Rising Above the Floor

Economists frequently cite Pierce County's military presence as providing an economic floor and damping radical swings like we see in other Puget Sound economies.

Readers with interest in military and community matters should recall information from public sources for a "Grow the Army" (Oct. 2007) and the future stationing of a Combat Service soldiers at the post. New to our attention is the inclusion of a 2,800 Soldier medium Combat Aviation Brigade with 110 helicopters. (An earlier Environmental Assessment called for an aviation regiment of 800 soldiers. (Feb. 2005))

There is an opportunity to raise the floor if not the roof with the notice of a scoping for adding 5,680 soldiers to Ft. Lewis and the Yakima Training Center (YTC). First noted in the Federal Register, Vol. 73, No. 246, December 22, 2008, those interested may present comments at an open house where personnel from Ft. Lewis and the YTC will be present to provide information and answer questions.

January 20, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Lacey Community Center
6729 Pacific Ave. SE
Lacey, WA 98503

January 21, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Hal Holmes Community Center
209 North Ruby Street
Ellensburg, WA 98926

January 22, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Howard Johnson Plaza
9 North 9th Street
Yakima, WA 98901

Comments and requests for information may be sent to Mr. Bill Van Hoesen or fax to 253-966-1785.