That is rarely the case. In some cases there is no other way but having base in certain areas like let's say San Diego.
But, I already gave you an example of the city where I live and work in that sector. It is all about politics! You mentioned that few people will get rich. That is not how this works. Military bases are huge tax revenue base. They spend money on rent, groceries etc. Why do you think CO fought tooth and nail to keep SpaceCom? Next is maintenance. All maintenance, repairs, and upgrades are done by local companies located in that state. Civilians from local cities are employed there. That is why BRAC was such a hot topic in 90's. NDA is by far the most gruesome process in Congress, and that is because every representative wants to bring military projects to their own district. That guarantees their job. Again, look at list of military installations in Colorado Springs. It does not make any strategic sense. But, everything is politics.
