Action Line: Lords Walk Lease

  • Published
  • By Col. John T. Quintas
  • 48th Fighter Wing commander
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  
COMPLAINT:

I have been hearing a lot of my neighbors talking about how the lease in Lords Walk will soon be expiring. I have tried to discuss the issue with the Housing Office but their only response is that they are not at liberty to speak about it at this time.

I understand that the official date of the lease expiration is not final but I have concerns that I would like to have addressed.

As a spouse of a military member, when they deploy or go on TDY, it is important to have everything planned out and in order for the next four to six months when they are away from home. So there is frustration because we do not currently know anything. And as a spouse of the Air Force family I would like to know if and when the lease does expire, where would we go? Would we be forced to move off base or would Liberty Village be an option for the residents in this area?

I am thankful that the Air Force prepares our soldiers so they are taken care of while away from home, but while away they need the reassurance that everything in the home front is working smoothly.

RESPONSE:

First let me apologize for the frustration you have felt. I always feel irritated when organizations tell me they can't answer my questions. I'm glad that you've turned to the ACTION LINE so I can clear this up. And I hope that all the families know that taking care of the families of our deployed Airmen is one of my top priorities. This Wing will do anything we can to minimize the stress and strain of deployment on our family members. We know that in our service to our nation we must all share in the deployments, but those remaining at home station have a responsibility to look after the families, and I am committed to ensuring that happens.

Currently, there are 570 units associated with the Lord's Walk Balmcrest leased-housing area. Beginning in May 2013, the leases will be terminated under a five-year phased return plan. Approximately 11 units per month are scheduled to be returned over the five year period, which will be completed in 2018. The 48 Civil Engineer Squadron housing office is aware of this lease expiration and is considering this when offering housing to our military members.

Please know we are taking every precaution possible to make this transition as smooth as possible on all involved. I've tasked my Civil Engineer Squadron with developing a plan of action that avoids disrupting all families and reduces the number of unnecessary moves. We are thinking through this plan, well beyond 2018. And certainly, we will make special
exceptions for deployed families whenever necessary.

For any additional questions, please contact Ms. Umit Spencer, Housing Assistance Chief at 226-6099 to find out which zone your home is located and to discuss your options. Thank you for the sacrifices that you and your family are making on behalf of our Air Force and our nation.