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The Fort Bragg Regional Alliance (formerly known as BRAC Taskforce) will hold its annual Community Meeting on Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Snyder Memorial Baptist Church, 701 Westmont Dr., Fayetteville.

The Fort Bragg Regional Alliance represents eleven counties and 73 municipalities that are planning and preparing for the significant impact on our communities due to growth and other changes originating from Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) 2005 actions in and around Fort Bragg and Pope AFB. Over the next several years, our area will see gains of 40,000 military and civilian personnel and their families as the Army moves the U.S. Army Reserve Command (USARC) and U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM) from Fort McPherson, Ga. to Fort Bragg. These actions require planning and preparation to maximize the benefits to our state and region, according to the Alliance.

“The Regional Alliance is unifying and coordinating these efforts and provides a regional approach to the planning and implementation effort,” said the Alliance website. “The organization works with federal and state agencies, military departments and the installation to support transition actions, minimize the negative impact on the community, and maximize the economic growth potential. To the extent possible, the Regional Alliance works with existing organizations and agencies to utilize current capabilities and relationships.”

At the meeting, Bragg Alliance Board of Directors Chairman Greg Taylor will welcome guests before FORSCOM Speaker retired Lieutenant Colonel Jim Womack takes the floor. Featured speakers from the U.S. Army Forces Command Headquarters will address the audience, followed by USARC Speaker retired Col. Jim McCaskill.

Several other speakers will take turns before a break for lunch.

There will be enhanced technology classrooms for video demonstrations by Jeff Epps, director of technology and site administrator for Richmond County Schools.

Behavioral and Mental Healthcare will be addressed by Womack AMC and Veteran’s Administration, followed by Bragg Boulevard Corridor planning.

Curtis Charles of Fayetteville State University will discuss the Center for Defense and Homeland Security.

RSVP to reserve your seats by emailing jbellamy@bracrtf.com or by calling 910-808-4189.