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Why Grand Forks Enhanced Use Lease is a Proven Model for Other Bases

Update The Grand Forks Enhanced Use Lease: A Groundbreaking Model The Enhanced Use Lease (EUL) between Grand Forks County and the Grand Forks Air Force Base is increasingly recognized as a pioneering solution to maintaining military installations while fostering economic growth. Designed during a time of significant uncertainty for the base, the EUL has evolved into a model for similar arrangements nationwide. A Leap of Faith: Transforming Challenges into Opportunities The inception of the EUL was born out of necessity in the mid-2000s. After Grand Forks Air Force Base lost its tanker mission, the local community faced intense pressure to diversify its economic reliance away from the military base, which historically contributed $600 million annually to the local economy. Local officials banded together to explore options that would safeguard their livelihoods, leading them to devise an innovative scheme centered around the integration of unmanned aircraft systems in the community. The pilot initiative, GrandSky Aviation Park, became the first commercial unmanned aircraft systems park in the U.S. and was established through the EUL, serving as a quintessential example of how military land can be leveraged for economic development. As noted by Grand Forks County Administrator Tom Ford, the agreement was no easy sell and required a significant leap of faith. Many community members voiced skepticism, fearing it would lead nowhere. Innovative Collaboration: Combining Military and Civilian Objectives One of the key aspects of the Grand Forks EUL is its successful blending of military operations with civilian economic initiatives. According to Laurel Falls from the Air Force's Department of Public Affairs, Grand Forks' approach to integrating industry, education, and development with its military mission sets it apart from other military installations. Other communities that attempted similar initiatives often focused on less synergistic models. In contrast, Grand Forks considers collaboration with entities such as Northrop Grumman and General Atomics crucial to its success. Lessons Learned: What Other Bases Can Adopt As the Air Force promotes the Grand Forks EUL as a ‘poster child’ for other bases, several key lessons emerge from its execution. First, defining clear objectives that align both military and community interests is critical. Second, the importance of local leadership rallying around a unified vision cannot be overstated. The collaboration among the county commission, City Council, and Economic Development Board played a vital role in turning the EUL from a concept into a reality. Finally, the Grand Forks experience illustrates the significance of maintaining open communication channels between military and civilian sectors. The partnerships have not only created economic incentives but have also positioned Grand Forks as a leader in UAS technology, addressing future military needs while sparking civilian advancements. Impact on the Community: More Than Just Economic Growth The impact of the Enhanced Use Lease extends beyond economic statistics. The presence of GrandSky Aviation Park has resulted in new high-paying jobs and enhanced local educational opportunities, thereby solidifying the community's long-term economic health. It has also helped to maintain a stable population in schools, alleviating fears about potential declines in education funding due to base closures. Commissioner Cynthia Pic reflects on the broader implications of the EUL, stating, "We had to do something to drive more economic development in our county." The entrepreneurial spirit fostered through the EUL has revitalized a sense of hope, especially amid fluctuating agricultural markets. Future Prospects: Expanding on a Successful Template As we look to the future, the potential for more Enhanced Use Leases like the one in Grand Forks is evident. Other military installations grappling with similar issues can draw inspiration from this innovative framework. While challenges remain, the key takeaways from Grand Forks point to the viability of developing mutually beneficial partnerships that support economic viability while maintaining vital military operations. The relationship between local government and military leadership serves as a blueprint for communities seeking to secure their bases while ensuring economic sustainability. Officials are already fielding inquiries from other communities keen on recreating Grand Forks’ success, indicating that the trend of leveraging military lands for regional economic development is set to gain momentum. To explore more about how the Enhanced Use Lease can fit into other communities' strategies, remember to stay informed on national military news updates and local economic developments. Advocating for innovative partnerships can ensure the future of both military bases and the surrounding communities.