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Homestead council backs public outreach to attract VA facility to city
Summary
Council members voted May 13 to start public outreach for a proposed VA hospital in Homestead and to launch a letter-writing campaign and other advocacy steps; Councilman Davis led the initiative and said the city has identified land and is working with Congressman Jimenez.
The City of Homestead City Council on May 13 approved a public outreach initiative to support bringing a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs facility to Homestead.
Councilman Davis, who led the presentation, said the city has set aside acreage for a potential VA facility and has been coordinating with U.S. Rep. Jimenez. “We are in the process, we've already talked with Congressman Jimenez as many of you are aware, he is all in on this effort,” Davis said. He described plans to begin a letter-writing campaign and other community advocacy to press Washington for a local VA presence and said the effort is intended to show broad local support.
Vice Mayor Fletcher and other council members voiced support and suggested additional tactics such as online petitions. The council opened and closed the public hearing without public comment and then voted to approve the outreach initiative; the motion was moved by Councilman Davis and seconded by Councilwoman Avila. The vote was recorded as unanimous.
Next steps: Staff will coordinate the outreach campaign and the city will invite partners and stakeholders to participate in letter-writing and public-awareness actions.
Why it matters: Council members said a local VA facility would reduce travel burdens for veterans who currently travel long distances for care and could serve as an anchor for veteran services in Homestead.
