Federal Deposit
Insurance Corporation

From: Hgalland@aol.com [mailto:Hgalland@aol.com]
Sent: Wednesday, October 20, 2004 11:00 AM
To: Comments
Cc: Rhaymaker@aol.com
Subject: RIN 3064-AC50

Robert E. Feldman
Executive Secretary
Attention: Comments/Legal ISS
FDIC

Re: RIN 3064-AC50

Dear Mr. Feldman;

I was surprised to read in the newspaper this morning the proposed changes in the CRA regulations. I have been in Chamber of Commerce Leadership groups with heads of small banks and I understand some of the difficulties, however, this appears to be a radical change. So much good has come from the CRA initiative. I know in Baton Rouge it was key in the development of our LISC initiative, which has created not only physical change, but also an informed group of community leaders in a part of the community that greatly needs them. My contacts in rural Louisiana have also benefited from the CRA and see this proposal as a step backward to our efforts in community development.

Is it not possible to create a proposal that would increase efficiency without dropping the number of participating banks from 1,138 to 227? I am sure your agency has the creativity to find a way to create incentives or assist in the process for smaller banks – especially those that are located in rural and inner city communities.

Sincerely,

Holley Galland MD, MPH
Department of Family Medicine
LSU Health Sciences Center