28th BW enacts Resident Council, disseminates Tenant Bill of Rights

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Hailey Staker
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

In May, the 28th Bomb Wing enacted the Housing Resident Council for families living in privatized housing on Ellsworth Air Force Base.

Made up of active-duty personnel and spouses living in base housing, the council was created to maximize feedback and communication between residents, 28th BW leadership, the Military Housing Office (MHO), and Balfour Beatty Communities.

“The primary goal is to elevate the quality of life for residents in base housing by identifying trends or processes that can be improved, and soliciting ideas for improvements, amenities, activities and events for the community,” said Jim English, the 28th CES capital asset manager.

Residents who wish to become part of the council can volunteer for the program through their respective first sergeant and will be responsible for various actions during their tenure on the council.

“Actions include obtaining feedback from residents on all aspects of living in base housing and working with the Resident Advocate and/or others to enhance the quality of life for all BBC housing residents,” English said. “Council members may also participate in resident recognition programs, volunteer as judges in community events and contests, plan and coordinate resident events, and assist with administrative tasks to support the council.”

English added another goal of the council is to identify better ways to promote awareness of resources and assistance available to residents. One of those resources includes the Military Housing Privatization Initiative Tenant Bill of Rights.

“The Tenant Bill of Rights was passed through the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act and became effective June 1,” English said. “It provides basic rights to residents that are designed to establish clear expectations, protections, and resources available to residents in privatized housing.”

The bill includes 15 rights, with an additional three still in negotiation, to include maintenance history, dispute resolution, and withholding of rent. 

To read the bill in full, click here.