FT. MONMOUTH, NJ (October 11, 2007) – At the request of Lieutenant Governor Anthony G. Brown, key representatives of state agencies – joined by members of the Chesapeake Science & Security Corridor (CSSC) – participated in the Employee Relocation Fair at Fort Monmouth October 10 and 11. The participation of the Maryland delegation in the relocation fair was part of an ongoing outreach to Fort Monmouth employees affected by the November 2005 Base Realignment and Closure decision.
“We understand the challenges faced by Fort Monmouth employees and want to ensure they have the information they need to address those challenges,” said Lt. Governor Brown. “This was an opportunity for us to promote Maryland’s outstanding quality of life, superior educational system, broad career opportunities, and variety of housing options. Through outreach efforts like this, Maryland is honoring its ongoing commitment to assist the Fort Monmouth community in facilitating these decisions and to further support the Army’s role in the defense of our nation.”
Led by BGen Mike Hayes USMC (Ret.), managing director of the Office of Military and Federal Affairs in the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development, the Maryland contingent included representatives from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development,the Department of Transportation and Maryland Transit Authority, the Maryland State Department of Education, the Maryland Higher Education Commission, and the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation. Also participating in the relocation fair as part of the Maryland delegation were representatives of the Chesapeake Science & Security Corridor (CSSC), which includes Baltimore, Cecil, Harford counties and Baltimore City in Maryland; York and Lancaster, Pa.; and New Castle County, Del.; as well as two metropolitan planning councils (Baltimore and Wilmington), the Greater Baltimore Committee and the Economic Alliance of Greater Baltimore.
Organized by Fort Monmouth, the event provided an opportunity for employees to learn more about the prospective move to Maryland. Maryland’s delegation provided the employees with information on housing, spousal employment, educational, and recreational opportunities in Maryland.
The 2005 BRAC decision is expected to bring 45,000 to 60,000 jobs and 28,000 households to Maryland. One-third of those currently employed are expected to move to Maryland with their positions.