Thank you for your question. You can submit questions via our website, app (iTunes or Google Play) or Hotline and the questions can remain 100% anonymous. For instance, on the website, we simply require an email address and name which can be first name with no last name, etc. Our plan is to publish all questions and answers on our website and Facebook.

Thank you for bringing this to our attention. The Military Treatment Facility discovered an education and training shortfall with the contract employees working the appointment line. Since the discovery, training and retraining has occurred. The MTF has been actively managing and tracking mismatches between the scheduled appointment time and when patients are showing up for their appointment. As a result of the training, the MTF has seen a significant decline in these errors. However, because of the high turnover in our contract staff, we encourage patients to confirm their appointment time through TRICARE Online. In order to continuously improve our processes, we are actively pursuing a modernized appointment phone line system and other appointment line improvements that will help enhance the customer's experience when calling.

Why does it appear our services folks don’t work the same hours as the rest of the Airmen on base?

In October 2017 the MSG leadership, Air Force Office of Special Investigations and the Staff Judge Advocate met with the U.S. Postal Service officials to discuss the reports of tampered and missing mail on Minot AFB. While their review is in progress, we are requested to minimize dialog in open forums or media.  

The items that are not in stock are checked on a daily basis and are on order but we have no control over what our distributors do or do not send us. If something is out of stock, a customer can speak to a commissary employee or manager to see if it came on that day's truck but not yet stocked, which is often the case. When HQ deletes an item out of the system we cannot order it anymore since it is not in the system to order. We regularly check for expired items but we are not perfect, if a customer finds an expired item we will immediately pull it and can look to see if we have new, replacement products. Though we are extremely under staffed, customers are always able to ask employees or managers for assistance to find products.   

From Oct. 1, 2017 through May 15, 2018, Minot CPO registered 22 military spouses, of those, 17 were offered and accepted positions ranging from GS-4 through GS-11.  

The law gives spouses 1 chance to be a Priority Hire (PPP) using military spouse preference. The applicant decides what grade(s) and which job(s) to apply for.  Most spouses apply for multiple positions varying in grades and duties. Applicants are counseled when they register for PPP of the pros/cons of applying/accepting a valid job offer. As a rule, we recommend the applicant accepts the first firm job offer he/she receives as there are no guarantees for another position. Local CPO recommends and registers applicants for positions or grades based on the resume contents IAW OPM Qualification Standards and what positions are currently vacant at Minot AFB. However, AFPC verifies the PPP registrations and OPM Qualification Standards prior to referring candidates for vacancies. Then, hiring officials review and select the best qualified candidates for their positions. 

AFI 34-272, paragraph 3.13.7. states, “Do not allow people to bring in or serve food and beverage products in club facilities not produced, obtained by, or contracted for by the club.”  JDC, Rockers, B50 Brew, Rough Rider Pizza and Lil Riders are all part of the co-located club system on Minot AFB. This policy is established by AF to ensure food safety standards are met, maintain business income levels and are in line with business standards across the Air Force and the industry, i.e., McDonalds, Chucky Cheese etc. We have no objections if parents want to bring in water or snacks for children or get cups of water and use our soda machine water dispenser.

We are determining the funding, cleaning, maintenance and manpower support requirements to change the classification of Lil’ Riders from a non-appropriated fund supported facility to an appropriated fund supported facility. We will submit courses of action to leadership when completed.

The safety of children is a top concern for us. The 5th BW Ground Safety office has determined the room is not a safety concern.  We are closing the area off because it is a non-functional part of the playground that is going to be repurposed to a storage room.

Early Childhood Education (Pre-K) programs are not required by state law in North Dakota (NDCC 15.1-37-01).  Minot Public School District operates all school buildings and programs with the district to include Minot AFB schools. Minot Public School District only has a needs based program within the district that is funded by state and federal funds. There are inherent problems with establishing Pre-K within the district that includes operating costs and building space.  On base space is not an issue, but it is in many of the other schools. All schools are treated the same academically within the district so there would have to be a plan for every elementary school to have Pre-K. That would be cost prohibitive for the district. The school would not receive state aid payments for any student enrolled in Pre-K, per state law, which means that the costs associated with Pre-K would be taken out of the budget.  Current year the district is in a deficit of $3.3 Million and forecast a $2.5 Million deficit next year.

There are other preschools available in town and now there is preschool at Glenburn Public School. 

"I have a heart for all Airmen and their families and is concerned about the trust, professionalism, and respect for human dignity for and by all. Since the PAB is a private organization, external to MSG management and oversight, the MSG has a role limited by AFI 34-144 and AFI 34-223 however, I have directed that MSG members provide support to the Parent Advisory Board when legally possible. Additionally, to ensure all customers are treated the same, MSG staff has been reminded to maintain professional, courteous respect to all members of the community, and will be provided with additional, customer service training in June and July."

