Major contributor linked to controversial hospital expansion.

The major contributor to newly-elected Councilwoman Laurie Ender’s campaign is the driving force behind the proposed expansion of Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital, according to campaign finance statements released today.

Richard Gottlieb, President of G&L Realty, the hospital’s partner in the expansion, made a $30,000 contribution to the Citizens for Integrity In Government, headed by Armando Azarloza. The group then paid Aaron, Thomas and Associates $29,500 for a mailer on Ender’s behalf. Aaron, Thomas and Associates bills itself as “a full-service political direct mail and printing agency.”

In addition, half of Ender’s 44 contributors are directly affiliated with HMNMH, generating $2,550 in personal donations from doctors or medical entities doing work with the hospital; $820 from hospital foundation members and $960 from hospital staff, including a personal $300 donation from President and CEO Roger Seaver.

The hospital’s expansion plan returns to the City Council at its regular meeting September 9.

Councilwoman Ender was on vacation Friday and unavailable for comment.