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Library > Fact Sheets > Commander's Action Line archive 2011
COMMANDER'S ACTION LINE ARCHIVE 2011
Posted 12/2/2011
Printable Fact Sheet
Parking availability on Eglin (Jan. 19)
Q: An Eglin employee was concerned about the ever-shrinking parking availability on the main base and the amount of reserved parking spots.
A: Regarding the number of reserved parking spaces on base, we agree, there are way too many. Reserved parking spaces for each building are authorized only for specific positions/ranks in accordance with our AFI. Throughout the years, organizations have failed to annually validate their parking plans and this is an issue we are working to correct. This past month, we initiated a review and validation of building parking plans in our most congested areas on Eglin in efforts to free up spots for our work force and customers. Our expectation is that we will eventually be able to increase the number of parking spaces available for common use.
Energy Savings (Jan. 28)
Q: Energy savings efforts on base appear misguided or based on false premises and do not stand up to cost-benefit-analysis. Here are some examples:
1. Street lights are turned off at night, yet after evening softball games, the energy-wasting floodlights are left on until the next morning. I personally have witnessed this once or twice a week for the past several weeks.
2. One of three elevators in Bldg. 349 is shut down to save energy, causing the other two elevators to be used more and wasting peoples' time waiting, reducing productivity. I realize this may promote the health benefits of stair climbing, but where is the supporting data?
3. In the Math Lab, female personnel (I don't know about the men) have been instructed to turn off the lights when leaving the restroom. Given the use-rate of a restroom, has anyone examined the trade-off of the energy surge at start-up and the decreased bulb life?
4. Has no one reported the westbound left turn arrow on Eglin Blvd. at the East Gate Gas Station? It gives a left turn arrow to non-existent cars, lengthening the eastbound red light and wasting peoples' gas. True energy savings depend on a larger world view than whether or not a single bulb is lit. And, just to clarify, I fully support true energy savings, but not feel-good Potemkin village solutions.
A: The Eglin Energy Management Center has been emphasizing energy conservation and efficiency since July 2009, to reinforce culture change on Eglin AFB and meet mandated energy conservation goals by Fiscal Year 2015. The EEMC has always stressed that energy efficiency should never cause a negative impact on safety or mission. If one needs to use energy to accomplish their job or for safety reasons, they should use it. Team Eglin's focus is on reducing energy waste and sustaining energy savings through culture change and stewardship.
The street lights on base work on a photocell and have not been intentionally turned off at night. Parking lot lighting, to include the BX and commissary, is operated by photocell or timer. Also, parking lot lighting may be turned off all together in order to reduce energy intensity and improve efficiency in cases where safety and security are not compromised.
With regards to the lighting at the softball fields, the Eglin Fitness Center staff takes energy conservation and efficiency very seriously. The staff uses a detailed facility checklist to make sure the softball field floodlights are not being left on all night after they close the facility at 2300. However, there are times when people are using the softball fields for athletics and physical fitness training after 2300. Fitness Center staff politely reminds those personnel to turn the lights off after they are finished with their activities. The Fitness Center is considering putting the softball field lighting on a timer to ensure lights will be turned off automatically after 2400 hours.
4. Elevator #3 was shut down last year to conserve energy, and to encourage personnel to use the stairs as a healthy alternative. For the last four months, elevator #3 has also been out of service awaiting repairs. Elevators #1 and #2 are fully operational and working normally. On numerous occasions, EEMC personnel have observed the use of elevators #1 and #2 during peak hours in the mornings and evenings in order to determine if long delays were occurring. It was noted that the average wait time was about one minute. The EEMC personnel routinely track the energy usage in Bldg. 349 and are also vigilant in efforts to ensure that there is no major disruption/inconvenience to the mission or personnel as a result of energy saving initiatives such as with the elevators.
Hunting on Eglin AFB (Jan. 28)
Q: A hunter was concerned about a deer hunt with dogs hunt with dogs permit and claimed to have been threatened by hunters claiming spoils.
