one to watch their children when they want to go to the gym. This creates a burden on the family member which then creates a burden on the Soldier.

Recommendation: Renovate a gym on post so that each room has a gated section with a play area and playpens for young children. This would allow parents to watch their own child as they work out.

Response: On-site child care is governed by AR 608-10, Child Development Services. While the requirements for providing on-site child care are not as stringent as those required for operating a child development center, they do not allow setting up a child care space in a facility without adult supervision. The requirements for on-site child care include facility/space approval by the Safety Office, Fire Department, and Health Consultant and oversight by the installation Child & Youth Services Program. Fort Jackson attempted unsuccessfully to provide child care in Perez Fitness Center and the Solomon Center. With regard to the Solomon Center, parents were unwilling to pay for the services or consider an increase in Fitness Center fees to offset the cost of providing the services. In Perez Fitness Center, child care was arranged and paid for by parents using the services, however, after a few months, parents no longer wanted to commit to using the services since it required them to schedule their time at the Fitness Center, so the services were discontinued. The Hood Street Child Development Center provides hourly care for the installation from 0730-1730, Monday through Friday. If sufficient demand exists for extended operating hours, a change in operating hours can be considered. However, during the 2006 survey for child care operating hours, there was insufficient demand (a minimum of 10 children on a regular basis) to support opening the program longer.

Status: Complete (2^nd Qtr FY 07)

Issue 17: Daycare on Fort Jackson

Soldiers and Family Members on Fort Jackson are in a constant quandary in reference to childcare. The Child Development Centers (CDCs) are often full. This affects the Fort Jackson community-at-large due to the fact that they have to be on long waiting lists to secure childcare.

Recommendation: Build a daycare center that can accommodate a greater number of children.

Response: The Scales Avenue CDC and Family Child Care Program provide full and part day child care for the Fort Jackson community. Until recently, we have not had an immediate demand waiting list for care. Our only waiting list for care at the current time is for full day and part day care for children under two years of age. We are continuing to recruit for Family Child Care providers to help eliminate the waiting list for care for children less than two years of age. If, however, the demand for care increases beyond our capability, CYS management staff will pursue additional space for our kindergarten age children and convert the space in the Child Development Center to provide care for younger children or initiate paperwork to request an additional child care facility for the Fort Jackson community. The Hood Street CDC and Family Child Care Program provide hourly child care for the Fort Jackson community. Within the last few months, we have been unable to accept reservations for all available spaces at the Hood Street CDC due to a staffing shortage. We anticipate that this situation will resolve within the next six - eight weeks. However, there may still be peak periods of time when it is difficult to get a reservation. For example, the prime hours requested are 0900 to 1200, and the busiest day is Thursday. CYS staff is now monitoring the number of individuals that cannot receive reservations for their desired time and date to document the demand and look at other ways of meeting the need for care at peak times. In the meantime, the Hood Street CDC staff will continue to refer parents to one of the four FCC homes that provides hourly care and to the Scales Avenue CDC for care in vacant full or part day spaces. Parents can help with the situation by scheduling their activities for non peak times and days, when possible.

Status: Complete (2^nd Qtr FY 07)

Issue 18: Hours of Daycare on Fort Jackson

Soldiers on Fort Jackson are in a constant quandary in reference to childcare. The hours of the CDC’s are not conducive to a Soldiers mission (i.e. field exercises). This affects the mission because the Soldier is constantly watching the clock.

Recommendation: Build a daycare center that can accommodate children for a longer period of time.

Response: The Scales Avenue CDC and the School Age Services Program both operate from 0515 to 1830, daily, Monday through Friday. We understand that these operating hours may not meet the needs of all Soldiers. However, the demand for extended hours has never been sufficient to warrant opening a large facility (minimum of 10 regular users on a regular basis per AR 608-10). We currently have three Family Child Care providers who are willing to provide extended hours and overnight care, have recently completed the training requirements to do so, and we anticipate that they will be certified to do so by the second week of May 2007. In addition, we operate child development homes on the installation that provide care from 0400 - 2100, Monday through Friday, and 0500 - 1800 on Saturday. We are working on preparing a third set of quarters for use as a child development home and will open for extended hours if sufficient demand exists. We anticipate that the home will be ready for use by 1 Jun 07. Soldiers with unresolved child care issues should contact Child & Youth Services, 751-4869, for assistance in finding care to meet their needs.

Status: Complete (2nd Qtr FY 07)

Issue 19: Pets in Guest Housing

Fort Jackson does not accommodate Soldiers PCSing with pets. Pet owners must pay out-of-pocket due to non-availability. Some PCSing Soldiers abandon pets which increases the number of stray pets which is detrimental to the health of Soldiers and Families.

Recommendation:

• Provide statements of Non-availability for pet owners to stay off-post.
• Provide a kennel on Post
• Enforce local pet registration procedures by including the Veterinary Clinic on the In/Out Processing checklist.

Response: Army lodging policy does not authorize Certificates of Non-availability because of pet issues. Once Palmetto Lodge renovation is completed (on or about 1 Jun 07), there will be four pet rooms available for guests with pet accommodation needs.

Update: Anticipated completion date has been pushed back to late August 2007.

Status: Complete (2^nd Qtr FY 07)

Issue 20: Do-It Yourself Framing Center

The post could use a Do-It yourself framing and matting center. Although there is a framing and matting location in the Solomon Center, the price is very expensive. It has driven soldiers to find the same service off post to save money. A Do-It yourself shop could save Soldiers, Retirees, and Family Members money.

Recommendation: Open a Do-It Yourself Center in the Solomon Center; locate it near the existing frame shop.

Response: Beginning September 07 the Frame Shop will offer matting and framing classes the second Saturday every month. Classes will be from 1000-1200 and will offer beginning instruction and safety certification on equipment usage. Registration is required. Class fee $30.00. After patrons complete the class they will be able to use the Frame Shop to work on their projects.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 21: Professional Reading Titles at Post Library

There are no professional reading titles at the Post Library. Having titles from the CSA professional reading list would be beneficial for the library, and may bring in additional users if these titles were available.

Recommendation: Fund the purchase of professional reading titles at the Post Library. Use the CSA professional reading list as a baseline.

Response: The Fort Jackson Morale, Welfare and Recreation Post Library program offers thousands of books that have been designated as part of the Professional Soldiers Collection. A spot check of 1100 titles currently available in the 355-356 subject area (Army History) found over 750 titles designated PSC (68% of this area). Titles from the CSA professional reading list have been identified as such, and bookmarks of those holdings are available. These are marketed by FMWRC and the Army Library Program. The list can be found by visiting the following web sites: www.armymwr.com or www.libraries.army.mil. The Post Library does use the list as a baseline and owns copies of each title on the CSA Professional Reading List. An annotated bibliography of these titles is available that is updated yearly by the Librarian. A book display of these titles is gathered for public viewing and use yearly as well. Thank you for the opportunity to answer this question and the offer for additional funding as such. As you can see, in this particular area no additional funding is needed here at the Post Library.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 22: Drill Sergeant Family Member Counseling

Drill Sergeants and their Family Members are not receiving the counseling necessary to maintain a healthy family unit. This has created a breakdown in family communication and added stress for the DS and family member. This may lead to a higher divorce rate, increased family violence, infidelity, child neglect, and spousal neglect (emotional, mental and physical).

Recommendation:

• Quarterly/Monthly counseling (in a group setting or on a family by family basis)
• Support Group for Drill Sergeant Family Members
• Support Groups/Counseling for children

Response: Per IAC: Forwarded to ACS and MEDDAC for action.