- Col. Angenene Robertson, 5th Mission Support Group commander 

When we first arrived at Minot AFB, 6 years ago, my grandchildren were too young to participate in any programs at the Youth Center. We became members anyway, because it allowed us access to the gym and equipment 3 mornings a week. The parents cleaned up after themselves, there were no employees except to sign us in and no additional charges. Why can't this be implemented again? I attended the Open Gym on Fridays and it was a joke. We had to constantly ask for more equipment for the children to play with and to begin with we were charged a fee.

We are in the planning phases of increasing the Open Gym program from just Fridays to Monday, Wednesday and Friday on days when youth center fee paying patrons are not present.  We anticipate implementation at the start of the new school year.

In addition, the 5th Mission Support Group team recently created a monthly calendar of events for families with children five and under that included different daily activities from numerous base agencies to include Child and Youth Programs, the Base Library, Arts and Crafts Center, Fitness Center, Indoor/Outdoor Pool, Base Chapels, and some others. Families are encouraged to support these wonderful facilities and activities. 

Though Col. Brooks approved funding to offset the cost for open gym, funding was not forwarded to the YC to support this initiative as we were able to work with the Air Force Services Agency to eliminate any incurred costs.

Per the 5th Comptroller Squadron commander, appropriated funds are not authorized to pay for non-appropriated fund parent fees.  Required supervision of children and the resulting non-appropriated fund labor costs was the reason there was a charge initially.  However, in an effort to assist this program, the Child and Youth Program Flight Chief consulted with the Air Force Services Activity for a supervision waiver and they approved it, thus enabling the Youth Center to allow the free use of their facility for this program/group starting on 9 Feb 2018.  Though NAF labor expenses were incurred prior to this waiver approval, we have initiated refund notifications to all Open Gym participants. 

Is there a way to re-train all employees, in support positions, what customer service means? Can leadership remind their employees what SUPPORT means? The MSG's mission is to support Airmen and Families.

The Mission Support Group provides base support and services.  The Air Force has an essential national defense mission; and all members and employees of the Air Force, have responsibilities for carrying out that mission.  We are responsible for following orders, performing specific daily tasks related to our duties, and living up to the high standards of the Air Force. Maintaining good order and discipline is paramount for mission accomplishment. Our core values demand that we treat others with genuine dignity, fairness, and respect at all times. We believe everyone is entitled to fair and unbiased treatment, and we take seriously our obligation to care for, teach, respect and lead others. We must also maintain loyalty to the Air Force’s core values and standards and maintain professionalism and respect for others regardless of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, or sexual orientation. This respect for others not only involves personal interaction but also extends to communications and interactions in social media and cyberspace. 

Outstanding customer support is the priority in MSG.  It is imperative our Airmen and Families know we care.  We desire customer retention, rely on customer feedback to help determine sustainable solutions, and ensure our actions reflect positively on the U.S. Air Force. We strive to maintain the highest levels of customer support despite being resource challenged in funding, manpower, etc.   We strive to maintain the standards and when we find areas of opportunity to improve our programs, support, customer service, etc. we ensure training is made available.  In addition to the annual training requirements levied by the USAF for all of its members and employees, we request resources for additional or specialized training where needed.  There are several upcoming training opportunities to assist MSG personnel in customer service and keep our attitudes fresh in this arena.

Minot AFB Youth Programs is working with 5 BW/PA to create an open, Air Force-authorized Facebook page.  Once authorized, the page will be moderated by Youth Center staff.  Additionally, regarding the Youth Programs Facebook page, we are working with Public Affairs to activate the page and up-channel to Air Force for approval this week.  We hope to be fully approved and running by the end of next week.

Until approved and available, parents are encouraged to contact the Youth Center directly with any questions at 723-2838, email the staff at 5svs.youth@us.af.mil, or visit the Youth Programs webpage at https://5thforcesupport.com/activities/youthcenter/.

We are unaware of a “Friday tradition” of drinking at lunch.  Recently, we received information of an incident where employees consumed an alcoholic beverage while at lunch and off duty, which raised questions from staffers of whether this was acceptable behavior.  AFI 134-144, 6.12.2 states, "No one who is under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs will attend, supervise or participate in any CYP whether located in CYP facilities, FCC homes or any other locations used for CYP activities."  Though “under the influence” can be interpreted differently by many, we used this incident as an opportunity to provide clear squadron policy and educate our staff  that any alcohol consumed constitutes “under the influence” and is not permitted. 

We were told last night that the fee for sports at the Youth Center goes towards paying for the staff. The coaches are volunteers and the Youth Center employees are working normal Youth Center hours, so where does the $40/player actually go?

