The United States Army
05/03/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 05/03/2024 19:25
U.S. Army Garrison Hawaiʻi Hosts Community Meeting at Schofield Barracks, Discusses Local Issues and Infrastructure Projects
[Link] 1 / 4Show Caption +Hide Caption -Col. Steven McGunegle addressing community members and military personnel during a meeting at Schofield Barracks, where discussions on local housing, environmental issues, and the construction of a new hangar at Wheeler Army Airfield were held to foster collaboration and solutions for the northern Oʻahu community. (Photo Credit: Miranda Onorio)VIEW ORIGINAL[Link] 2 / 4Show Caption +Hide Caption -Col. RJ Garcia addressing community members and military personnel during a meeting at Schofield Barracks, where discussions on local housing, environmental issues, and the construction of a new hangar at Wheeler Army Airfield were held to foster collaboration and solutions for the northern Oʻahu community. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army)VIEW ORIGINAL[Link] 3 / 4Show Caption +Hide Caption -Col. RJ Garcia addressing community members and military personnel during a meeting at Schofield Barracks, where discussions on local housing, environmental issues, and the construction of a new hangar at Wheeler Army Airfield were held to foster collaboration and solutions for the northern Oʻahu community. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army)VIEW ORIGINAL[Link] 4 / 4Show Caption +Hide Caption -Col. Steven McGunegle addressing community members and military personnel during a meeting at Schofield Barracks, where discussions on local housing, environmental issues, and the construction of a new hangar at Wheeler Army Airfield were held to foster collaboration and solutions for the northern Oʻahu community. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army)VIEW ORIGINAL
SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawai'i - U.S. Army Garrison Hawaiʻi convened a new public forum in Central Oahu, focusing on addressing community concerns and fostering dialogue among military personnel, local leaders, and residents of Central and Northern Oʻahu.
The meeting, led by U.S. Army Garrison Commander, Col. Steven McGunegle, kicked off with an overview of the ongoing initiatives and potential for growth in community partnerships. Col. McGunegle emphasized the military's commitment to supporting local issues, including recent involvement in extinguishing the Mililani Mauka wildland fire and the preservation of endangered species.
Councilmember Val Aquino Okimoto praised the Garrison for its proactive role during the fire and its ongoing efforts to manage land and resources responsibly. "Their dedication not only helps in crisis management but also enhances cultural access and environmental preservation. We thank the Army for its continued support of our community." Okimoto noted.
A significant focus of the gathering was the construction of a new hangar at Wheeler Army Airfield, marking the first large airfield project since the 1930s. Col. McGunegle highlighted the strategic importance of Wheeler, the only airfield on Oʻahu above sea level, crucial for emergency operations.
Col. R.J. Garcia, deputy commander-support, 25th Infantry Division, discussed the vital role of flight training at Wheeler Army Airfield. "Given the unique terrain and limited access routes, the airfield's readiness is essential for managing natural disasters," Garcia explained.
The conversation also turned to housing and living conditions for military personnel and their families. Col. Garcia outlined initiatives to integrate all service members, contractors, and civilians into on-base housing, which may alleviate the local housing crunch. "Our goal is to optimize available housing to benefit both the military and local communities," Garcia stated.
Environmental concerns were another critical agenda item. Col. McGunegle proposed partnerships with non-profit organizations to address homelessness and broader environmental conservation efforts.
Residents raised several issues, including the impact of military helicopters flying over residential areas and the unauthorized four-wheeling at Ka'ena Point State Park. Solutions discussed included adjusting flight paths and stricter enforcement of local regulations to minimize community disruption.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing dialogue and community engagement. "These discussions are invaluable. They allow us to address pressing issues and collaborate on effective solutions, "Col. McGunegle affirmed.
The productive dialogue at Schofield Barracks reflects the U.S. Army's dedication to maintaining strong community relations and addressing the needs of both military personnel and residents of northern Oʻahu.