FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. — Residents have one more week to submit nominations for community mayors of Fort Leonard Wood’s family housing areas.

“Mayors assist in getting issues resolved by referring residents to the proper people to get issues addressed. Mayors also have a direct line to the housing chief and the garrison commander if they feel that a resident’s issues are not being addressed adequately or quickly,” Directorate of Public Works Housing Division Chief Mike Estright said. “We strive to make living on Fort Leonard Wood a positive experience. There is always room for improvement, and the mayor program has served as a great touch point for feedback.”

Any resident can nominate someone for mayor if they meet the requirements.

“The nominee must be 18 years of age; must have at least 18 months remaining at Fort Leonard Wood and must live in the housing area they wish to represent,” Estright said.

To make a nomination, residents can submit the name with their respective housing area community center or to the Housing Office in Bldg. 470 before Feb. 29.

Estright said residents who make good mayors are, “involved in the community, want to make a difference and are passionate about their surroundings.”

Sgt. 1st Class Eric Hawes, a U.S. Army Military Police School instructor, has been the North Stonegate Community’s mayor for the past two years.

“I enjoy serving and supporting our community and helping new Soldiers and their families adapt to situations,” Hawes said. “I like to be able to provide answers and guidance when residents are facing issues or concerns.”

According to Estright, mayors having the information to help neighbors through issues is one of the most important aspects of the program.

“Mayors have to be knowledgeable and abide by all policies and procedures to better educate and lead residents,” Estright said.

Mayors also oversee community wide events, gatherings and area clean ups.

According to Hawes that is the best part about being a mayor.

“Having overwhelming community involvement is just heartwarming,” Hawes said.

Estright said having residents volunteer to represent their neighbors is “vital” to open communication with Fort Leonard Wood’s senior leaders.

“We have a great command team here that really cares about the quality of life of the residents that are living on post,” Estright said.

According to a January email sent to residents by Balfour Beatty Communities — Fort Leonard Wood’s housing partner — incentives to become a neighborhood mayor include a reserved parking spot at the Commissary, a $100 Army and Air Force Exchange Service gift card, and a coupon book from the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation for activities, such as golf, swimming and fitness classes.

Residents can vote for their community mayor from March 11 to 18 by filling out a ballot in their community center or at the Housing Office in Bldg. 470.