Proposed Relocation of the Air Force Communications Service Headquarters from Missouri to Illinois

The proposed relocation of the Air Force Communications Service (AFCS) from Richards-Gebaur Air Force Base, Missouri, to Scott Air Force Base, Illinois was studied. The Air Force estimated the proposed changes would save about $23.9 million annually, result in one-time costs of about $34.5 million, and avoid-time costs of about $5.8 million.

GAO estimated the proposed AFCS move would result in annual recurring savings of about $19.6 million, one-time costs of about $33.4 million, and one-time cost avoidance of about $6.1 million. Most of the recurring savings are due to reduced staffing requirements. The Air Force estimate for savings from reduced operations at Richards-Gebaur is lower primarily because of different bases used to estimate the cost of providing base operating support. The Air Force also overlooked certain continuing operating costs which would result in a lower savings estimate. Personnel transferred to Scott and other bases would encounter waiting lists for on-base housing and would need to be paid quarters' allowance. Relocation costs are estimated at $425,247 less than the Air Force estimates, and equipment and facility renovation costs are estimated at $625,593 more than the Air Force estimates.