Per the Child and Youth Programs NAF budget, the $40 sports fee breakdown is as follows:

10% Staffing (Clerical and Supervisory)
15% Supplies (i.e. paint for fields, dirt, floor tape, etc.)
45% Uniforms·        
15% Coaches Uniforms
15% Depreciation Tax

AFI 34-144
8.7. YP Fees. Fees may not be set higher than necessary to generate sufficient income to pay the NAF expenses associated with the activity.
8.7.1. Registration fees may be charged in YP. Installations may require those who have not paid the annual registration fee to pay higher fees for individual activities.
8.7.2. Team sports or league sports must be self-sustaining.

Youth Program parents are encouraged to speak to the clerks, coordinators, or director regarding fees/charges for any program offered at the Youth Center. Parents can use cash or check to pay for Studio 47, and hand receipts are available to everyone who asks.  CYP also adheres to strict cash control procedures to ensure all money is handled appropriately. 

On 30 May 2018 North Star Community Credit Union conducted an audit of Studio 47 to ensure all payments were being processed legally and ethically, and “The audit found no discrepancies. Checks are accepted, documented, and kept on file. All expense receipts are reviewed and kept on file.  There is a spreadsheet accounting for all fees, including cash payments, which is updated each time money is processed. Families are offered the option to receive a receipt at any time. All previously issued receipts are kept on file.”

This Commander’s Action Line system is monitored by 5 BW/PA, who filters the questions to the respective commanders/leaders under whose units the questions fall.  Group and squadron commanders enforce the 7 duty-day time line.

All FSS-related questions that have been asked through ICE comments since February have been reviewed and answered, whenever contact information was provided.  The automated ICE system provides the most efficient way to contact decision makers in each respective category, but leadership can only fully answer these concerns when contact information is left.  However, ALL comments are read and evaluated at the unit level, regardless of whether anyone leaves contact information.

We live on the corner of Waverly Way where the road curves and there is a giant field and a pathway" to Rocket Rd.  Cars have been using this "pathway" as a through street to the middle school on Rocket.  This is a concern because lots of kids use this short cut to WALK to and from the school. Not only that, but during spring when the ground is thawing and is saturated, teens have used the area to go "mudding."  We have also seen cars using it at 10 o'clock at night as a short cut.

My husband and I have raised the issue with housing multiple times.  We've called the LE desk multiple times.  Both have said that yes, cars should not be driving down through there, however, nothing has been done.  I stopped one gentleman and told him that it wasn't a through street and his reply was "well, there isn't a sign saying I can't drive down through there." Please advise as to whether or not cars are permitted to drive through this area and if not, what is going to be done to stop it. 

Security Forces has verified the area in question is in fact not a road and is considered grass field.  The only authorized vehicles that may be in the area are Government owned vehicles for official purposes (i.e. utility vehicles, security patrols, etc).  Security Forces patrols will be increasing their patrols in the area and citing any vehicle found off-roading or transiting the area.  Additionally, Security Forces is working with Balfour Beatty and CE to emplace signs and barriers to identify the area as a “No POV” area.  Finally, MAFBI 31-116,  Minot AFB Motor Vehicle Traffic Supervision, identifies the limitations of personnel operating vehicles in this type of area and if personnel are observed in violation of this instruction, notify the Law Enforcement Desk immediately.

2.27.1. Vehicles will not be driven or parked on any grass or seeded area.

4.8.9.4. Operating an off-road vehicle on school grounds and within the housing area is prohibited. 

4.8.10. There are no authorized operating areas on Minot AFB.

I had the privilege of spending the past week at Minot AFB as a contractor this week and I'd like to share a story about one of your airmen.

I dropped by the commissary food court for lunch and was walking toward a line. An airman, obviously joining someone in line ahead of me, inadvertently stepped in front of me. Realizing his error, he apologized, stepped out of line and waved me forward. I told him "no worries" as I had a full hour set aside for lunch and insisted he go ahead of me.

I placed my order but when I went to pay, there was a bit of a problem - no charge for lunch. The airman had paid for my lunch. I tracked him down, wanting to repay him, but he refused.

Although this was the action of a single individual, it truly reflects the assistance and support I received at MAFB this week. I look forward to my return to your base.

Apparently it is true ... the best go north. 

Thank you for allowing us an opportunity to address your concerns.  Currently the PAB is not a private organization, however they were informed that if they generated funds they would be required to become a private organization (PO). The approval package has been sent to the PAB President and the PO manager is awaiting a response.  Once the PAB receives approval from the 5 BW/CC, they may proceed with any fundraisers that are submitted to the Private Org manager and approved by the 5 FSS/CC per AFI 34-223 10.9.1.