Update: ACS Family Advocacy is open to and will pursue the idea of starting a Drill Sergeant Family Members support group. POC: Annette McLeod, 6348 ACS does not provide counseling for Drill Sergeant Family Members (adults or children) however we recommend they be referred to the hospital's Social Work services division as they have licensed social workers who are able to provide counseling or that these Families be given the Military One Source 1-800 number & web site. Military One Source has the capability to contract with local licensed psychologists, therapists, & other professionals & they will pay for up to 6 individual counseling sessions per family member. All active duty Soldiers & dependents are eligible for this FREE service.

ACS Family Advocacy is responsible for the New Parent Support Program (NPSP) & this program does offer different activities for children up to the age of 5 & their parents. These activities are open to all of the FJ community to include Drill Sergeant Family Members. POC is Annette McLeod, FAP Manager

(751-6348)

ACS also has a support group for Soldiers who have Exceptional Family Members (EFM) & this group meets once a month. Drill Sergeant spouses who have EFM needs or children with EFM needs are welcome to join. POC for this group is Cheryl Jackson at 751-5256

Status: Complete (Drill SGT Spouse Focus Group) (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 23: Entertainment for Teens

There is currently no live entertainment available for Teenagers on Fort Jackson.

Recommendation:

Recommend the Installation provide entertainment options such as listed below:

· Pretty Ricky, B5, Green Day, Lincoln Park, and Fallout Boys etc…

· NCO Club, Officers Club, CAC are all possible locations to hold events to include outdoor

· Skate and bowling night

· Open microphone (mic) night for creative speaking, poetry and creative dance

· Three on three sporting event, request sponsorship

Response: While bringing some form of live entertainment to Fort Jackson might be feasible, the actual cost of bringing name bands to Fort Jackson is cost-prohibitive. Booking national acts cost 25K to 300K. This does not include the cost of staging, sound and lights which is generally an additional 25K. Other expenses such as catering, transportation, etc. would add up to another 10K to 25K. The Middle School/Teen Director will monitor the concert calendars from local concert venues such as the Township Auditorium, Koger and Colonial Centers and based on interest from the Teen Council coordinate and sponsor a teen outing to the local events. Future events will be advertised through the Leader, on the MWR website and through flyers at off post high schools with high military Family member presence. Other options suggested such as teen skate nights, three on three sporting events, teen bowling nights and open mic nights will be added to the teen event calendar and marketed through The Leader, door to door flyers, MWR website and posting at off post schools.

Status: Complete (Teen Focus Group) (4^th Qtr FY07)

Issue 24: Marketing Youth Service Programs

Currently Youth Service Programs are not marketed adequately. Not many Teens know of any programs or events that are taking place on the base, and therefore are unable to utilize the programs.

Recommendation:

· Hand out information door to door in Fort Jackson housing

· Use the housing office to determine teenage populated areas

· Youth Services personnel or Teen POC should attend pre-mayor meetings monthly

· Request funding to advertise in local newspapers for off-post population

· More advertising in middle and high schools

· Determine the best route to provide mailing to off-post teens

· Have Youth Services or Teen POC brief the Installation Command Sergeants Majors as a group.

· Obtain Radio advertising

· Develop a distribution list for off-post Teens

Response: A representative from the Middle School & Teen program will attend monthly pre-Mayor meetings and make arrangements to brief the Installation Command Sergeants Majors group to address items of interest for youth. Marketing of programs will be increased through monthly Leader articles/ads, flyers distributed though housing, the MWR webpage, and the Information Exchange Council meetings. The School Liaison Officer will distribute materials through the Student 2 Student program at the local high schools as well as take information to local middle schools. SLO and MS/Teen Director will identify a student volunteer from each school to post items of interest for military youth on school bulletin boards. Other initiatives such as radio advertisement, newspaper advertisement and mass mailings are currently cost prohibitive but will be considered if funding can be obtained.

Status: Complete (Teen Focus Group) (4^th Qtr FY07)

Issue 25: More Space for High School Recreation

Currently, the high school shares space in one building with SAS, teen and middle school programs. This space is extremely crowded and does not offer the high school age children the opportunities that could be afforded to them if they had their own space. In accordance with AR 215-1, Para 8-23 activities for school age children (ages 6-12) and teens (ages 13-18) are generally conducted separately. Also see HQDA Issue #413 in the completed section.

Recommendation:

· Provide separate recreation space for high school students

· Expand current facilities

· Shuttle busses to take teens to separate facility

· Construct a new facility

· Follow up with the request for “Hood Street Elementary”

Response: In 2000, CYS submitted a DD1391 for a Major Construction project for a 16,000 square foot addition to the Youth Center. The intent of the addition was to provide a separate wing of the facility for school age youth, grades 1 through 5, and middle school and high school youth. Due to funding constraints our project keeps getting moved into the out years. Child & Youth Services continues to request additional space for programming to include the future use of the Hood Street School but does not compete well against mission requirements. However, CYS will submit a second request and justification. While we have not been able to provide a separate facility for high school students, we do meet the intent of AR 215-1, para 8-23 by providing designated areas specifically for teens in the Youth Center as well as separate activity programming. In fact, the Middle School House on Parker Lane was opened to provide high school youth a dedicated space during the weekday afternoon hours. Child & Youth Services is not currently funded to provide transportation. While we have set aside some of our programming dollars to support the transportation that we currently provide for school drop off and pick up, and future plans to pick up middle school and high school youth from off post locations on Saturdays, operating a shuttle service would not be feasible and would have to be offset by cuts in the very program services that teens would use. The Teen Program can and will increase the number of off site trips and activities for high school youth and will provide transportation for those scheduled events with sufficient interest. Youth interested in being involved in selecting and planning activities should register with Child & Youth Services and voice their ideas at the Teen Council. Registration fees for Child & Youth Services are now waived under the Army Family Covenant.

Status: Complete (Teen Focus Group) (4^th Qtr FY07)

Issue 26: Repair/Replace Equipment for Teen

The equipment at the Youth Center for Teens is either in need of repair or replacement. Teens are unable to use this equipment, thus limiting the activities that they are allowed to participate in due to lack of useable equipment.

Recommendation:

Repair/Replace the following equipment for Teen use:

· Skates in storage room at youth center

· Basketballs

· Laser Tag House (PMCS of equipment)

· Basketball goals and courts (outdoor)

· Replace furniture at the youth center

· Replace TVs

· Dedicated sound system (dance) for Teen room

Response: Middle School &Teen staff inventoried equipment and developed a list of teen requested items for procurement and items needing replacement. The following equipment has been repaired or replaced since the teen focus group and is currently available for use by the teen program: skates, basketballs, additional video game consoles and games, stereo system for the teen room, home theater system, DDR (Dance Dance Revolution) combination system (game & dance pads) and a new television (32" LCD HDTV for game competitions and movie night). The teen room carpet will be replaced during December 2007. Additional equipment being repaired for future use includes the Juke Box and a speaker from the DJ Equipment. Some work has been completed on the outdoor basketball goals and court with more pending. The Middle School/Teen Director is coordinating with MWR Services Division to determine the condition of the Lazer Tag equipment and if it is economically feasible to repair. Funding is not currently available to replace the teen center furniture but it has been identified as an unfunded requirement and will be replaced should additional funding become available.

Status: Complete (Teen Focus Group) (4^th Qtr FY07)

Issue 27: Child and Youth Service Registration Fees

Customers pay an annual rate for CYS regardless of actual time used. Visiting family members are required to pay the same registration fee as someone who is stationed here permanently. Customers are hesitant to enroll because it is not cost effective for short term use.

Recommendation: Prorate or establish separate fees for short-term usage.

Response: As part of the Army Family Covenant, the CYS Registration Fee has been waived for all eligible patrons effective 29 November 2007.

