Keesler housing privatization <br> Negotiations continue toward agreement Published Feb. 24, 2011 By Air Force Center for Engineering and the Enviornment and 81st Mission Support Group KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Negotiations continue between Keesler's housing privatization partner, Forest City Military Communities, and Air Force Center for Engineering and the Environment officials. In addition to Keesler, what is collectively known as the Southern Group also encompasses Arnold Air Force Base, Tenn., and Charleston and Shaw AFBs, S.C. "Over the past several months, we have been working diligently with our Air Force partners towards the transfer of privatized housing assets for the Southern Group Air Force (project)," said John Ehle, Forest City Military Communities senior vice president. "This is a rather complex process in which delays can arise, as has been the case with other privatized housing projects. We want to be sure the transfer is as seamless as possible as we look forward to enhancing the quality of life for the military families we will serve for years to come." The goal of ongoing communications is to make sure that both Forest City and the Air Force can reach clear agreement on a way forward that can then be presented to Airmen and their families. "We want our first presentation to be our final presentation" said Allen Fennigkoh, Air Force housing privatization project manager at AFCEE. "Our military members and their families remain our first priority, as always." "As plans are finalized and timelines for housing privatization become more clear, Keesler Housing Office personnel will begin scheduling town hall meetings and other presentations so Airmen and their families will have a clear idea of what to expect, the anticipated timeline for transition, and the way forward," said Col. Rodney Berk, 81st Mission Support Group commander. "Those attending these meetings will have an opportunity to ask questions, provide input and obtain information about the project schedule, anticipated milestones and other concerns they may have." Forest City's current military housing portfolio consists of about 12,000 homes in Hawaii, Illinois, Colorado, Washington, Indiana and Tennessee.