MAFB Economic Impact Report Presented at MAC Luncheon Published Feb. 5, 2016 By Airman 1st Class Matt Rauschnot Minot Air Force Public Affairs MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- The monthly Military Affairs Committee luncheon was held at the Grand Hotel Thursday, Feb. 4 at 12 p.m., and included a presentation of Minot AFB's annual economic impact report, presented by Lt. Col. Raymond Castro, 5th Comptroller Squadron commander. The base contributed more than $597 million to the area's economy in fiscal year 2015. In fiscal year 2014, Minot AFB had an impact of nearly $578 million, a significant increase of approximately $19 million. "We spend money in the local community to keep Minot AFB running in different areas," said Castro. "The commissary and the exchange spent nearly $5 million in the local area, while medical claims paid to local medical facilities through the TRICARE system total more than $10 million." The economic data is calculated on regulations from the Air Force and is current as of Sept. 30, 2015. The total economic impact was calculated by combining expenses: the annual payroll of the base, worth $368 million; annual expenditures for construction, services and materials, costing $93.4 million; and the value of indirect jobs created, $135.7 million, Castro said. The amount paid to local schools was also significant, accounting for almost $7.2 million. This accounts for off-base education for many of the young Airmen from Minot AFB. "It is fairly safe to say that Minot AFB will continue to have a positive impact on the economy and the local community, through fiscal year 2016 and beyond," said Castro. For the full report click http://www.minot.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-160205-014.pdf