Maintenance reductions coming Published Feb. 17, 2012 By Marie Vanover 377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs KIRTLAND AFB, N.M. -- Budget constraints across the Air Force have required Kirtland Air Force Base officials to "dig deep" and re-evaluate services and programs across the installation to determine the best use of limited resources. As a result, the base maintenance contract level of services has been reduced. According to Brent Wilson, base civil engineer, reductions in services will take effect March 1 and include the following major changes: Facility painting will be reduced, which may create a backlog of painting requirements and will affect how often dorm rooms are painted. Currently, dorm rooms are painted when there is a change of occupancy. Civil engineer support for special events, such as change of command ceremonies, retirements and outdoor events, such as the base's "Summer Bash," will be eliminated. Policing and trash pick-up of some grounds throughout the base will no longer be conducted and maintenance of grounds will be limited. Herbicide and fertilizer will no longer be applied. Major facility repairs will now be individually considered and funded, which may delay the repair actions. Wilson said that while the level of services in some areas is being reduced, essential services will continue under the contract, to keep the base safe and operational.