The Coming Base-Closure Wars

Cities and states gear up to defend local military bases amid the Defense Department's plans to eliminate nearly a quarter of the military's infrastructure.

1 minute read

November 30, 2004, 9:00 AM PST

By Chris Steins @planetizen


"Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld aims to eliminate nearly a quarter of the military's infrastructure, which is considered surplus to the Defense Department's long-term mission of fighting terrorists and limited wars. The closures could equal all the reductions in the four previous rounds of consolidation combined.

Texas voters approved a $250-million bond to help the state retain its massive military presence. Massachusetts has unveiled a $410-million plan to defend its bases. Florida, Georgia, and Virginia are also pushing aggressive efforts to defend their bases and gain new jobs."

Thanks to Governing News

Monday, November 29, 2004 in The Los Angeles Times

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