A: The situation you describe is deeply concerning. If you are ever threatened with physical harm again while on the Eglin Installation, whether hunting or not, contact the Eglin 96th Security Forces Squadron at (850) 882-2502 or the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at (888) 404-3922. I can assure you that any form of intimidation or aggressive behavior towards another individual will not be tolerated on the installation and will be met with swift action by law enforcement personnel.
The Eglin hunting program is managed to provide opportunities for all types and methods of hunting. Unfortunately, some of these methods are widely disparate and far from compatible, i.e. dog vs. stalk hunting. Due to this potential conflict, Eglin has designated more than 110,000 acres which are not open to hunting with the aid of dogs. Although the Eglin hunting permit you have purchased provides equal access to dog and stalking areas alike, I recommend you consider taking advantage of these "non-dog hunting" areas. Utilization of these designated stalking and primitive weapon hunting areas should provide increased hunting quality, as you will not see the increased levels of motorized vehicle traffic and free running hunting dogs that you have previously experienced. The Eglin Wildlife Management staff, located at the Jackson Guard office in Niceville, can be contacted at (882) 4165/4166 and would be glad to assist you by suggesting suitable hunting locations to match your hunting preferences.
Speed limit on Gaffney Road (Jan. 28)
Q: Why does Gaffney Road still have a 20 mile per hour speed limit? There has been no housing there in over a year.
A: Upon review, the speed limit on Gaffney Road should be increased once one has passed through the elementary school zone. The 96th Civil Engineer Group Traffic Engineer, in coordination with security forces and safety, will evaluate the entire area of concern and make the appropriate changes to the posted speed limits.
Eglin West Gate Traffic Safety (Jan. 28)
Q. Entering the West Gate each workday morning is a safety hazard. While they do tend to honor the red light, vehicles coming from Fort Walton Beach pull into the intersection on yellow light and block traffic from Shalimar. Something needs to be done. I have had two near misses in the past three months. Suggestions: 1.) Adjust the timing of the lights so that there is a greater delay between red light for one direction and green light for the other. 2.) Install traffic lane poles similar to those on Mary Esther cutoff from Beal Pkwy in FWB to prevent arbitrary lane changes.
A. The intersection in front of the West Gate is ultimately a Florida Right-of-Way, meaning the state is responsible for all maintenance, construction and changes to traffic control devices at this intersection.
A transportation engineering assessment of all the Eglin gates was conducted last October. The study revealed the intersection itself to be only part of the problem. The timing of the traffic lights also contributed to slowing traffic down. Since then, we have worked with the Florida Department of Transportation to adjust the timing of the lights to better maintain the flow of traffic. We did evaluate the use of bollards to control traffic, but our assessment showed that employing bollards at this type of intersection would only slow traffic down further.
Unfortunately, there is no short term fix to the traffic flow entering the West Gate, but long term suggestions to alleviate the problem, such as extending the amount of inbound lanes and/or building a second gate, continue to be evaluated as part of the long range base construction plan. To alleviate traffic delays, we suggest that, if feasible, Eglin personnel make minor adjustments to their arrival and departure times in order to avoid peak traffic. I realize this doesn't offer an immediate solution, but please realize the situation is being addressed and every effort to minimize delays at this intersection is being made.
Increase in storage fees at Bens Lake Marina (Feb. 8)
Q: A customer had a question concerning the increase in boat storage fees at Ben's Lake Marina. He also wanted to know how the percentage of increase was figured.
A: The Ben's Lake Marina is a Non-Appropriated Fund activity and must operate like a business. Since the time of our last fee change, nearly four years ago, many of our operating costs have risen steeply. Despite rising costs rates did not change. Unfortunately, we can no longer absorb these costs. Even with the increase in fees, we feel we provide an outstanding value for our customers. As of this time, service fee increases have only been applied to the marina boat storage rates. Periodic rate and fee reviews are conducted for all our recreation programs to determine if adjustments, up or down, are warranted. Rate increases are based on expenses and are not directly related to any specific real property enhancements or program improvements. This is why, in regard to boat storage, the rate increases are not proportional. The differences in the rate change between wet storage and dry storage is tied directly to the higher labor and equipment costs associated with the movement and dry storage of boats, relative to the costs associated with wet storage.
