NW Kansas News

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), co-chair of the Senate Defense Communities Caucus, introduced legislation to expand the authority of Department of Defense (DoD) base commanders to enter into intergovernmental service agreements (IGSAs) with local communities.

IGSAs enable military installations and communities to form mutually beneficial agreements. These partnerships enhance local collaboration and support while allowing the military to save money on certain goods and services. Currently, IGSAs are limited to ten-year agreements, available through specific funds, and prohibit inter-agency collaboration with surrounding communities. The new legislation aims to broaden the scope of IGSAs, saving taxpayer money and fostering increased investment between military communities and installations.

“Our military installations in Kansas have led the way in demonstrating the value of integrating our military bases with the surrounding community,” said Sen. Moran. “This legislation will help reduce costs for the DoD, improve services on the base and increase valuable investments in our military communities.”

Fort Riley in Kansas recently partnered with a local school district through an IGSA for two major barracks renovation projects. This partnership saved the Army approximately 50% on project costs, achieved over 80% procurement time savings, stabilized the contract workforce supporting Geary County Schools, and reinvested over $14 million back into the school district.

“Intergovernmental support agreements have saved DOD and taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars, all while improving services on our installations that support missions, military families, and defense communities,” said a statement appreciating Sen. Moran's leadership in expanding this authority. “It will allow the military and nearby communities find even more partnership opportunities and government efficiencies. This legislation drives home the idea that national security starts at home.”