POs are not Federal entities and are not to be treated as such.  Accordingly, they are not NAF instrumentalities (NAFIs) as defined in AFI 34-201, Use of Nonappropriated Funds, nor are they entitled to the sovereign immunities and privileges given to NAFIs or the Air Force. 

POs must furnish their own equipment, supplies, and other materials. Newly elected PO officers must consult FSS/FSR for guidance and training on local installation requirements and procedures because POs generally do not get either APF or NAF support except where specifically identified in AFI 34-223.  POs may be provided places to conduct meetings of reasonable duration and frequency. 

Personal and professional participation in POs is governed by DoD 5500.7-R, Joint Ethics Regulation.  

From Balfour Beatty - Our pest control vendor ECOLABS was contacted by the State Environmental Protection Agency regarding their usage of pesticides to control Richardson Ground Squirrels (DakRats).  The EPA has notified ECOLABS to temporarily refrain from the use of pesticides in our housing community until they can review what is being used and if they have been following the prescribed practices for their usage.   As of May 30, 2018 ECOLABS received an e-mail from the EPA saying they are still working on the review and should be done soon and have an answer for both ECOLABS and Balfour Beatty.

Until we receive the guidance from the state our vendor is not able to actively control the Dakrat population.  When we get guidance from the state we will either continue with the use of pesticides to control or we will formulate a new plan with our vendor that will use some other strategy

Thank you for the opportunity to clarify some points to your concerns.  The following responses address the two main concerns:

Regarding rating qualifications/education degrees/and outside of government services experiences:  Applications are rated according to the general standard set by OPM.  For most general admin/management occupational series, a 4-year bachelor's degree qualifies for a GS-5, additional 1-2 years of graduate work minimally qualifies an applicant for a GS-7. Additionally, the applicant must also have 1 year of specialized (direct) experience to the appropriate level.  Many positions also have added desired experience requirements which are listed on the positions descriptions advertised on USAJOBS.GOV.  As you can see, CPO must rate the positions within the parameter set by OPM. 

Regarding "coding errors":  A recent incident that we are aware of is that AFPC updated some of the codes without notifying the field offices.  Once AFPC notified us, we notified and updated the registration within 24 hours.   We aim to provide the best chances for Spouse registrants to match against our vacancies.  Applicants must be among the best qualified candidates eligible for referral. "Best" qualified means that the spouse's qualifications are equal to or higher than the lowest ranked candidate eligible for referral.  In several instances, local CPO may determine that an applicant's experience may qualify for certain "codes"; however, after review, AFPC determined that the applicant is not "best qualified" with the specialized experienced needed and rejects the codes submitted by local CPO.  Therefore, CPO must have the applicant amend the registrations.  Unfortunately, these rejections cost additional process time to the already lengthy hiring process. 

For specific case review, please contact the Civilian Personnel Officer at (701) 723-1997.  

The current outdoor track cannot be covered due to engineering and site requirements and proximity to Tanker Trail to the North and the LRS Vehicle Maintenance Facility to the South.

We are working a design for a new, standardized track with a bubble-style cover.  The current concept will include a new rubberized track, artificial turf field, air supported fabric shelter, HVAC, and potential for additional supporting facilities (such as parking, and restrooms).  The CE squadron has submitted a Request For Funding to higher headquarters for a Concept Design.  Initial construction cost estimates indicate that the project will likely compete for Congressional-level funding such as MILCON or Unspecified Minor MILCON.  Therefore, the timeline for completion will be heavily dependent on Congressional funding, and leadership priority. 

Thank you for sharing your concerns and apologize for your experience.  Minot AFB is a memorable assignment and pray that any communications or experiences do not cloud the high quality standards we strive to maintain and want to help assist in understanding Air Force policy and standards.  It is our prayer that your concerns have been misunderstood as the following are how the Air Force envisions the role and value of our members and families and expectation of our adherence to laws, policies, etc.  We are exemplify being good Wingmen when we remind and support one another in meeting these standards and expectations. 

Spouse organizations- Spouse unit/family programs are designed to enhance readiness and establish a sense of Air Force community. These programs are been standardized across the Air Force to address the needs of all military families with special emphasis on support to families across the deployment cycle.  Air Force Global Strike commander provides a continuous, straight forward message on how “morale and readiness impacts our lethality” and how we take care of families is tied to this.  This is a critical role and responsibility we all share in maintaining morale and this nation’s nuclear deterrence effectiveness.  Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David L. Goldfein and his wife, Mrs. Dawn Goldfein have written that spouse programs are “A vital resource available to command teams to support Air Force families is the Key Spouse Program. This program represents a powerful network of interconnected, educated, service-minded volunteers standing ready to assist with everything from morale and welfare celebrations to crisis management….It is at the squadron level where we succeed or fail as an Air Force,” said Gen. Goldfein about Revitalizing squadrons….This is where Airmen and families thrive. It’s where training and education occurs.”  As leaders, which includes everyone, regardless of rank, is our primary responsibility to facilitate an environment where we can be successful as a community and strong as a nation.

