Colorado Springs has felt the effects of the slowing economy just like everyone else in the country. So every job counts. Well the Air Force has a plan to open regional purchasing centers responsible for handling most AF base purchases. For the Southwest Region, that regional center is planned to be based in Colorado Springs. While it meant a net loss of personnel at bases around the country, and a net reduction of about 200 jobs across the AF, it was hoped this plan would streamline base purchasing and save the AF money. For a cash strapped service like the AF, this is important.
But the NM folks had different ideas. Led by Rep Heather Wilson, they have challenged the AF decision on the basis that it would negatively impact small businesses, according to a press release posted on her website, http://wilson.house.gov
This is an interesting issue. Certainly, having local procurement staff makes it easier for small businesses to get details and understand the requirement. However, the AF is faced with shortfalls as it is the least funded service during the war on terror. Leadership is trying to figure out for example how to deal with the grounding of the F15 fleet because they no longer have the money to maintain these old planes, and buying new planes costs a lot more money up front.
But is the NM folks interest really about small business, or about jobs in general, including any lost base personnel and some small businesses who are less competitive on bundled purchases. What should be the primary concern of our AF? Should they always get the best deal they can, or should they factor in how they impact the local communities where they live and work? Some real interesting thoughts to ponder. Wonder where you the loyal readers come down?
Anyway, because of actions by Congressional members like Heather Wilson, the AF has put the whole plan on hold. Their official position is that they will be doing "internal transition planning" for the next 18-24 months according to Wilson's office. We will wait and see what happens then.
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