I went to the Venice Town Hall meeting last Thursday night.
I heard a lot of wish list stuff, with few real ideas or results.
But, what I did realize is that there is a lot of land at the West L.A. Veterans property that is under-utilized, non-utilized or leased out to private concerns.
Supposedly, revenues go towards Veterans services.
Before leaving, I spoke with some city deputies. I floated an idea that would at least offer a safe environment for Veterans living in their cars, their RVs or their trailers.
Here is the email I sent to the elected officials/deputies:
Subject: Homeless Veterans
At the Venice Town Hall I spoke with some of you about meeting with Congressman Henry Waxman about getting the VA to open a parking area within the VA compound to vets living in their vehicles.
The property has:
1) A fence
2) Its own police
3) A hospital
4) Buildings with bathroom facilities
What is it we need to do in order to replace Enterprise Car Rentals, Laidlaw and others with minimal services to those who have served our country and are left out on the streets?
Please advise when a task force can be established and can meet to bring this to fruition.
Mr. Handal, Chair: West L.A. Neighborhood Council, may be contacted at www.sangennarocafe.com