Destruction of government property: Based on the jurisdiction of the installation, an act, of deemed criminal and committed by a civilian, would be referred to the Ward County Sherriff’s Office for action. If this is witnessed, please contact the authorities immediately.

Promises of Civilian Promotion: 5 USC 2302 contains prohibited personnel practices of hiring employees within the Federal Government, which includes, but is not limited to, discrimination, nepotism, giving unauthorized preference or advantage, influence, deceive or willfully obstruct candidates for employment, etc.

It is inappropriate to give the perception that hiring is based upon “who you know” and can be accomplished without following the Federal Government’s strict rules and procedures.  This perception leads to inaccurate information, grievances, and potentially missed employment opportunities.

For information on the federal hiring process, please contact the Civilian Personnel Office for assistance.

Last year (2017), my son was at the Annex and they went on two to three field trips a week. This summer (2018), the June schedule shows only two field trips for the whole month. I am curious on why that is. The price did not change but it seems the services have.

In 2017, SAC planned 8 field trips and 4 guest speakers for the 12 weeks of summer. The trips included the base bowling alley, pool, fire department, Margie's Art & Glass and a farm visit among others. The guest visitors included Project Yes, Honor Guard, and others.

In 2018, SAC has 7 field trips planned and 6 guest speakers for the 12 weeks of summer. The trips include the base bowling alley, pool, Huey Tour, Air Traffic Control Tower Tour, Scandinavian Heritage park and others. There are two trips planned for June, four trips planned for July, and one trip planned for August. Guest speakers include the fire department, Minot police, vet clinic, SERE, CE, STEM demo, and others.

Field trip calendars are released monthly to parents. The field trip schedule is based upon availability of time/space of the visiting locations, required staff to child ratios, and weather. SAC coordinators chose to hold a majority of field trips in July 2018 as during this month we have the highest count for daily attendance (i.e. more youth get to attend). Additionally, by July youth have had time to acclimate to the program allowing for calmer and more enjoyable field trip experience for the youth as they are typically comfortable with summer camp teachers and knowledgeable of summer camp expectations. 

There is a family changing room in the fitness center. Room 404 is located in the back of the facility near the indoor pool and has a sign stating it is the family changing room.  The fitness center also has a sign in the front lobby identifying all areas, to include the family changing room.  If needed, please don't hesitate to ask an Airman at the front desk for directions. 

The spouse is only required to produce an 1172-2 signed by the sponsoring military member and two forms of ID in order to renew her ID card.  We are in the process of standing up a new Online ID Card renewal system that will slash time required to be in the MPS, but we are still working out bugs.  When fully operational, members can follow the instructions at the bottom of the response below to digitally sign the DD Form 1172-2 online. Below are the steps for any sponsor to digitally sign the DD Form 1172-2 with the link, providing they have the correct Java software installed on their computer.  We expect to begin publicizing this option in June. 

Sponsor can certify the DD Form 1172 on line:
The sponsor (CAC holder or Retirees can create a DS log-on) can access the DMDC website here:  https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/self_service/rapids/unauthenticated?execution=e1s1.  Click “Replace ID" next to dependent name, certify the DD Form 1172 for the dependent who is renewing his/her ID card. 

Thank you for an opportunity to address these concerns.  These types of broad vague statements/complaints are very hard to address without details.  We truly believe that statement that we do not fix repairs that are paid for is false.  We are closely monitored by the Air Force Housing office and they conduct Quality Control (QC) for the majority of our move-in ready homes.  The QC office are specifically looking for paid damages and repairs that are not completed, and they seldom find any.  Yes we’re sure it does happen from time to time; but when it is brought to our attention by our Air Force partners or a new resident moving in, we promptly take care of it.

Carpet is a major factor in a community this large.  Our operational documents with the Air Force set a 5-year life span on carpet.  After the 5-year period residents are not held responsible for normal wear and tear or minor pet damage associated with their carpets.  Residents are not required to have their carpets professional cleaned at move out if they have pets and the carpet is older than the 5 year life span.  Occupants are held responsible for gross negligence or willful neglect damage to their carpets regardless of the age.  Even though our operating documents spell out a 5-year life span it is not economically feasible to replace all carpet in our 1,606 homes every 5 years.  If a carpet is in good condition, does not have topical stains, pet damage or odors we may not replace carpeting as long as it is still serviceable and presents a good appearance.  This is done on a case-by-case basis and the decision to keep a carpet older than 5 years is a concessions of opinions from leasing staff members, maintenance managers and black light/UV results.  If a carpet is determined to be serviceable, when a new resident moves in they are informed of the age of the carpeting in the home.  This is not a foolproof process though and we may still end up replacing carpeting in homes after new residents move in if the carpeting is creating problems for the new family.  There have been instances where we have charged residents for carpet replacement but it was determined during the maintenance process that the carpeting could be repaired or cleaned.  Each time we have refunded the difference in the costs to repair/clean verses the replacement cost we charged that outgoing resident.

