Base, community leaders to create more partnerships Published June 17, 2014 By Contributed story WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- Air Force and Miami Valley community officials announced new partnership plans June 11 at the Prairies Religious Education Facility, Bldg. 229, 682 Chapel Lane, Area B. The Air Force Community Partnership Initiative is focused on leveraging base and community resources and capabilities for mutual gain, while reducing operating and services costs. Wright-Patterson Air Force Base formally kicked off its community partnership effort in February. One recent outcome was an agreement which makes two base swimming pools accessible to residents of neighboring communities. "Some of the faces may change, but I can assure you the Air Force is committed to partnerships. We are in for the long haul," said Col. Cassie Barlow, 88 Air Base Wing (88 ABW) commander. She added the difficult Department of Defense fiscal climate has forced the service to innovate and seek creative ways to meet the mission and deliver essential services. Additionally, Barlow and community leaders signed the Wright-Patterson Community Partnership Leadership Council Charter. The charter formalizes a structure to promote collaboration and development of new partnerships to support base missions and delivery of services to enhance the quality of life of Airmen, while also benefiting the communities neighboring the installation. The leadership council is comprised of several state and local community advocacy and economic development organizations, along with the 88 ABW, Air Force Research Laboratory and National Air and Space Intelligence Center.