West Gate modifications (March 1)
Q: I see that the curb has been recessed by the old Hospital gate to allow 3 lanes of traffic to come in from Highway 85 from Shalimar, but I was wondering when the lane will be restriped to allow all three lanes of traffic to enter. It has been several months since this modification was completed and that third lane of traffic will allow traffic to flow smoother and quicker thru the gate. Thank you for your time.
A: In regards to your question, the intersection in front of the West Gate is ultimately a Florida Right-of-Way, meaning the State is responsible for all maintenance, construction and changes to traffic control devices at this intersection. Eglin Traffic Engineers have been in contact with the appropriate state office to have the third lane re-designated as a "straight ahead lane" instead of the "right turn only lane" it is currently marked as. Even though the 796th Civil Engineer Squadron has shortened the curb, there has been a delay in changing the traffic control devices by the state. When completed, this small change will incrementally help traffic flow, but will not solve the overall congestion problem.
Headlight usage on Eglin (March 1)
Q: A concerned Eglin employee asked about drivers not using headlights in limited visibility conditions.
A: Under Florida law, Florida State Statute 316.217 states the required use of headlights and taillights during the hours of darkness from sunset to sunrise to include the twilight hours. Headlights and taillights are also required during limited visibility, as you have mentioned, during periods of rain, smoke, fog or any condition that limits visibility to less than 1,000 feet. Eglin AFB has assimilated all Florida State traffic laws, therefore all Florida traffic laws will be adhered to and enforced on base.
We take safety very serious and will continue to educate the base populace on Eglin traffic safety. A safety article was published in the base newspaper ( March 18) regarding this topic and several other traffic safety reminders. Furthermore, the safety office will have a "pop-up" reminding individuals to turn their headlights on during limited visibility. Finally, information will be distributed through the Unit Safety Representatives and a reminder will be posted in the base bulletin.
Auto Hobby Shop issues (March 11)
Q: A auto hobby shop customer inquired about the length of time the media blasting cabinet had been out of order and why it had not been repaired. He also inquired about the customer service at the shop and how hard get an employee on the phone.
A: Thank you for sharing your concerns. The equipment in question had been repaired and was available for use. I apologize for the inconvenience.
I've asked the auto shop team to take the time to ensure our customers concerns and questions are addressed completely and accurately each and every time. The Force Support Squadron prides itself on great customer service. I hope you'll give us a chance to serve you in the future and demonstrate our commitment to taking care of customers.
I hope we were able to address your concerns about the Auto Hobby Shop. I appreciate your patronage and I hope we can serve you again in the future.
East Gate traffic light, custodial concerns (April 7)
Q: A base employee inquired about the timing of the stop light at the East Gate shopette claiming it favored those leaving the Shopette. He asked if it could be adjusted to let more traffic flow for Eglin Boulevard. He also questioned the cost savings of requiring government employees (particularly engineers) to clean up and take out trash due to the budget cutbacks limiting custodial services.
A: In regards to your observation that the intersection is too biased to the vehicles leaving the Shoppette, we took another look at the traffic signal timing and the functioning of the electronic controller located there. The timing, in fact, favors traffic on Eglin Blvd and the controller is working correctly. The controller is set up to notice when the line of vehicles exiting the Shoppette has cleared and then it cycles back to Eglin Blvd. When the signals are working properly as they are now, an empty lane will not be given a green light more than several seconds.
If several lanes are stacked with traffic, the signal will follow the program that was set in place by a traffic engineer based on a study of this intersection. As part of the Eglin Master Plan effort that is under way, a traffic engineering contractor is studying all of the signaled intersections on Eglin Blvd and will submit a plan to have these work together better. Their report will be received later this year.
At Eglin, one of our main concerns is customer satisfaction and we certainly agree base access in the morning can be difficult. The members of the 796th Civil Engineer Squadron have worked hard to maintain and update the traffic controller at this intersection. We always appreciate everyone's patience at the intersections during periods of heavy traffic.