The other broad complaint mentioned was yard work.  North Dakota has a unique and often times diminished growing season.  We very rarely charge residents for pet damaged yards, we have done it, but very few times.  Depending on how long the time between residents and how many years of pet damage to a yard, there often is not enough time for a yard to take root and grow.  We inform residents of the condition of their yard at move in as well as discuss it directly with them when they are doing their walk through introduction to the home.  If a yard is bare we ask them to keep an eye on the yard and if it is not "growing" we will return to the yard to re-seed or fertilize as needed.    I would suspect the biggest complaint we get regarding yards and paid damages are referring to winter and pet debris removal fees.  When a resident moves out in the winter and they have dogs, unless their yard is free of snow and we can visually see that there is no pet debris in the yard we charge each resident a minimal "winter pet debris" removal fee of $55.00.  We keep track of each address and in the spring when the snow has melted we have our vendor go down the list of addresses and clear the yard of debris and repair damage that was under the snow.  Yards do get missed when residents are dishonest about their pet ownership.  We allow new residents that move in during the winter to call us in the spring (in a reasonable amount of time) and our vendor or our employees will do the yard clean up.  This is one of the most difficult areas to monitor when you are managing a pet friendly community with 1600+ homes and you are dealing with old debris, new debris, snow accumulation, etc.

We meet with first sergeants regularly, attending first sergeant breakfasts, first sergeant off-site training, etc.  When occupants have issues with damage charges, carpet costs or the condition of their home when they move in we work with them directly or through the first sergeants.

Often times visiting the homes as a team so everyone can see what we are basing charges on or if new home conditions require attention.

Thank you for the opportunity to address your concern.  The Air Force clearly defines the child to staff ratios in AFI 34-144, Chapter 12.  Per this Child and Youth Programs instruction, the following staff requirements must be met at all times:

For infants 6 weeks to 11 months of age, there must be no more than 4 infants per staff member at any time and no more than 8 infants per group.

For pre-toddlers 12 months to 23 months of age, there must be no more than 5 children per staff member at any time with no more than 10 children per group.

For toddlers, 24 to 35 months of age, there must be no more than 7 children per staff member at any time (except at rest time)* and no more than 14 per group.

For preschoolers, 3 to 5 years of age there must be no more than 12 children per staff member at any time (except at rest time)* and no more than 24 per group.

*During rest time, the staff/child ratio for children over 24 months of age may double if the majority of children in the room are asleep.

Per the Defense Commissary Agency (HQ DeCA), upon demonstrating a need, an installation commander would have to put in a request to HQ DeCA to be open on Mondays.  After submitting the request, HQ DeCA would check sales and staffing at Minot AFB to see if it would be possible and cost efficient.  Once data is available that supports the aforementioned sales and staffing criteria, a request to open on Mondays could be submitted.  At this time the data will not support the request.

The commissaries are not allowed to change prices to compete with any other stores. They sometimes order high-demand items in large quantities from a vendor, who in turn “may” mark it down to a lower price.  As a matter of DeCA policy, all commissary prices are set at 1% above the distributor cost except for meat and produce, as they are allowed to mark these items up a little higher to cover for spoilage.  Local operations and prices are not a factor for DecA policy.

I travel north and pass by the base every morning around 7:15 for work... as of late there has been an increased amount of vehicles traveling north and stopping abruptly and making u-turns by turning into 184th ave all the while many cars are turning onto the frontage road (which is also becoming an issue) to avoid the line in the north bound lane. Is there any way we can fix this? One of these days it will result in an accident. My family farms and ranches just east of the base and travels 184th ave turning onto 83 every morning/day. I cringe at the thought of my sister in law traveling with my nephews, my mom, my dad or brother getting into an accident because of these travelers making a hasty decision to make a turn to get through the gate faster than everyone else. I appreciate all you do and hope we can make some changes to create a safer travel environment for everyone. 