Status: Complete (AFAP – 2^nd Qtr FY 07)

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DIRECTORATE OF PLANS TRAINING MOBILIZATION AND SECURITY (DPTMS)

Issue 1: Operations support during non-duty working hours.

Some employees work during “not-duty” hours (other than 0800-1700). During that time, should assistance be required with computers, vehicles, etc…there is no one to contact.

Recommendation: Alert all employees (especially those that work during “non-duty” hours) where to go or who to contact for assistance.

Response: Soldiers, DoD civilians or Contractors experiencing computer issues after regular duty hours can contact the Installation Operations Center at 751-5166/5167 and they will then contact the On-Call DOIM representative. The DOIM representative will then coordinate directly with the party in need to resolve the issue. Should you need help with a vehicle after hours you can contact the Installation Operations Center (IOC) at 751-5166/5167 and they will notify the DLE wrecker service point of contact. The IOC is responsible for processing and coordinating all after duty hours emergency work orders. Please keep in mind this would be only for a military or GSA vehicle issued through the installation Transportation Motor Pool (TMP). Work orders involving on post buildings/housing will be handled after duty hours only in emergency situations. Otherwise they will be deferred until regular duty hours.

Status: Complete (Civilian Employee Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 2: Ride Sharing

Recommendation: Create a ride share bulletin board (possibly DOIM) where soldiers and civilians can post information concerning their desire to find others with which to share rides to save money and reduce air pollution on the installation.

Response: Great Idea! Will share this idea with DOIM and PAO for possible posting of this information either on a Web site or in THE LEADER newspaper.

Update: Historically, given the traffic flow and patterns in the metro area, ride sharing and the use of public transportation has not been embraced.

Status: Complete (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 3: Building numbers and Road signage.

All buildings need visible building numbers and all roads need correct signage. Recommendation:

• Ensure that all building numbers are correct and visible.
• Remove “Forrest” street signs from post – named for a man who started KKK.

Response:

1) The proper process to replace any sign on the installation with either numbers or letters is to submit a DA 4283 to building 2601 Sign Shop (DLE) to request a replacement or new sign. The POC is Mr. Troy phone # 751-7268.

DLE welcomes the support of all agencies in the identification of faded signs or worn numbers on their buildings.

2) The FJ Museum is conducting detailed research to confirm the specific reason for the naming of “Forrest Drive”. Initial indications depict that the street was indeed named after Gen Nathan Bedford Forrest who was an apparent early leader of the KKK. A working group is being formed to consider Courses of Action for resolution of this issue.

Update (Apr 07): The GIS data layers and all maps to be printed from here forward will have "Forest Drive" on them. There are four signs currently in the cantonment area. Three of which read "Forrest Drive" and one that reads "Forest Drive." The three "Forrest Drive" signs will be corrected to "Forest Drive".

Status: Complete (Civilian Employee Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 4: Post Historian

Fort Jackson is the only installation that does not have a Post Historian. There are several issues that would be easily resolved if an historian would be made available!

Recommendation: Hire a Post Historian.

Response: We will not hire a Post Historian due to lack of funds and not enough workload to warrant this position.

Update: Per the GC the museum curator is now designated as the Post Historian.

Status: Complete (3^rd Qtr FY 07)

Issue 5: Information for Mobilized Soldiers

Lack of housing and lodging information. Mobilized Soldiers are not being informed of housing/lodging options. Affects the Soldier and mission by not having a place to stay.

Recommendation:

• Official briefing on housing/lodging process during in-processing.
• Provide adequate on/off post temporary lodging within Per Diem
• Provide permanent quality housing for mobilized Soldiers.

Response: The only Soldiers we house on Post are E5’s and below (Single Soldier Complex), with the exception of E5’s who we do not have a suite available for in SSC. If there is not a suite available in the SSC, the E5 is housed in Jack’s Inn, where they pay for quarters with per diem like the E6’s and above who live off post. We do not move these E5’s, once they are situated in Jack’s Inn (MWR Facility). We do provide a housing brief to all mobilized soldiers. We provide information on the two major companies that provide fully furnished apartments for our Soldiers and they get to go out and pick what they like, wherever they like.

Status: Complete (Soldier’s Focus Group) (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 6: CPL Freddie Stowers Complex

The CPL Freddie Stowers complex was built on post to honor a South Carolinian who earned the Medal of Honor (MOH) in WWI. He was the only African-American to earn this distinction during the War to End All Wars and he did his Basic Training here at Fort Jackson. Currently no State historic marker exists to honor the man and his heroism.

Recommendation: Apply for a State historical marker to be submitted to recognize the historic contributions made by CPL Stowers. Locate it so that it would put the buildings named after him into context.

Response: Have initiated the process to try and get an historical marker to recognize CPL Freddie Stowers.

Update: Have submitted a request to the SC Historical Marker Program. We are awaiting their review and response.

Update: Packet was resubmitted to the SC Historical Marker Program. Cost for the marker will range from $300 - $1000.

Update (May 08): Marker is currently being made; completion date is undetermined at this time.

Update (Aug 08): Marker is on the list for fabrication but there is some backlog; completion date still undetermined.

Update (Dec 08): There is currently a marker in the area that portrays the historical value of the building.

Status: Complete (3^rd Qtr FY 07)

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DIRECTORATE OF RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

Issue 1: Government Credit Cards

Mobilized soldiers are required to front rent money and submit a travel voucher 30 days later, then wait 20 – 30 days to get paid. This process takes 60 days to get paid for a mobilized soldier. He has to come out of pocket up to $4000 with only a $2000 return. This process puts the soldier delinquent 60 days. Bank of America will not allow a waiver for this delinquency.

Recommendation:

• Implement a system that Bank of America back dates mobilized soldiers at least 60 days.
• DFAS – implements a system to pay travel to mobilized solidiers within a 10 day period and correct a non-pay within 5 days.

Response: When Soldiers are mobilized to Fort Jackson they are offered a travel advance of at least 80% for lodging and meals. This amount is more than adequate to cover the first month’s rent and have monies left over. Soldiers who apply for an advance receive their monies within 7-10 days. There is no reason that a Soldier would have to come out of their pocket to front rent given the fact that once a Soldier arrives to in-process here at Fort Jackson they are provided with lodging up to 14 days so therefore they do not incur any expenses. The only way a Soldier is incurring a debt is if they have gone out and signed a lease before they have in-processed. NO ONE IS TO ENTER INTO A LEASE PRIOR TO COMPLETION OF IN-PROCESSING AND THEN ONLY E-6 AND ABOVE. Travel vouchers do not take 20-30 days to get paid. If a voucher is completed correctly and submitted through the proper channels mobilized Soldiers get paid within 7-10 days and in some cases, less than 5 days. DFAS has a policy in place that vouchers will be processed within 8 days of them being received.

DLE has made arrangements with Apartment and Corporate Relocation Services/800-538-0624 (ACRS) and Relocation Corporate Concepts (RCC) which are two agencies that provide lodging to our Soldiers. If our Soldiers are using these companies, there should not be any reason that they are running into 60 days delinquencies as these companies have agreed to work with us and they currently still do work with us. There should be no reason why a soldier would run 60 days behind, the most is 30 days and that is only contingent if they did not receive an advance when they arrived.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

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GARRISON

Issue 1: Wildcat Gate Road (Leesburg Road)

The Wildcat Road closed shortly after September 11, 2001. The distance to travel to an open gate is extremely inconvenient (Leesburg Road to Sparkleberry Road). This impacts drive time; money and wear and tear on vehicles.

Recommendation: Reopen Wildcat Road.

Response: Current funding prohibits re-opening Wildcat Gate. However, Fort Jackson was identified to receive 14 additional contract guards sometime in 2007 so this issue may be possible in the future.

