WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Mark Warner met with Secretary of the Army Dr. Mark Esper Wednesday to discuss what the Army is doing to resolve serious hazards in military housing reported at several bases in Virginia.
An investigation by Reuters uncovered significant problems in base housing, like cockroaches, mice, mold, and leaks. In the investigation, Reuters identified problems at several facilities across the country, including Fort Belvoir, Quantico, Oceana Naval Air Station, and other military bases in Hampton Roads.
“Our nation’s military families deserve better than this. They deserve safe and healthy housing, free from mold, lead, pests, and other hazards,” said Sen. Warner. “In our meeting today, I told Secretary Esper that I expect the Army to make improving military housing conditions a top priority and hold accountable any companies who may have profited off the mistreatment of military families.”
This isn's the first time Sen. Warner was involved in military housing concerns. Back in November, Warner sent a letter to Secretary of Defense James Mattis regarding the “unacceptable conditions” documented in the homes.
In August, he also pressed Secretary Esper to address problems with lead poisoning affecting families at several Army bases around the country, including Fort Belvoir. Sens. Tim Kaine (D-VA), David Perdue (R-GA) and Johnny Isakson (R-GA) were also involved in contacting Esper.
