What does Housing Privatization mean for Minot AFB residents? Published Aug. 7, 2013 By Balfour Beatty Communties MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- On Aug. 1, Balfour Beatty Communities assumed operations of Minot Family Housing with the goal of providing the highest level of customer service, enhanced housing, and a vibrant community for the Service Members and their families stationed here. At Balfour Beatty Communities, a dedicated staff comprised of community and facilities management professionals is ready to assist in making the transition into privatization as seamless as possible. As a way to celebrate this exciting occasion, as well as give residents a chance to meet the Balfour Beatty Communities team, BBC is throwing a Grand Opening Party for all family housing residents in early fall. Residents of all ages will be welcome to attend the celebration featuring complimentary food and activities! Detailed information will be released on www.minotfamilyhousing.com. "We couldn't be more excited to begin operations for family housing," said Tana Waldren, Community Manager for Balfour Beatty Communities at Minot AFB. "My staff and I look forward to meeting the residents on base and working with them to ensure that their time spent living in Minot Family Housing is not only enjoyable but memorable." Why privatize? Minot AFB has partnered with Balfour Beatty Communities under the Privatization of Family Housing Program, as a way to provide quality affordable housing faster and more efficiently than traditional processes allowed. Privatization of military family housing enables private sector developers to effectively manage all family housing operations and ultimately create a living environment that helps increase the readiness, morale, and retention of service members, allowing them to concentrate on their missions. What to look forward to in privatized housing BBC will be responsible for the development, maintenance, and management of family homes, grounds, and infrastructure. With all community and facilities management being maintained through one company, BBC ensures a holistic approach to all family housing and community needs that is centered on responsive customer service. As part of privatization, there is also a plan in place for new construction, renovations, and general community upgrades including: - Backyard fencing, - Neighborhood Community Center - Community Center inclusive of indoor playground and waterpark - Dog Park - Storage Units - Outdoor Multi-Purpose Courts Balfour Beatty Communities offers an exciting resident experience not found in traditional housing complexes--the LifeWorks program! The Balfour Beatty Communities LifeWorks program offers free activities and events for residents of all ages aimed at strengthening community relations. To see what events are happening at Minot AFB, visit our website. We hope to see you there! Next steps for current residents Residents will be required to sign a lease agreement with Balfour Beatty Communities. Lease signings are currently being conducted by our Community Management Team. If you have not signed a lease agreement, please contact us at 701-727-0007 to schedule a time that is convenient for you. All leases must be signed by July 31, 2013. Understanding Basic Allowance for Housing and privatized housing BAH is determined based on rental market value, rank, and number of dependents. Unlike most rental markets, privatized housing offers additional amenities not usually found in private sector housing. Because of this, DOD policy on privatized housing allows rent to be equal to full BAH. BAH in privatized housing includes: - Rent - Utilities - electric, gas, water, sewer, and fuel oil for heat (based on average consumption, with the exception of telephone, cable, and Internet services) - Landscaping services (front yard and common areas) - Trash collection - Kitchen appliances - 24/7 facility maintenance services as well as routine preventative maintenance services - Renter's insurance personal property policy - Free LifeWorks program year-round activities and events - Community Amenities (community center, community splash park, playgrounds, etc.) About BBC Headquartered in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, Balfour Beatty Communities currently operates more than 44,000 military homes located in 23 states and Washington DC and is over 1,100 dedicated employees strong. For more information regarding Balfour Beatty Communities visit www.balfourbeattycommunities.com. For questions regarding BBC operations and the transition to privatization, contact the Community Management Office at 701-727-0007. All service requests may be directed to our Facility Management Office at 701-727-6174. Minot Family Housing 164 Summit Drive 701-727-0007 Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesday: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. www.minotfamilyhousing.com