We are also aware that the pedestrian call buttons cause traffic congestion problems at this intersection. Approximately 500 personnel cross Eglin Blvd for physical training at the same time as personnel are starting and ending their work day on base. When the pedestrian button is pushed it will add twenty seconds to the traffic signal timing cycle, therefore in a given period of time there is less time devoted to motor vehicle traffic. This issue will continue to create traffic congestion until a pedestrian tunnel or bridge is constructed. We are working to restore proper traffic flow while ensuring security and safety to this area.
We would also like to thank you for your custodial concerns. With the significant FY11 funding shortfall, our ability to purchase services has been dramatically limited. The funding available as applied to service costs necessitated the need to reduce custodial services. Civil Engineering had proposed all feasible options and hard choices had to be made. My staff and I are receiving the same level of service as every other member of Team Eglin. Working together we all contribute to doing the best we can with what resources we have available to support the Eglin mission.
Auto Hobby shop concerns (April 12)
Q: Why have services been practically eliminated when there are personnel and equipment available to perform minor maintenance actions? This the only place on Eglin personnel can get auto care, yet they don't even have a sign at the road showing the location. Is this another one of our services that is going to close down?
A: Based on recent feedback from our customers we decided to return to our core business and focus on providing the best possible self-directed work environment for our customers. Our aim is to be "be brilliant at the basics" rather than growing beyond our capability to provide world class service every time for every customer.
Regarding signage, we agree. We'll work with the base civil engineers to see if we can add better signs to direct people to the shop. The shop is located far from the main traffic flow and could benefit from additional signage.
Thank you very much for your interest in our Auto Hobby Shop business.
Eglin club bar bell problem (April 18)
Q: A retired colonel wrote in:
Remove the bell at the Eglin Club bar. This might seem to be a trivial matter, but it is a sign of our changing times. Traditionally, at officers clubs in the Air Force and Navy, a bell was installed at the bar to ring when a person wore a hat at the bar or placed his hat on the bar. That offender was required to buy a round of drinks. This tradition probably originated when fighter pilots were relieving the stress of combat at the officer's club and having some innocent fun. It was rarely enforced and in good nature the offender removed the hat and smiled when the bell was rung. Since the Eglin Club is no longer an officer's club, this tradition no longer applies. On two different occasions in the last month some guys wore hats at the bar, the bell was rung and an altercation almost resulted. The removal of the bell will preclude future incidents and reflect the lower standards that now apply in the club.
A: Thank you for bringing this to our attention. The bell located in the bar of the Eglin Club is an important part of our Air Force traditions and will remain. Our club is shared by all ranks and it's important to preserve the traditions of both officers and enlisted Air Force members. We do need to do a better job of publicizing the "rules" of the bar. We'll get the placard with the rules put back up near the bell and we'll include the rules in our next flyer to membership.
Consolidating our clubs into a single operation helps preserve one of our finest traditions. Air Force clubs have long been host to our most important events, such as change of command ceremonies, retirements and roll calls. Our clubs also provide a place to gather to recognize those recently promoted, host local dignitaries and enjoy social events with fellow Airmen.
We are fortunate to have a club we can be proud of and a club that is stronger than ever thanks to consolidation. I certainly don't consider our consolidation a reflection of "lower standards." I am sure you are aware of many changes that have occurred in the Air Force, across the DoD and in society as a whole. These changes often require compromise, acceptance of new norms and an open mind.
Again, thank you for taking time to share your thoughts and concerns with us.
Spray bottles at base gyms (April 19)
Q: A concerned customer questioned by bleach is used at the Eglin base gyms, instead of a regular cleaning solution, to clean off the equipment. He cited that Hurlburt does not use bleach. Additionally, he claimed the box for the AED at the Health and Wellness Center gym, near the leg press machine, was highly corroded from the bleach solution dripping down the front of the box. Also, the metal waste receptacles in the HAWC were replaced with plastic ones due to the severe corrosion the receptacles experienced as a result of the bleach solution being sprayed daily around them. He also mentioned the heavy bleach fumes bother his sinuses and many others are highly sensitive to bleach.