Status: Complete (Surviving Spouses Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 2: Veteran Surviving Spouse Group

There is no Surviving Spouse Group for Disabled Veterans. There are a large number of spouses in need of a support group throughout the community. Without a support group it is very difficult to bring up issues pertaining to them and get answers form a single point of contact. (Response requested from Dorn VA Representative).

Recommendation:

• Establish a Disabled Veterans Surviving Spouse Group through Fort Jackson or the Veteran Administration.
• Publicize the group meetings and outcomes.

Response: (received from Dorn VA Representative)

For Blue Star Mothers:  the web address is www.bluestarmotherssc.com.  To contact them, you may email them at info@bluestarmotherssc.com or write them at PO Box 2364/Lexington, SC  29071.  I did not find a phone number on the website, but there’s a lot of information out there, and they seem to be pretty active in the Midlands.  For additional information about Blue Star Mothers, you can visit www.bluestarmothers.org.

Status: Complete (Surviving Spouses Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 3: Mistreatment of pets in the Housing areas

Residents have noted that some pets are being mistreated in the housing area playgrounds and common areas by children. This falls under cruelty to animals and should not be tolerated on a military installation.

Recommendation:

• Have the Garrison get the word out through the media that sponsors and family members can be held liable for this offense.
• Develop a reporting system that does not identify those reporting an incident.

Response: Anonymous reports of animal abuse may be made to the Provost Marshal. However those acts of abuse that are witnessed and have no visible signs or symptoms require a witness. Report any and all signs of animal abuse to the Provost Marshal’s Office. Law Enforcement personnel will respond and report any maltreatment of animals to the Garrison Chain of Command for action.

Status: Complete (Family Member Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 4: Ewell Road gate should be opened.

It would save a lot of gas and time in the mornings, lunch and evenings.

Recommendation: Re-open Ewell Road gate.

Response: Current funding prohibits re-opening Wildcat Gate. However, Fort Jackson was identified to receive 14 additional contract guards sometime in 2007 so this issue may be possible in the future.

Status: Complete (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 5: Flow of information/communication from top management to the lowest employee grade

All employees should have access to the same information.

Recommendation:

• Develop a distribution list that reaches all employees through email.
• Develop Web page containing Civilian Employee information and updates.
• Conduct Town Halls specifically for Civilian Employees.

Response: Effective communication is arguably the greatest challenge facing any organization as large and diverse as our Garrison. Ensuring that “all employees have access to the same information” is neither executable nor desirable. This amount of information sharing would prove unmanageable/unproductive. We would spend so much time sifting through “information” that no one would be able to accomplish the mission at hand. It is a full-time struggle to keep abreast of changing policies, technologies, and happenings relative to one’s individual scope of work. When we do try to disseminate information to all levels, a nightmare typically ensues. The JAG recently had to offer an incredible 25 different training sessions in order to reach 92% of the Fort Jackson workforce with Ethics instruction. We have employees who do not have access to a computer, employees without an AKO or email account, employees who work out of a truck, employees who work atypical shifts/hours, etc… With this being said, I know it is extremely frustrating not to receive actionable information in a timely manner.

Recommendation #1 – Develop a distribution list that reaches all employees through email. Not all employees have access to email, but those who do should be receiving general updates through C-S distribution. If an employee is not on the C-S distribution list, he or she should fall under someone who does. Information specific in nature (operational and/or functional) that does not come via C-S distribution should be addressed by the employee’s chain of responsibility. It is crucial that supervisors collect, consider, and disseminate pertinent information to all levels. If an individual feels that his/her supervisor is not providing essential information, then the individual should question the supervisor about it. If the response is not satisfactory, then the individual should raise the concern to the next level of responsibility. The Garrison Commander strongly supports an informed workforce. Questions or comments concerning C-S distribution should be forwarded to Tammy Cunningham at 751-2520.

Recommendation #2 – Develop a Web page containing Civilian Employee information and updates. Fort Jackson currently operates a community Web page (www.jackson.army.mil). The Web page contains a myriad of information tidbits, updates, and links to include a direct link to Civilian Personnel Online (CPOL). Employees without computer access can read the Leader (published weekly) for most of the same tidbits and updates. Questions or comments concerning the Fort Jackson Web page should be forwarded to webmaster@jackson.army.mil. Questions or comments concerning the Leader should be forwarded to fjleader@jackson.army.mil.

Recommendation #3 – Conduct Town Halls specifically for Civilian Employees. Up until very recently Fort Jackson hosted quarterly “open forum - everyone’s invited” town hall meetings. The meetings were poorly attended even with the allure of food, door prizes, special speakers, etc… Because of this lack of interest, the Garrison has decided to combine town halls with quarterly well-being action council meetings. The meetings are open to everyone and are advertised in the Leader. The next scheduled meeting is March 1^st at 1400 hrs in the Post Conference Room. Besides this quarterly opportunity to glean information and raise concerns, the Garrison hosts an annual Civilian Employee focus group each November and a Garrison Commander Address to the Workforce whenever the need arises. Questions or comments concerning the quarterly WBAC or annual Civilian Employee focus group should be forwarded to the Community FIRST Coordinator at 751-3425.

Status: Complete (Civilian Employee Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 6: Grass cutting for CYS on Parker Lane

The installation grass cutting contract is now suspended for the season. However, weeds continue to grow at CYS facilities on Parker Lane. Due to the fact that the buildings are under CYS control, grass is personally cut to keep the facility looking presentable for customers. Grass cutting is being accomplished by those employees of the CYS. This takes time from their normal duties not to mention their equipment.

Recommendation:

• Have the Garrison assign a unit to police the area as well as cut the grass.
• Hire a contract team to cut the grass.

Response: The CYS will be cut by the Post grass cutting contract per the Garrison CSM.

Status: Complete (Family Member Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 7: Shuttle Bus from Fort Jackson to Dorn VA Hospital

Parking limitations at Dorn VA has caused patients to miss or arrive late for appointments. Rescheduling missed appointments may take a month or more. This affects a large amount of Veterans who cannot afford to miss appointments.

Recommendation: Provide a shuttle bus from Fort Jackson to the Dorn VA, returning to Fort Jackson and publish a shuttle bus schedule.

Response: AR 58-1 Para 5-2 limits shuttle bus service to Active duty, DOD employees and DOD contractors for official business on the installation or between installations only. Retirees are not authorized official government transportation unless on invitational travel orders. AR 58-1 prohibits shuttle bus service solely for the usage of the passengers list below:

(a) Off duty military personnel or DOD employees

(b) Reserve and National Guard members

(c) Dependants of active duty personnel

(d) Retirees

Update: Issue submitted to Commanding General, not recommended for forwarding. CG’s disposition requested that we resolve parking issue with Dorn VA.

Update: DLE spoke with the Chief of Engineering at the VA Hospital. They don't believe they have a parking problem. The have built a 90 spot parking lot, they also furnish valet parking from the front door of the hospital. The parking lot is not being fully used because people don't want anyone to drive their cars. They have also built a new gravel parking lot in back of the hospital and have shuttles (golf carts) that transport people to and from the hospital. The shuttles have communication with the hospital and will pick up from any location.

Status: Complete (AFAP – 2^nd Qtr FY 07)

Issue 8: Combine Enlisted Spouses Association (ESA) and Officer and Civilian Spouses Club (OCSC)

OCSC and ESA need to combine. The clubs are not functioning like they should and perpetuating the separation of ranks is archaic. Spouses do not wear rank and shouldn’t be excluded from a club based on who we are married to.

Recommendation: Establish a Military and Civilian Spouse Club

Response: We have received formal requests signed by the ESA and OCSC leader. We are responding to that request informing them that their desires do not conflict with any other private organizations. If they choose to combine and as long as membership supports, we support.

