Seymour Johnson AFB privatizes base housing Published June 16, 2011 By Robin DeMark 4 FW/PA Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C. -- Providing safe, affordable, quality housing for Air Force families remains a top priority for leadership at Seymour Johnson. Housing privatization embraces the sense of community, support, and culture to sustain our military housing families throughout their career. On June 9, senior leaders from the 4th Fighter Wing and 4th Mission Support Group welcomed the newest members of Team Seymour--the Picerne Military Housing Group. "The Continental Group has selected Picerne Military Housing as the highest ranking offeror and is focused on improving the quality of life for our current and future residents," said Col. Anne Winkler, 4th Mission Support Group commander. "We are currently in exclusive negotiations and the due diligence period with the USAF. Seymour looks forward to working together to maintain and improve our vital military housing community." Privatized military housing generates many questions about eligibility, rent/lease agreements, utilities and options available during deployments. According to Buck Abrams, the 4th Civil Engineer Squadron asset manager, the base is taking a proactive approach by hosting chief and first sergeant group meetings to discuss this initiative and what it means for military members and their families. "This month our office will invite residents to a town hall meeting scheduled for July 26 at the base theater," said Linda Freeman, 4th Civil Engineer squadron capital asset manager. "To help answer questions before then, the base housing management office can provide informational brochures and Web links." Picerne program manager, Sharon Shore, will soon provide support to residents with approximately 35 staff members, maintenance and field technicians operating from the base housing facility. Picerne's proposal plans include building a Seymour Military Family Housing Community Center located in the heart of Berkeley Village. For more information about privatized housing call or email Linda Freeman at the base housing management office at 722-0594 or email linda.freeman@seymnourjohnson.af.mil. Also visit the SJAFB Web site www.seymourjohnoson.af.mil/newcomers.asp and click the Picerne Housing Privatization link. Additional resources can be found at the following Web sites: Fact Sheet: http://www.afcee.af.mil/resources/housingprivatization/Toolbox/phase4/index.asp Frequently Asked Questions: http://www.afcee.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-100127-115.pdf