From: Bo Yerxa [mailto:BoYerxa@Powerlink.net]
Sent: Tuesday, October 19, 2004 11:01 PM
To: Comments
Subject: Regarding potential weakening of CRA RIN number 3064-AC50

Bo Yerxa
P.O. Box 3404
Augusta, ME 04330

October 19, 2004

Federal Deposit Insurance Commission

Dear Federal Deposit Insurance Commission:

As a rural development practitioner with decades of experience in New England and New York (& graduate degrees in community planning and economic development, I write in opposition to the FDIC raising the comprehensive CRA exam threshold.

I agree with the National Congress for Community Economic Development that this proposed change would have a devastating effect on affordable housing and community development investment throughout the nation, particularly in rural areas. This action would take one of the few tools available to CBO's engaged in supporting affordable housing and economic development in both rural and urban settings.

I strongly urge that you rescind your proposal.

Sincerely,
Bo Yerxa