VA HOSPITAL
Our vets deserve better care than VA’s currently providing
As a former military officer, but more importantly as an American citizen, the deplorable management issues at the Veterans Administration hospitals are disheartening. “Shakeup at troubled VA” (News, Aug. 8). For those who have served our nation to be treated with less than quality medical services is unacceptable. Having firsthand experience with local VA medical facilities, I see the delayed appointments, rushed visits and other areas needing improvement. The problems reflect poorly upon the entire hospital and staff, but many issues are beyond their control. The combination of tighter budgets, increased demand, fewer personnel and mismanagement have created the perfect storm for trouble. I am fortunate I can afford private insurance, but for many of my brethren, the VA is their only lifeline to health care.
The good news is that problems are coming to light and positive changes being made. Better news will be when all necessary improvements are in place and our veterans receive the medical care they were promised and deserve.
MICHAEL L. SHAW, STONE MOUNTAIN
JEKYLL ISLAND
Fed-backed hotel loan underwent normal USDA scrutiny
I would like to clarify a story regarding a privately financed, federally-guaranteed loan to develop a hotel on Jekyll Island. “Jekyll Island embraces rural side” (Business, Aug. 4).
The project was criticized as not being in a sufficiently “rural” area to warrant a loan guarantee from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This area is indeed eligible as set forth in USDA statutes.This statutory definition of “rural” is set by Congress, not USDA.
Additionally, this loan underwent the same scrutiny as every other USDA Business and Industry program loan guarantee. These loan guarantees are provided to eligible applicants on a first-come, first-served basis. All loans are reviewed under the same criteria. This loan met these standards.
USDA will continue to support sound investments that will spur economic growth and create jobs in rural America.
QUINTON N. ROBINSON, STATE DIRECTOR, USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT
GWINNETT COUNTY
SPLOST proposal would stand better chance with more accountability
Gwinnett County is proposing another SPLOST. “Gwinnett to seek 3-year SPLOST” (Metro, Aug. 7). Do I want better roads, parks, libraries, and services? Yes. Am I willing to pay more for these improvements? The answer is maybe. I have been a resident of, and voter in, Gwinnett County for over 32 years. I have seen the good the bad and the ugly. The current problem with county, state, and national government is that transparency and accountability are merely hollow buzz words tossed around to appease voters.
Here’s an idea: Suppose there was a quarterly audit of the SPLOST funds that accounted for every penny and how it was spent. The audit would be conducted by a reputable, qualified accounting firm chosen by a non-political taxpayers committee and the results published quarterly. Although it would appear to be a waste of money, I think that the cost of the audit should be paid by the SPLOST proceeds. Accountability and transparency come with a price. Any deviation from the original SPLOST proposal would be dealt with immediately. Perhaps a tar-and-feather would be appropriate.
JOHN KRAMER, LAWRENCEVILLE