Can we get parking lines painted again before winter rolls in? Mainly at the places that they are non-existent right now      

-gym

-BX

-shoppette

-commissary

-mdg

-bfifty brew

Keeping parking lots and streets striped in northern tier climates is a challenge.  Snow and ice cover the striping in the winter months making it difficult to see.  And, our snow removal efforts tend to scrape it off.  Having said that, we do not stripe streets and parking lots every year and none is scheduled for this fiscal year.  We will take this requirement, identify additional areas for striping, and develop a work order to get it accomplished by contract in FY19.  

BBC Response:  Per our Resident Guide:

Yard Maintenance

The Community Management Office will provide complete yard service for all unfenced yard areas, including the unfenced front and sides of the Home, provided that Resident has removed any personal items that would prevent mowing. Residents are responsible for yard maintenance within the fenced area of their backyards. Shrubs in the fenced area must be trimmed to the proper height of 3 feet so as not to block windows for safety reasons and be neat in appearance. Residents are required to repair any damage to lawns caused by swings, pools, furniture, decorations, pets, etc. Should Residents fail to make repairs by the time indicated on a yard discrepancy notice or prior to final move-out inspection, the lawn will be repaired by the Community Management Office and the actual cost of repairs will be billed to the Resident.

Traditionally our Landscaping Vendor has trimmed trees and shrubs in the fall when the lawn mowing requirements slow down.  When the grass stops growing they transition to a bi-weekly mowing schedule.  The off week that they do not mow they transition to focus on trimming and pruning of trees and bushes.  We started the bi-weekly mowing schedule effective 23 July. 

It's always been in our culture to extend invitations out to Airmen to give them a place to eat and feel like they are part of a family.  This has been effective as long as there are leaders willing to open up their homes and we rarely hear of an Airman spending the holidays alone (unless it's their choice).

There are some sanctioned Adopt-an-Airman programs.  There are also several informal programs in which our Squadrons support our airmen; i.e. host holiday feasts to ensure members receive a traditional holiday meal during certain holidays.  Some of our Honorary Commanders host airmen at their homes during the holidays and other special occasions.

The Minot First Sergeant Council does two targeted holiday events for Airmen.  They solicit our squadrons for members who may be in need during Thanksgiving.  The First Sergeant Council works through the commissary, Operation Warmheart, and other local agencies to solicit donations to create Thanksgiving “baskets”.  These often include meats of the Airman’s choosing and usually a $25-$50 commissary gift card to help create a nice meal for their family.  Additionally, in December the First sergeant Council runs a program called the “Angel Tree”.  They solicit the squadrons for any families in need, whether it be toys, clothes, etc.  The Council puts up a holiday tree in the Base Exchange foyer with angel ornaments which contain a description of what the family member needs.  People will pick these ornaments, purchase the items requested, and put them in a drop box located in various locations around the base.  The gifts are wrapped and delivered to the families.

We welcome opportunities to support our single airmen and/or families.  Any organization who wishes to support our airmen, on station or deployed, should contact our Public Affairs office. 

At the beginning of each school year and when a child is enrolled in a school, the Minot Public School District requires the parent to complete contact information for themselves, as well as, emergency contact information in case the parent(s) cannot be contacted. This information is used for routine contacts and in the case of a child not being picked up from school.  The emergency contact should be a neighbor or friend that can pick up the child if the parent(s) are not available to do so.

In the case of a winter storm or other emergency the school will try to complete contact with the parent to determine the best course of action. If they make contact they will keep the parent informed of the situation and what is being done.  If the parent cannot be contacted then the school tries to contact the emergency person to make arrangements to pick up the child.  If the emergency contact cannot be reached usually the school will contact the School Liaison Officer to contact the member’s squadron leadership to see if there may be someone in the unit that could assist.

We all understand that time is critical in ensuring that the child is picked up and that school staff can be released in a timely manner to get safely home and take care of their own children. The school will maintain contact with the parent (if possible) and continue to monitor the situation with them.  If there has been no contact with the parent or emergency contact and/or the school has been unable to resolve the issue they will have no choice but to contact Ward County Sheriff’s office and child social services to pick up the child.

This final action will be placing several more people in harm’s way during a storm and emergency personnel could be needed for other emergencies.

According to school officials the bottom line is communication. Ensure that the information provided to the schools is current and up to date so they can contact you.  Don’t hesitate to contact them if the need arises. Have an emergency contact for situations that may come up to include weather emergencies. If you find that you are a temporary single parent due to a spouse deployed, talk to someone about what actions may be needed in your spouse’s absence. You can contact your unit’s key spouse or Airman and Family Readiness Center for more information.

The very best option would be to work with the First Sergeants to work on the Family Care Plan idea with all deployers who have families remaining in town.  We could only ask that spouses/families make a plan for this.

The only other contingency we could look into would be an emergency Family Child Care (FCC) arrangement, but that would be breaking a number of CYP rules and would 100% be contingent on our FCC provider’s availability/willingness.  Not all providers will just take someone in (not to mention they could lose their licenses, if something happens). 

