Advertisement - Click to support our sponsors.

251 may lose jobs
in Army privatization

---

Star-Bulletin

The Army revised its figures today and estimated that 251 civilian maintenance, supply and transportation workers could lose their jobs as part of its plans to privatize operations at Schofield Barracks, Fort Shafter and Pohakuloa Training Area on the Big Island.

Originally, Col. William Puttmann, commander of the U.S. Army Garrison, said 278 jobs would be affected in January when BAE Systems of Fort Walton Beach, Fla., begins its five-year, $59 million contract.

BAE's bid was $1.4 million lower than the Army's proposal.

Amy Alie, Army spokeswoman, said 27 affected employees were placed in vacant positions this morning. She did not know what types of positions were filled.

Yesterday's announcement follows a four-year study to determine whether the operations should be contracted out to private industry or remain as government-operated functions.

The International Association of Machinists & Aerospace Workers said it would appeal the award.

If the contract is upheld, it could become effective in January.