FORT JACKSON, S.C. -- Fort Jackson community members concerned about issues affecting the installation will have the opportunity to provide input during the next town hall meeting from the comfort of their own homes.
The quarterly town hall meeting, which is slated for 6 p.m., Tuesday, at the Solomon Center, will be broadcast on the Internet and at-home participants will have the ability to ask questions live.
"The purpose is to try and reach as many individuals as possible, (and is especially) for those who may not be able to attend," said Lewis Kellam, Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization and Security supervisor operations officer. "They can log on to the web and be part of the meeting."
Although the last town hall meeting was recorded and broadcast over the Internet, this is the first time it will be live and allow interaction.
"I think it is a great idea. I have seen it work at other installations," said Robert Frazier, Directorate of Emergency Services. Frazier will brief attendees on the Ready Army program, which is designed to prepare Soldiers and their families for emergencies. "It is a good venue, but I think it is going to take some time to get the participation desired."
Participants will have the option of e-mailing their questions in advance of the meeting or asking a question live via chat. Those with web cams will also be able to broadcast their faces, which will viewable on a large screen at the Solomon Center.
The town hall meetings typically average 40 to 100 attendees. Many attend the events in a work capacity.
"We are attempting to use all of the resources available to try and communicate with those who live and work on Fort Jackson," Kellam said. "The goal is to get feedback for the garrison commander to make the best decision for those on post."
Balfour Beatty representatives will also provide an update on construction projects in the family housing area.
"I think we will probably have more families living on post attending online versus braving the cold and coming outside," said James Harper, Balfour Beatty project director.
Harper will brief attendees on the number of new homes becoming available and the amount of demolitions they can expect to see.
"The town hall meeting is a good avenue for information and a place to get your questions answered on the spot," Harper said. "All of the experts are there. It is the best forum on Fort Jackson to get issues and concerns heard."
Army Community Services will also brief the audience on the Single Parent Initiative and AAFES will provide an update on upcoming sales and construction.
To be a part of the town hall live visit www.MyVSL.com/fortjackson1; to submit a question before the meeting e-mail JACKSON_townhall_questions@conus.army.mil.
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