TAMPA, Fla. — More than a dozen cases of mold and other issues in housing have been reported at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa.
- Cases of mold reported at MacDill housing units
- Some reportedly have resulted in health problems
- Lawmakers have held round table to investigate issues
Some cases have reportedly resulted in health problems. Other cases had financial impacts.
It is all part of what some lawmakers call a nationwide problem on military bases and a problem that is now the focus of discussions in Washington, D.C.
A closed door round table is taking place today - laser focused on the upkeep and safety of military base housing.
At MacDill, 16 cases of complaints by military members. Some of them that say they or their families got sick from mold or other issues.
Others have moved out due to health and safety concerns, only to be told they'd have to continue paying the rent. Representatives Gus Bilirakis and Vern Buchanan sit on the armed services committee.
"Active duty personnel, they are going overseas to protect us," said Rep. Bilirakis (R) 12th District. "And they shouldn't have to worry about their families getting sick."
The majority of on-base military housing in the U.S. is contracted out to private companies. At MacDill, Harbor Bay at MacDill oversees more than 500 units.
"They need to correct it because it's just not acceptable," said Rep. Buchanan (R) 16th District. "We just can't have men and women serve in the military and their families, and put their health at risk."
Harbor Bay officials did not respond when asked to comment.
After a Senate meeting Wednesday - Sen. Rick Scott said military housing complaints need a full review.
"We've got to figure out what's happening, and we've got to figure out why it's happening," Scott said. "All of our service men and women need to be able to live in a safe environment for themselves and for their kids."
It is clear some bases are struggling more than MacDill. Some have needed construction that has been stalled out - at other bases - drinking water is even a problem.
At MacDill, the complaints seem to be limited to mold issues - all of them, now getting a close look by lawmakers.