Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. letter to Dennis Smith, October 19, 1999

ROBERT L. EHRLICH, JR. COMMERCE COMMITTEE ASSISTANT DEPUTY MAJORITY WHIP Congress of ttjc Hmteb States 2|ouSe of ftepregentatte (E®atff)mgton, ©C 20515-2002 October 19, 1999 Mr. Dennis Smith, Director, VA Maryland Health Care System 10 South Greene Street Baltimore, MD 21201-1544 Dear Mr. Smith: LUTU60VIUA. MD 21093 (1101337-7222 Sure 204 Thank you for meeting with me to provide an update regarding the future of the Fort Howard Veterans Administration Medical Center (FHVAMC). There has been little negative response to this proposal with most constituents contacting my offices expressing positive reactions, especially among members of various veterans’ organizations. Moreover, it appears among those who initially opposed the proposal, most understand some action must be taken before FHVAMC is closed because of the deteriorating conditions. I would, however, like to point out that many people at the public meeting in Edgemere had deep reservations about independent living homes and assisted living units being operated by non-VA entities. Chief among those concerns was the affordability issue, especially for veterans of limited means. These reservations have been echoed by others contacting me since the meeting. While it is imperative all sides continue to engage in an open, honest dialogue regarding this matter, I firmly believe we are on the right track. I would like to commend you and your staff for your hard work and assure you I remain fully committed to the FHVAMC campus revitalization. Looking forward to working with you on this and other matters in the future, I remain, Very truly yours, Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. Member of Congress VI 'd и\гч Hd/,0 : 1 1 966 1 ■ 18- JBH