As commanding officer of Naval Weapons Station Earle, Colts Neck, I wish to extend my thanks to the many local citizens who attended and participated in the public scoping meeting held on Nov. 27 at Brookdale Community College. The scoping meeting was an opportunity to gather public input relating to the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) currently under way, and to evaluate alternatives in providing access to the sec. 801 Housing here at Naval Weapons Station Earle.
Your comments and concerns were much appreciated and will be properly considered in the EIS process as we move toward the 2010 requirement to provide access which will allow the developer to rent to civilians.
As expected from comments I’ve seen so far, you’ve highlighted some very important issues regarding this action.
Of particular note, many of you are concerned with the impact this action will have on security here at Earle. Let me assure you, security is something we take very seriously.
Although we cannot discuss the details of our security posture, I can personally attest that our security staff is professional, proactive and vigilant.
I can also assure you that Naval Weapons Station Earle’s security has my personal detailed attention on a daily basis.
That being said, I am confident that we will only move forward to leasing the 801 housing tract when all of our security concerns are met.
It is the view of the Department of the Navy and our security professionals at Earle that security will not be compromised as a result of this proposed action.
Comments and concerns regarding possible impacts to the communities, such as increased school enrollment, will be carefully studied over the next few months and will be taken into account as we get closer to the 2010 deadline.
Many important steps remain before this process is complete, and I promise to keep you up to date and informed along the way. I also encourage and welcome your continued involvement.
Your comments from the scoping meeting will be addressed in the draft EIS that is scheduled to be available for your review next fall. At that time, you will have another opportunity to publicly comment on the issue.
The hard-working and professional sailors and civilian employees here at Naval Weapons Station Earle appreciate all that you in the local communities provide for them and their families.
The harmonious relationship we share with our neighboring communities and neighborhoods is very important to us and we strive to continue this relationship well into the future.
Finally, we want to thank you for the forum to explain our positions and we look forward to cooperatively crafting solutions that serve both our community’s interests and the needs of our collective national security.
Capt. Gary A. Maynard
Commanding Officer Naval Weapons Station Earle
Colts Neck