Update: Garrison Commander directed that the club representatives be contacted for their decision.

Update (Sept 07): Action is currently in the process of being implemented.

Status: Complete (2^nd Qtr FY 07)

Issue 9: Drill Sergeant Family Members Uninformed

Upon entering Drill Sergeant duty, Family Members are unaware of the lifestyle changes/hardships that affect the entire family. Such as the long work hours and loss of personal and family time. Family team dynamics (bonding with children, interpersonal spouse relationships, and diminished family experience growth) is being lost as Family members are unaware of what to expect.

Recommendation: Implement integration briefings for newly assigned Family Members at Battalion level on at least a monthly basis. Provide incoming Drill Sergeant Families with the Drill information SGT video that is currently being used by AFTB.

Response: Forwarded to the Basic Combat Training Center of Excellence.

Update: The Basic Combat Training Center of Excellence stated that this is a leadership issue. This issue has been forwarded to the Deputy Commanding Officer (DCO).

Update: The DCO will discuss this issue with the BCT Chains of Command.

Status: Complete (Drill SGT Spouse Focus Group) (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 10: Family Readiness Groups (FRG’s) in BCT Battalions for the Cadre

Currently there are few FRG’s available within the BCT Battalions for Cadre Family Member support. Family Members are uninformed of training schedules, services available on the installation, and unit resources.

Recommendation:

• Implement BCT Battalion level FRGs to meet monthly to provide family support, disseminate pertinent Battalion training information and provide points of contact for family support.
• Implement a voluntary electronic distribution (mail/email) list of BCT Battalion level spouses for dissemination of information.

Response: Forwarded to the Basic Combat Training Center of Excellence.

Update: The Basic Combat Training Center of Excellence stated that this is a leadership issue. This issue has been forwarded to the Deputy Commanding Officer (DCO).

Update: The DCO will discuss this issue with the BCT Chains of Command.

Status: Complete (Drill SGT Spouse Focus Group) (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 11: Movies on Fort Jackson

There currently is no movie theater on Fort Jackson. Need to clean up and establish a good movies source for Fort Jackson. There are many retired military members outside of the gate, and with good advertisement a movie theater would be supported if the cost is reasonable.

Recommendation:

• Construct a new movie theater on Fort Jackson.
• Provide a location for movies to be shown on Fort Jackson at a reasonable cost.

Response: Restoration of the Movie Theater has been placed on the Priority List for FY08 funding.

Update: Funding has been approved to restore the Movie Theater, and re-open the facility.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

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INSTALLATION HOUSING OFFICE (IHO)

Issue 1: Insect infestation of the single soldier quarters.

It’s sometimes hard to walk around or go into a room, especially at night, without the roaches trying to walk in with you. Buying of boric acid and foggers are getting very expensive. Sometimes it is hard to move or pick up dirty laundry without seeing one. Cleaning the room extra hard does not help.

Recommendation: More frequent and efficient exterminating procedures/techniques.

Response: Previously submitted (1^st Qtr FY 06). Insect problems in any facility can be reported to the work order section at 751-7684. The problems will be addressed and if necessary, a contract will treat the affected area or areas.

Update: We have started to process of pest control extermination for the entire soldier complex starting with buildings 2442 and 2446 until completion of all buildings is done. Due to contracting restraints the actual service order had to be listed and done room number by room number and not the entire building for pest control.

Status: Complete (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 2: Housing is not grouped by rank structure.

On other installations housing is broken down by rank structure. This keeps those that are junior enlisted separated form the senior enlisted.

Recommendation: Using other installations as a guide and structure housing by rank.

Response: Housing is grouped by rank and bedroom quantity. The only designated areas are the Brigade Commanders (0-6's), and the CSM's. Due to the layout of the housing areas, we are unable to assign specific areas to separate ranks.

Status: Complete (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 3: Community Building for Housing Area

There is no community center for Fort Jackson family members to gather for recreational use. There are no free facilities for families to utilize on the weekends for family/community activities. This impacts community cohesion for both on and off-post family members.

Recommendation: Provide a community center in the housing area.

Response: Community centers will be put into the Residential Community Initiative (RCI) when the installation is privatized in FY08.

Status: Complete (Family Member Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 4: Family Member Housing On-Post for Unaccompanied 1st Term Soldiers

Family members of first term soldiers that are immediately deployed or sent on unaccompanied tours are not authorized on-post housing. This leaves spouses of first term soldiers without the option of on-post housing and military community support. This impacts first term soldiers and their families via morale, finances and troop retention.

Recommendation: Authorize the first term soldier deployed or assigned on unaccompanied tours on-post housing.

Response: When a Soldier completes Basic Training and AIT, the Soldier becomes permanent party and is assigned to an installation. This is done prior to deployment or a PCS move on an unaccompanied tour. If the Soldier is assigned to Ft. Jackson as permanent party then his family is authorized to live here, and we will gladly accommodate the family.

Status: Complete (Family Member Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 5: Family Housing continues to be grossly substandard.

The condition of these housing units is appalling. I would submit that any dignitary or senior official representing the Department of Defense and the Unites States Army would find it equally appalling. The Soldiers living area in AIT are in dire need of renovations also. In light of the fact that Fort Jackson is one of the largest IET Centers, if not the largest, in US Army training and the fact that we are sending Soldiers into Combat at a time of war, this is even more unacceptable.

Recommendation: Request be made that Fort Jackson be moved up on the privatization of Housing priority list or funds be procured for renovation.

Response: (Previously submitted – FY 04, FY 05, & FY 06).

Our quarters were built between 1965 and 1988, and they are small but still meet the Army standards. We have been allocated money for FY 05 to improve our quarters; i.e., turn 2-bedroom apartments in to 4-bedroom apartments, add rooms to make 5-bedroom apartments, family rooms, garages, etc. We will also be improving parking with this project. It will take a couple of years to complete.

Update: This addresses Family Housing as well as IET barracks, which are controlled by the units.

As to Family Housing, we have a $20M project underway to improve the residences in Pierce Terrace Areas 1, 2, and 3. We have done other improvements in Pierce Terrace Areas 4, 5, 6 and 7, as well as Howie Village. Housing will be privatized in September 2008, so we hope that the current housing will be greatly improved.

Update: Garrison Commander stated that RCI has awarded the contract to GMH and Centax Military Communities at the end of May.

Status: Complete (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 6: Climate control in Single Soldier Barracks

Soldiers residing in the Single Soldier Barracks are unable to control the temperature in their assigned residence. The unpredictable weather change is causing an unhealthy and uncomfortable living environment. The morale and performance of the Soldiers are suffering.

Recommendation:

• Institute self-regulating controls in each room.
• Allow for a building manager to be able to adjust temperature.

Response: The temperature setting for the Single Soldiers Barracks are to set IAW AR 11-27 par 3-5 which states during heating season temperatures are to be maintained in the range of 65 to 70 degrees and cooling season temperatures in the range of 76 to 80 Degrees. All rooms have self-regulating controls which allows the soldiers the option of changing the temperature 5 degrees up of 5 degrees down. Controls that are inoperable or rooms that are not of the regulated temperature should be called in on a service order at 751-7684 and reported to the SSC manager at 4-5446.

Status: Complete (AFAP – 2^nd Qtr FY07)

Issue 7: Access to Storage for Single Soldiers

Access to storage under the Single Soldier day room is unavailable during “off-duty” hours. Sometimes soldiers may need to retrieve items from their own lockers during hours that are not conducive to duty hours.

Recommendation: Have storage room keyed to fit all single soldiers’ room keys like the laundry room.

Response: This response needs to be coordinated with CSM. This is the result of not having CQ’s in the evening and weekend hours.

