Saving Local Bases With Lobbyists – And Partnerships

Spurred on by the threat of base closings in California, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has hired the lobbying firm of Clark & Weinstock to help forestall cuts to the 62 military installations in his state. Other states and communities have taken even more proactive approaches since the last round of base closings in 1995. Base-closing experts estimate that millions of dollars are being spent for lobbying and guidance, and many are being hired far earlier in the process. Some communities have also worked to make their locations more appealing by ensuring room for future base expansions, improving area schools, providing municipal services and recruiting grassroots lobbies from people who do business with the base. While the lobbying is dramatic and likely to receive media attention, these proactive efforts may be more relevant over the long term.