Financial constraints are forcing officials here to make adjustments at Fort Wood

Fort Leonard Wood personnel may notice changes to some installation services this year, as financial constraints are forcing officials here to make adjustments. Kendall Smith, with the Directorate of Public Works, says, “There are base operations support budget shortfalls across U.S. Army Installation Management Command, and we are being directed to reduce certain services.” These shortfalls affect some civilian training opportunities for IMCOM personnel, equipment and supply purchases, and custodial and mowing services. “For improved grounds, the grass will be mowed every 14 days or when it reaches 6-inches tall,” Smith says. “This includes entry gates, parade grounds, Child Development Centers, and cemeteries. Semi-improved grounds, including the most common areas in the cantonment area, will be serviced every 21 days or when it reaches 6-inches tall. Also, the mowers will not go back to the wood line in many areas and will not bag the cut grass.” On the custodial front, personnel may notice less frequent cleanings and limited services. Custodial services in high-traffic areas, such as the Maneuver Support Center of Excellence building, are now adjusted to one day each week. Services at Child Development Centers will not change. Other affected areas for IMCOM personnel include non-essential civilian training, which has been eliminated, and non-critical over time, which is being reduced. Non-critical supply and equipment purchases are being deferred, and hiring and education fairs will take place virtually, as will retiree appreciation days. Many of these adjustments are likely to remain in effect until at least September 2022 and are dependent upon IMCOM budgeting.