Update: CSM: Housing will coordinate with DLE to come out and adjust the storage room door lock to work with the Soldier's room key

Update: CSM: Every room key will open both the laundry room and the storage room.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

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INSTALLATION SAFETY OFFICE (ISO)

Issue 1: Four-way stop at Hill Street and Sumter Avenue (near Perez Gym).

The corner of Hill Street and Sumter Avenue is currently a 2-way stop. Soldiers cross Hill Street from 1-61 area to access the troop store, Regimental Hall, BN Aid Station and DFAC at all hours of the day. Traffic needs to go slower in that area and provide an increased level of safety to the Soldiers.

Recommendation: Make the corner of Sumter Avenue and Hill Street a four-way stop.

Response: DES has primary jurisdiction over roadways and traffic control devices. ISO is coordinating the issue with DES.

Update: Per Safety there is a work order in for this.

Update: DLE has recently moved the stop sign at Magruder Street and Hill Street up 10 yards closer to the crosswalk. The rest of the signs are to the closest point possible to the crosswalk given the pipe obstruction located in the ground near the crosswalks. The 4 way stop intersection at Hill Street and Sumter Street should be complete in the next 3 weeks and will be updated when complete.

Status: Complete (2^nd Qtr FY 07)

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MONCRIEF ARMY COMMUNITY HOSPITAL (MACH)

Issue 1: Urgent Care Clinic (UCC) gives priority to Soldiers attending training leaving permanent party Soldiers waiting, for hours, to be seen.

Recommendation: Send Soldiers attending training strictly to the TMC or setting up more doctors in the UCC.

Response: We have recently hired 3 additional MDs and will be hiring 2 more PA’s.

We have also brought in more nursing and medical support personnel.

The Soldiers attending training do not get priority in the UCC. Each patient is Triaged and treated in accordance with their triage category. What this means is that if a person comes to the UCC with cold symptoms they will be bumped by anyone who presents with a complaint that is more severe. (Example: low back pain for 2 weeks vs. broken bone)

The UCC medics are authorized to treat all SIT (before they are seen by the Triage Nurse) and release them back to duty following a very strict Army policy called the ADTMC (Algorithm Directed Troop Medical Care). Because they are treated rapidly it may appear that they are being treated before other AD personnel or other beneficiaries.

Our average wait to be seen by a provider is 2 hours. The National average is 4-8 hours.

The TMC closes at 1600 everyday and is not open on Sundays. The UCC has recently opened a Fast Track Clinic during our busiest time of 1700-2100.

Patients who require minimal care will be side tracked into this clinic after they are screened by the Triage Nurse.

The additional staff and new clinic have alleviated some of the wait.

Status: Complete (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 2: Moncrief Choice Lottery

The community is unable to determine status of lottery selections. Since TRICARE establishment no other information has been published on selection status. Persons not initially selected are making medical decisions causing an inconvenience while trying to determine selection status.

Recommendation: Publish an update for persons on the wait list and notify persons selected.

Response: TRICARE Plus is a Department of Defense program designed to provide Military Treatment Facility (MTF) primary care access, to the extent of space availability for those not enrolled in TRICARE Prime. TRICARE Plus replaced MTF space available primary care. Moncrief Army Community Hospital (MACH) had capacity in 2001 to enroll 700 people by random lottery of those who applied. There has never been a waiting list for the non-selected beneficiaries who participated in the TRICARE Plus lottery held on September 7, 2001. All non-selected applicants were advised by letter that they would have to receive their primary care in the civilian medical community. From October 2001 until August 2004 beneficiaries who had been enrolled in TRICARE Prime at Moncrief Army Community Hospital for two years or greater, reached their 65^th birthday and aged out of TRICARE Prime were given an opportunity to enroll in TRICARE Plus. Due to the limited number of primary care providers our facility was forced to stop TRICARE Plus enrollment in 2004. We simply do not have enough capacity in the MTF to provide the needed primary care.

Status: Complete (Surviving Spouses Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 3: Emergency Room Care

An Emergency Room will provide care for all medical emergencies as opposed to just scratches and bruises that Urgent Care provides.

Recommendation: MACH should provide an Emergency Room versus an Urgent Care Clinic.

Response: The UCC was converted from an ER in 1997. That decision was made at a level much higher than ours. We do not have ER trained staff or the supporting services in the hospital to maintain an ER. The numbers of actual ER patients that are seen in the UCC are minimal but when they do come they require a great deal of care. This increases the wait time for the true Urgent Care patients as it ties up the MD and the staff. In order to provide safe quality ER care the staff must be ER trained. The cost of maintaining that level of staffing as well as all the other supporting elements is far out weighed by having 4 very qualified ERs in the area and not enough true emergency patients to warrant an ER on Ft Jackson.  

True emergencies are any medical condition that could lead to loss of life, limb or eyesight. When a patient thinks they are having chest pain or any other illness that could lead to loss of life, limb or eyesight they should go to the nearest ER and be seen and then notify their PCM with in the time specified by TRICARE.

Status: Complete (Civilian Employee Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 4: Referral Prescriptions

Due to lack of appointments patients are referred to outside providers. Some prescriptions that are honored by in-house providers are not being honored from outside-providers. This creates and unnecessary out-of-pocket expense for people unable to obtain in-house appointments.

Recommendation: If you are sent off-post for care your prescription should be treated equal as an in-house prescription.

Response: AR 40-3 States “Prescriptions, written by licensed civilian practitioners not assigned to a uniform service Medical Treatment Facility (MTF), for personnel eligible for care in the MHS will be honored at Army MTFs if the prescribed medication is on the MTF’s formulary and meets local dispensing polices.”

Status: Complete (Family Member Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 5: Flu Shots for Childcare Providers

Children are at a greater risk of exposure to communicable diseases. Childcare providers are at a greater risk of contracting and passing on disease. Childcare is a center of gravity for the installation.

Recommendation: Flu shots should be offered to CYS employees and FCC providers no later than 1 December.

Response: Flu shots were offered to CYS employees and FCC providers in early November. Also, medics from the 120th Immunization Physical Exam Section went to Fort Jackson's schools in the beginning of November and provided flu shots to staff.

Status: Complete (Civilian Employee Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 6: Triage in Urgent Care Clinic

Not all patients are triaged immediately upon arrival to the UCC, therefore some patients wait long periods of time without being seen. Some patients’ conditions could be more serious that expected.

Recommendation:

• Provide immediate vital/triage screening upon arrival for all patients.
• Determine if on-site referral is necessary, and give option to use other care.

Response: An initial assessment is provided to all patients who present to the

UCC. Patients who need immediate treatment are provided immediate triage

and treatment. Patients who have non-urgent needs are triaged after

patients with urgent medical problems. Non-urgent patients are

generally triaged within ten minutes.

The front desk clerks inform patients that they have the option to

receive treatment downtown from a TRICARE provider during high volume

and long wait periods. This information is also provided through TRICARE

literature.

Status: Complete (AFAP – 2^nd Qtr FY07)

Issue 7: TRICARE Penalizes Dual Insurance Holders

When TRICARE is a person’s secondary insurance carrier it only pays 80% of the remaining balance after the primary insurance carrier is paid. Those with dual coverage ultimately save TRICARE money. This causes financial burden on the individual and could ultimately cost TRICARE more money if the primary insurance carrier is dropped.

Recommendation: Require TRICARE to change policy to pay 100% of the remaining balance after primary insurance carrier has paid their part of the bill.