To ensure we do not break any rules and ensure safety and security of our children, we ask everyone to strongly adhere to weather warnings.  Since the severity of snow storms vary, Minot AFB and the Minot community provide sufficient warnings and time for travel ahead of all snowstorms. With snow storms in our area being both severe and unpredictable, it is feasible that a parent could be delayed for a day or more; therefore planning is key.  Like the school district, all of the available youth programs are required to designate an emergency contact.  This emergency contact would be responsible for picking up the child and ensuring their safety when the parent(s) are delayed or unable to pick up their child(ren). Unfortunately there are no programs that would retrieve a child and care for them for an indefinite period of time. 

Thank you for the opportunity to share the process under which our Child & Youth care providers are screened before beginning employment with our children.  All Child & Youth providers including our Family Child Care providers undergo the following screenings in addition to a traditional interview process:

1) Current installation records check to include the following agencies:

     - Security Forces Management Information System, Family Advocacy, Mental Health, Alcohol 

       & Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment, and Government Family Housing

       NOTE: This check is completed every 5 years of employment in these positions

2) Installations records checks as above for any installations in the previous 2 years

3) Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Registry National Conduct Search

4) Child National Agency Check with Inquiries

5) State Checks for current state and any states resided in for the previous 5 years

6) Fingerprint Screening through the Electronic Questionnaires for Investigations Processing

7) Proof of Immunization

8) Completed Physical Examination

9) (Youth Center only) Driving records check

While our screening process is very rigorous, we do not typically look at the social media pages of potential employee.  Many of our child & youth providers save been employed in our facilities since prior to the widespread use of social media. 

We have investigated the alleged inappropriate conduct found on this employee's social media account and have counselled them on their personal choices on social media given their public level of employment.  The Air Force has an annual training requirement for all employees on Information Assurance and Cyber Awareness training which includes the use of social media.  Further, FSS will provide remedial social media awareness training for all employees regarding responsible use of social media and appropriate posting.  Additionally, going forward during the squadron orientation, new employees will be trained on their roles as responsible representatives of the FSS, Team Minot and the United States Air Force. 

Social Media is a tool that allows members, home station and down range, to maintain contact with friends and family.  The intent is not to abuse use while working nor as a tool to do harm, bully, or demean any person, coworker, or organization. The importance of upholding professionalism while using social media and maintaining interactions that treat others with dignity, fairness and respect.  The Air Force is built upon the core values of integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do. We expect our Airmen to adhere to these core values at all times, to include their behavior on social media.  All Airmen are expected to create and maintain an environment free of discriminatory and inappropriate practices, both on and off duty. This includes conduct on social media websites as well as all forms of electronic communication.

AFI 36-2909, Professional and Unprofessional Relationships, applies to electronic communication and social media interactions by military members, on and off duty. AFI 36-2706, Equal Opportunity Program, Military and Civilian, applies to electronic communication and social media interactions, on and off duty for military members.  Per AFI 35-107, Public Web and Social Communication, Airmen are allowed to use social media for self-expression and repost publicly released information; however, guidance states that Airmen must not post any defamatory, libelous, vulgar, obscene, abusive, profane, threatening, hateful, racially, ethnically, or otherwise offensive or illegal information or material.  Airmen (military and civilian) have limitations associated with freedom of speech; as such, DoD members are required to abide by certain restrictions associated with military/civil service and thereby maintain good order and discipline.  Failure to comply with these directives is punishable under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, Article 92, or civilian equivalent judicial processing.

Guidance memorandum AFGM2017-36-29-01 reemphasizes expectations of military standards as they pertain to social media and electronic communication, while providing additional guidance on non-consensual posting of sexual imagery.  We understand we must continue to reinforce our expectations for professional and appropriate behaviors both in and out of the workplace, on and off-line, as well as remain vigilant for behaviors and materials that hinder a professional working environment or harm fellow Airmen.

Failure to obey the prohibitions listed in the guidance memorandum is a violation of Article 92, UCMJ. While every case must be reviewed based on its specific facts, some applicable Uniform Code of Military Justice provisions regarding disrespectful behavior using social media and electronic communication include:

- Article 88, Contempt towards officials

- Article 89, Disrespect towards a superior commissioned officer

- Article 93, Cruelty and maltreatment of subordinates

- Article 117, Provoking speech or gestures

- Article 120c, Other sexual misconduct

- Article 133, Conduct unbecoming an officer

- Article 134, Behavior bringing discredit on the armed forces or prejudicial to good order and discipline (including communicating a threat and indecent language).

- Adding a disclaimer such as “opinions are my own and not shared by the