WASHINGTON, D.C.-- The Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) released its proposed plan to implement the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) law today. The plan would almost double the size of DFAS Limestone from its current number of 352 to 662 by fiscal year 2008. The expansion would occur in the next three years. DFAS Limestone should expect 150 new employees in fiscal year 2006, 84 in fiscal year 2007, and 76 in fiscal year 2008.
"We are extremely pleased with the DFAS implementation plan," said the Maine Congressional Delegation in a joint statement. "This is a testament to the hard work, dedication and overall excellence that the employees at Limestone have shown."
DFAS provides finance and accounting services to America 's military. The 2006 BRAC process mandates that DFAS reduce its overall footprint from 30 sites to 10. Limestone will be one of five remaining DFAS operations facilities around the country. The other five sites do not deal directly with client services.
In a press release issued today, DFAS Director Zack Gaddy said, "BRAC 2005 provides the opportunity to implement site consolidations, streamline DFAS operations, and support our goal to provide best value to the warfighter."
DFAS expects the required approval for the Department of Defense Infrastructure Steering Group some time next week. DFAS will then be able to move forward as soon as it receives funding through the fiscal year 2006 Defense Appropriations bill. Today, DFAS site directors will begin conducting briefings for affected employees.
Limestone can expect an increase in workload beginning in the summer of 2006. The implementation strategy envisions filling the required positions 45 days in advance of the increased workload to ensure a seamless transition for both DFAS employees and clients. Limestone will expand its vendor pay, corporate organizations, and Air Force Field Accounting missions, and it will also become the Center of Excellence for Transportation Working Capitol Fund Accounting. DFAS expects that between 10% and 20% of current employees at other facilities will transfer to Aroostook County while the remaining positions will require new hires.
"These jobs will be a welcome addition to the County," said Maine 's Congressional Delegation. “We are proud that the Limestone center is continuing its vital role of growing and strengthening the Northern Maine economy while providing exceptional service to the Department of Defense.”
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For more information, contact:
Antonia Ferrier (Snowe) 202/224-1304
Jen Burita (Collins) 202/224-2523
Mark Sullivan (Allen) 207/774-5019
Monica Castellanos (Michaud) 207/782-3704