Response: When you have double coverage, the primary insurer pays its benefits in full as the first payer. After the primary insurer pays, TRICARE will pay what is left up to the TRICARE allowable charge, which is the maximum amount TRICARE will authorize for medical and other services furnished in an inpatient or outpatient setting. There is no change in benefit limits when TRICARE is the secondary payer. Payments, from the primary payer and TRICARE as secondary payer, will not collectively exceed the TRICARE allowable charge. If you have OHI, you must follow any rules and guidelines set forth by your OHI plan, but you are not required to obtain referrals or prior authorizations from TRICARE for

TRICARE-covered services, except for:

· Adjunctive dental care

• The Program for Persons with Disabilities

• Stem cell and organ transplants

• Nonemergency inpatient behavioral health care services*

Be sure to submit all claims to TRICARE because deductibles may be applied to your annual

catastrophic cap. Your provider may submit secondary claims for you.

Status: Complete (Retiree Focus Group) (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 8: Policy Clarification on the Use of Primary Care Providers at Moncrief Army Community Hospital

Scope: Currently some Retirees and their Family Members (under 65) have been accepted to MACH for provider care versus having to use outside civilian doctors. There is no policy guidance available to the general Retiree population which outlines the eligibility of Retirees and their Family Members to use primary care providers at MACH. This creates a perception of favoritism and affects our community relations with the large Retiree population.

Recommendation: Publish or make available written policy guidance which governs the Retiree’s eligibility and use of MACH health care providers. Also include any eligibility or use requirements by age for Retirees or Family members.

Response: The ability to accept TRICARE Prime enrolled Retirees and their Family Members at MACH is based on our Primary Care Manager enrollment availability. At the present time we are unable to accommodate Retirees or their Family Members due to limited PCM availability. In order to assure Access to Care Standards for appointments can be met each provider has a maximum number of patients that can be enrolled to him or her. Priority for PCM assignment is:

1. Active Duty

2. Active Duty Family Members who are enrolled in TRICARE Prime

3. Retiree/Retiree Family Members/Survivors enrolled in TRICARE Prime

The TRICARE Service Center and the Customer Service Line 1-800-444-5445 have the information regarding availability for enrollment to MACH. All enrollments and PCM change requests must be processed through the TRICARE Service Center or Humana Military Health Services Website. We will publish in the LEADER when enrollment is again opened to Retiree/Retiree Family Members at our facility.

Status: Complete (Retiree Focus Group) (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 9: Making Appointments at Moncrief is Next to Impossible

It is obvious that Moncrief Army Hospital is too crowded and cannot handle the volume of patients that need access to care. The only way to make an appointment is to call at 0730 for a same day appointment, and even then you are on hold for 30-45 minutes. To make a future appointment you have to wait for up to 2 months. The people working the appointment line are often rude and add to the frustration. I have filled out ICE Cards with no results.

Recommendation: If the volume of patients is too high, allow service members to choose a PCM outside of Moncrief. Also place and enforce a positive customer care program.

Response: Moncrief Army Community Hospital is committed to providing excellent customer service. Customer Service is a part of the Front Desk Training, New Comer Orientation and Annual Training for all Moncrief Personnel.  Clinical Support Division is currently in the process of revamping the training program. 

Additionally, we have worked hard over the past year to improve appointment availability; however during the summer months capacity is decreased by deployments, summer surge for the Initial Entry Soldiers and PCSs, under normal circumstances our capacity meets our demand for appointments. Moncrief has been proactive in ensuring we anticipated the need for more summer appointments and has for the most part been able to provide appointments as needed.   An after hours clinical has been implemented to handle the overflow of patients needing appointments with an additional provider in the early evening to work in conjunction with the Urgent Care Center.  Additionally, we are not presently enrolling any new Retiree/Retiree Family members in Prime to our facility to enhance and make more appointments available to our patients.  We determine what category of beneficiary is sent to civilian providers for their primary care based on Health Affairs Priority of Care Policy for Military Treatment Facilities:

1. Active Duty

2. Active Duty Family Members enrolled in TRICARE Prime

3. Retiree/Retiree Family Members enrolled in TRICARE Prime

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Below you will find the previous issue and response:

Issue: Long wait time for appointments at MACH.

I injured my ankle at BN OPT on 23 Apr 04. I was not able to be seen at Ortho until 23 Jun 04 when I was diagnosed with a fracture. I was told the wait was due to a shortage of Ortho doctors and that the MACH Commander was not approving any referrals to civilian doctors. I was placed in a cast until September and I am still recovering from the injury. My concern is that long delays like this have the potential to greatly affect health and overall readiness of our Fort Jackson family. My wife has been told on more than one occasion an extremely long wait for appointments with Family Healthcare providers (2 or more weeks).

Recommendation: Refer Soldiers/Family Members to civilian healthcare providers.

Response: The number of doctors we have is determined by, the Army Office of the Surgeon General, based on our enrolled TRICARE Prime/Plus beneficiaries, and our mission. We do have TRICARE Access to Care (ATC) standards and we monitor continuously to determine how well we meet these standards. Moncrief is meeting TRICARE ATC standards for above 96% of primary and specialty care appointments. We can increase appointments by providing more support staff to providers, and requesting backfill and initiating hiring actions for any provider lost due to deployments, PCS, or ETS. Demand can be reduced by, using the Health Care Information Line, the “Taking Care of Yourself” book, or the Self Care Pharmacy. If you are dissatisfied with the appointment supply and the time it takes to get an appointment please submit the details to the clinic’s Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) site.

Status: Complete (1^st Qtr FY 05)

Issue 10: Prescription pickup for Family Members of Uniformed Military Personnel

If you go to the pharmacy at Moncrief in uniform to pick up a prescription for a family member you do not get priority. I do understand that people are waiting, however if your supervisor gave you time off to take them to an appointment it is important to get back to work as soon as possible.

Recommendation: To give priority to all Soldiers in uniform.

Response: Policy has not changed since 2^nd QTR FY 06.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

This issue was previously addressed:

Issue: Prescription pickup for Family Members of Uniformed Military Personnel

Uniformed Military Personnel are not allowed to pick up prescriptions for family members in the Uniformed Service Member window. The Military Member is therefore away from their duty station for a longer period of time.

Recommendation: Allow Uniformed Military Personnel the ability to pick up family member prescriptions in the Uniformed Service Member line.

Response: The intent of the B category priority window for Active Duty service members (currently averaging 15 minute wait times) has been to minimize the time away from mission requirements.

Fifty percent of our prescription volume is family members and if we allow the processing of family members prescriptions along with the Active Duty service member prescriptions, it would totally defeat the purpose of having a priority category for Active Duty in uniform.

If the prescription is a refill, it can be phoned in at 751-2250 or placed online at www.moncrief.amedd.army.mil and picked up at the PX Pharmacy much more quickly.

As discuss in the Fort Jackson Leader on Thursday, February 23, 2006 bottom of page 3, Pharmacy Rx priority, the Standard Operating Procedure defines the following categories in order of priority:

A: Discharge patients, patients in “distress” (acutely sick or in obvious severe pain), children under the age of 12, and patients with a communicable disease (e.g. chicken pox).

B: Active Duty in uniform (prescriptions for themselves), hospital and DENTAC staff (With ID badges).

C: Composite Health Care System entered prescriptions.

D: “Paper” prescriptions

E: Refills

Finally, the spirit of the SOP is to prioritize prescription dispensing in a manner that maximizes patient safety and efficiency.

Status: Complete (AFAP – 2^nd Qtr FY 06)

Issue 11: Priority at Moncrief Community Hospital

Waiting time is too long for care. Trainee load overwhelms services and affects mission, permanent party and family member job performance.

Recommendation:

· Designate TMC for Trainees and UCC for Permanent Party and Family Members only.

· Designate a PA for permanent party and Family Members.

· Educate the community on TRICARE/Medical Options

Response:

1. Designate TMC for Trainees and UCC for Permanent Party and Family Members only. The TMC is currently not a 24/7 operation and soldiers are sent to the UCC after hours and on Sunday’s for care. Hours for the TMC have been extended to meet the need this past year.

