Fort Leonard Wood South Gate hours dominate Texas County Day at State Capitol

Tuesday, March 5, was the first annual Texas County Day at the Missouri state capitol in Jefferson City.

Hosted by Rep. Bennie Cook (R-Houston), the day was an event for constituents to discuss issues and legislation, network and tour the capitol. While representatives from various organizations throughout Texas County were in attendance, one topic that came up repeatedly was the reduction in the hours of access at the South Gate of Fort Leonard Wood.

Representatives Brad Hudson and Travis Smith had previously attended the South Gate town hall in Roby. Smith remarked that it was clear to him that the closure is having a huge impact on the South Gate communities, and it should have been a “no-brainer” to keep the gate open. Both had previously expressed support for the south gate communities on social media and reiterated their support at Texas County Day.

There was some discussion between Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft and constituents about federal issues versus state issues relating to Fort Leonard Wood and its policies and relationship with the surrounding communities. While the South Gate hours are technically a federal issue, it will have a trickle-down effect on several counties in the state when incoming active-duty military, retirees, and those supporting the military choose not to live out the south gate because of limited installation access. A decreased population results in less sales and tax revenue for counties, decreased funding for several schools out the south gate, and decreased property values. Ashcroft conveyed his support of the south gate communities and the efforts to reestablish 24/7 access to the south gate.

Residents of Texas County also met with Sen. Karla Eslinger and she said she had contacted leadership at Fort Leonard Wood about the South Gate hours and felt they had not provided her a viable reason for closing it.

At the conclusion of the event, Cook said neither he nor Congressman Jason Smith are done with the issue, and they will continue to do what they can to help restore 24/7 access to the South Gate of Fort Leonard Wood.