A: Thank you for bringing this to our attention. The current fiscal environment demands we use the most economical and effective method to sanitize our fitness equipment. The bleach solution used at the Eglin Fitness Center is an acceptable and economical way to sterilize our equipment. The bleach to water ratio we use is based on industry standards and was coordinated and approved by our Public Health office. This method of sanitizing fitness equipment is commonly used in fitness centers across the Air Force. Annually, using the bleach saves us more than $7,000 when compared to the cost of using a commercial sanitizer. Other products, such as sanitary wipes, would cost approximately $30,000 more per year based on our current utilization rate.
As far as your concern about the AED box and receptacle corrosion at the HAWC, exposure to the solution could have contributed to corrosion. We are currently investigating other locations for the sanitizer to keep it away from these areas.
Again, thank you for taking time to share your thoughts and concerns with us.
Motorcycle equipment clarification (July 19)
Q: A motorcycle rider was denied entry at the gate for wearing low quarter leather shoes instead of boots, although he was wearing all of the other mandatory safety gear. He could not understand that if AACI 31-204 stated "over the ankle shoes are strongly recommended but not required" why he was not allowed access based on his shoes.
A: I understand your frustration in being inconvenienced when you were denied entry at the gate. However, the men and women of 96th Security Forces Squadron are charged with enforcing the most current Air Force guidance, with safety being the number one priority. With the high risk involved with motorcycles, proper wear of gear is paramount to the health and livelihood of all riders.
As you already know, AACI Supplement 31-204, Air Force Motor Vehicle Traffic, paragraph 4.28.1 states, "Leather boots or over-the-ankle shoes are strongly encouraged, but not required." Although this local supplement would allow for leniency with regards to foot wear, security forces personnel are ultimately required to enforce Department of Defense (DoD) guidance outlined in AFI 91-207, AFMC Supplement 1, The US Air Force Traffic Safety Program.
Paragraph 3.4.2.4.4 of this AFI states, "Riders will wear sturdy over-the-ankle footwear that affords protection for the feet and ankles (durable athletic shoes that cover the ankles may be worn). Sandals, low quarter sneakers, and similar footwear will not be used."
There are inconsistencies between local motor vehicle safety guidance and DoD-wide instruction. We are currently working on getting the AACI Supplement 31-204 corrected. Until the AACI Supplement 31-204 is updated, the verbiage in the established DoD AFI 91-207 takes precedence.
Reserved parking signs (Dec. 2)
Q: A parking monitor brought up parking issues around Bldgs. 11, 13, 349, 350, 351, 374, 375 and 380. Her concerns were with the vast amount of reserved parking signs on Eglin.
"A huge issue I notice is when reserved parking holders are on leave, TDY, class, etc , those spaces sit empty for days, even weeks sometime and it's just hard to justify with such limited parking. The limited open parking has caused people, at times, to park along curbs, sidewalks, grassed areas, etc. that have kept us busy issuing tickets because in many cases this illegal parking has caused hazards for others."
Another concern was the elimination of reserved parking in the event of a force protection change.
"Our facility manager has voiced concerns about the reserved parking being eliminated. He worries about how he would contact those parked around our building if we need to have vehicles moved to put up bollards. My suggestion on that would be to have supervisors make it part of the in-brief that this could occur and it would be their responsibility to move their vehicles when a certain Force Protection level is reached, which they would know via the giant voice and/or the pop up warnings on our PCs."
A: Regarding the number of reserve parking spaces on base, we agree, there are far too many. We have spent the past year, conducting a review and validation of building parking plans in our most congested areas on Eglin AFB in efforts to free up spots for our workforce and customers. Our expectation is we will soon be able to increase the number of parking spaces available for common use.
Your thoughts on how this will impact our ability to clear the area around certain buildings in the event of increased force protection measures are on target. It will certainly be more difficult. Your facility manager may no longer be able to easily identify the owner of each vehicle parked around the building, but we're confident people will do the right thing when given ample time to move their vehicles. As you mentioned, alerts are provided via multiple avenues such as Giant Voice and desktop notifications. We can also cross-reference vehicle registration numbers to locate owners quickly if the situation dictates.
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