2. Designate a PA for permanent party and Family Members. An After Hours Clinic has been implemented to handle the overflow of patients needing appointments with an additional provider in the early evening to work in conjunction with the Urgent Care Center. This clinic is designed for Family Members and AD permanent party. Priority for care in the UCC is TRIAGE based; all other care is based on Health Affairs Priority of Care Policy for Military Treatment Facilities:

a. Active Duty

b. Active Duty Family Members enrolled in TRICARE Prime

c. Retiree/Retiree Family Members enrolled in TRICARE Prime

3. Educate the community on TRICARE/Medical Options

a.  The TRICARE Service Center, located on the Ground Floor of MACH that is open 7:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday (except Federal Holidays) to provide information on TRICARE.

       b.  Beneficiaries may contact 1-800-444-5445 for information.

       c.  Information is available on www.humana-military.com or www.tricare.osd.mil

       d.  MACH has a Health Benefits Office, located on the Ground Floor of our facility or by phone at (803) 751-2778.

       e.  The Managed Care Division staff is available to give briefings to any group, (803) 751-2338 or (803) 751-2778.

Status: Complete (Soldier’s Focus Group) (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 12: Soldiers Retirement/ETS Physical

The Retirement/ETS physical process seems to be flawed. There is no actual “physical”…only the items surfaced by the Soldier for possible VA Compensation are looked into. VA collects the physical paperwork then informs you that they (VA) will contact you for an appointment. However, there could be other things that the Soldier may not be aware.

Recommendation:

· All Soldiers should be given a COMPLETE Physical during Retirement/ETS process.

· The information given during Retirement/ETS Briefing should be more specific as to who will do what throughout the process.

Response: This is a medical issue and should be directed to the medical facility on the installation. Any issue pertaining to the type or procedures during the physical evaluation should be directed to the local Physical Exam Station, Building 1895, Washington Street. Soldiers are afforded the opportunity to have a physical when departing the Armed Forces. The Retirement Service/Transition Office does not require a physical prior to out-processing.

Update: DoD and VA are considering developing a “single exit physical” for a seamless transition out of the Army.

Update: Presently MACH has a system in place to do a “single exit physical”.

Status: Complete (3^rd Qtr FY 07)

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PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE (PAO)

Issue 1: Dissemination of the Leader

There is no subscription service to The Leader; this leaves Retirees that live away from the base out of “the loop”. Retirees want to be an active part of the Fort Jackson Community, but when the newspaper is unavailable because some live a distance away it leaves Retirees “in the dark”.

Recommendation: Allow for a subscription service to The Leader, so that it will be delivered to homes rather than just public outlets, or on base housing.

Response: A subscription service to The Leader already exists through the publisher, Camden Media Company, at a cost of $25.00 a year. The cost pays for third class postage. Please mail your check and address to:

Camden Media Company

ATTN: Leader Circulation

P.O. Box 1137

Camden, South Carolina 29020

The Public Affairs Office will publish this information in the newspaper each month so others will be aware of the subscription service. Thanks for bringing the need to inform our readers to our attention.

Status: Complete (Retiree Focus Group) (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 2: Dissemination of Veterans Services Information

Fort Jackson is giving information to the South Carolina Veterans Affairs Officers (46) and Military Organizations (13). It is not filtering down to the individual Veteran. Therefore, Veterans are left uninformed and unable to use said services.

Recommendation:

· Require Fort Jackson to list services available to Veterans on its home webpage: www.jackson.army.mil;

· Require that Fort Jackson devote a section to Veterans in The Leader Newspaper to keep Veterans abreast of current information.

Response: The Fort Jackson Leader and the installation website are here to serve the community therefore information deemed useful or of interest by any constituent group is published. As information is made available or brought to our attention, we will be glad to share with our audiences. However, at this time there is not enough Veteran-specific information to justify a section in the newspaper.

Update: We will discuss this issue during the Installation Action Council for finalization and approval to publish information on Veteran’s Services on Fort Jackson.

Update: CMS will discuss this issue during the council for finalization and approval to publish information on Veteran’s services at Fort Jackson and linking to the CMS website.

Update: CMS is working with the webmaster to complete a section on the Fort Jackson Web site reflecting the services available to Veterans.

Update (May 08): CMS asked the webmaster to add a question under the “Frequently Asked Questions” section of the Retirees/Veterans Link on the Fort Jackson Home page. This question addresses what is available on Fort Jackson for Veterans (not Retired) to utilize.

Status: Complete (Veteran Focus Group) (3^rd Qtr FY 07)

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STAFF JUDGE ADVOCATE

Issue 1: Legal Prosecution for Criminal Activity Overseas

In overseas assignments there is no vehicle for criminal prosecution for offences committed overseas by family members and civilian workers. Family members and civilian employees are committing crimes that are going undocumented and un-prosecuted. This puts the military community at risk of being victimized.

Recommendation: Have family members and civilian employees prosecuted overseas via the American Justice System.

Response: The Military Extraterritorial Jurisdiction Act (MEJA) is the vehicle to prosecute civilians who commit crimes overseas while accompanying the Armed Forces. It was passed by Congress in 2000 to address what many saw as a “loophole” for civilians to escape prosecution. It applies only to felonies, or crimes that are punishable by 1 year or more in prison. It should also be noted that not all Americans who commit crimes overseas can be prosecuted under MEJA. Only those who are “employed by or accompanying the Armed Forces outside of the United States” are covered.

Civilians can also be subject to the UCMJ when serving with or accompanying an armed force during a “time of war.” The John Warner National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007 provides language which clarifies this to mean a declared war or contingency operation.

Status: Complete (Family Member Focus Group) (1^st Qtr FY 07)

Issue 2: Citizenship

If a Soldier’s “significant other” is not a US Citizen and resides in another country, what steps does the soldier take to get them to America and become a citizen so that they may be legally married?

Response: Information on citizenship for a prospective spouse is as follows.

a. From the situation described we can give you a basic understanding of the requirements and process an individual would have to go through to get their fiancée in the United States legally. First, the citizen fiancée would have to file a petition with USCIS for a fiancée visa. After the petition is approved the non-citizen fiancée would then obtain a visa from the U.S. Embassy or consulate in the country they are currently living. The couple has 90 days from the date the non-citizen enters the United States to get married. If the couple does not get married, the non-citizen leaves the United States (even temporarily) or the non-citizen marries someone else, the visa expires and no extensions are granted. Each non-citizen is allowed only one fiancée visa so future applications would be denied.

b. After the marriage, the non-citizen spouse would then apply for permanent resident status if the non-citizen spouse wants to live and work within the United States. Initially the non-citizen spouse will receive a two year conditional permanent resident status. To become a permanent resident after the two year period the spouse will have to work with USCIS.

3. Contacts: The Office of the Staff Judge Advocate, Legal Assistance Division always welcomes legal questions and inquiries from Service members, Retirees and their eligible family members. To set up an appointment please call 751-4287 or visit the office on Wednesday between 1330 and 1600 for walk-in appointments on a first come, first served basis. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website has all the laws, regulations, forms and examples concerning immigration located at www.uscis.gov.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

Issue 3: Issues with Children

Military Police are limited in their ability to enforce issues with Children on Fort Jackson. There is a lack of knowledge of the limits in regards to enforcement of regulations/rules.

Recommendation: Have JAG give a class to the entire detachment on a regular basis.

Response: A representative from the OSJA can prepare and teach a class regarding the policies and regulations that apply to children on the installation. The class can then be taught to the MPs on an as needed or regularly scheduled basis.

Status: Complete (4^th Qtr FY 07)

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