DeMaio Calls for Formation of Taskforce to Protect Local Military Jobs

Carl DeMaioCarl DeMaio, Undesignated 1 Comment

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BRAC Related Taskforce Would Protect San Diego’s Military Bases

and Installations from Being Closed by Federal Government

Councilmember Carl DeMaio today called on Mayor Sanders to create a taskforce that will work to shield local military installations and assets from proposed cuts in Defense spending.

Councilmember DeMaio renewed his call for creation of a Base Closure and Realignment Commission (BRAC) preparedness taskforce in response to Defense Secretary Panetta’s briefing on how the Defense Department plans to cut $487 billion in military spending over the next ten years.

“San Diego is a proud military town.  Any cuts to military forces or installations in the region will have a devastating effect on our economy and the character of this City,” commented DeMaio.

Protecting our military assets is critical for the long-term economic health of San Diego and the region.  Military spending directly or indirectly accounts for $22.3 billion in our regional economy and accounts for approximately 475,000 jobs.

The proposed taskforce would act as the voice for our region before members of a BRAC Commission to educate them on our defense facilities and the essential local industries that support the DOD mission.  In addition, the taskforce would work with various stakeholders groups, including members of our local Congressional delegation, to effectively coordinate actions across various groups..

Councilmember DeMaio previously called for the creation of a BRAC preparedness taskforce in his Pathway to Prosperity  jobs plan, a comprehensive set of recommendations for strengthening our local economy.   Any severe cuts implemented by BRAC will have a devastating effect on the larger San Diego economy.

“Creating a BRAC taskforce as the base realignment process is beginning will help position San Diego to keep vital installations and jobs.  We cannot allow other regions to fight to keep these important jobs while San Diego does nothing.  The long term impacts on working and families and our local economy are too great.

For more information on base closures read the UT article here

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Comments 1

  1. I think the best way to prevent severe impacts to San Diego’s military presence would be to heed Ron Paul and Sen. Carl Levin (D-MI) and focus on the closure of overseas bases before we look at closing any domestic bases.

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