Fuel costs this winter to affect off-base housing residents

  • Published
  • By Capt. Tammy Colvin
  • 354th Comptroller Squadron
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Members preparing for the winter months who recently purchased heating fuel have noticed a significant impact to their personal checkbooks.

At $4.20 a gallon, heating fuel has increased 66 percent over last winter (when a gallon cost $2.53). With the substantial increase in utility costs this winter, it is paramount members financially prepare for the impact to personal budgets.

For Alaska residents eligible for the Permanent Fund Dividend, some relief is in sight. In addition to the annual PFD, the Alaska state legislature has approved a supplement of $1,200 per dividend recipient to help offset the fuel cost increase. The supplement will be paid in conjunction with the dividend with payments beginning Sept. 12. Members are strongly urged to be financially prudent and use the supplement for its intended purpose.

For those concerned with their ability to meet rising utility costs, base housing may be an option. Personnel residing in base housing do not pay utility costs. Those interested in moving to on-base housing should contact the local military housing office for availability.

Other fuel-saving initiatives are available. Besides turning down the thermostat a few degrees and wearing more clothes around the house, wood and pellet burning stoves can supplement fuel costs. Although the initial purchase may be significant, long-term savings may offset the initial investment for those planning on residing in their homes for an extended period.

Finally, wing leadership is engaged with Headquarters PACAF and Air Staff concerning the feasibility of an out-of-cycle basic allowance for housing rate review to account for the escalated fuel prices. We'll explain this process in more detail in a follow-up article in next week's Polar Press.

That said, while wing leaders are working this process aggressively, they do not control the final determination. Therefore, members should not plan on a change in BAH rates to solve budgeting shortfalls. In the meantime, if you have questions about BAH or other military pay issues please contact us at our customer service line, 377-1851 or e-mail 354cpts.customerservice@eielson.af.mil.