Writer questions actions of Veterans Committee

Vox Pop

We are trying to save the taxpayers money. Sometimes we must make hard decisions. This was said by a Veterans Committee member. Interesting . . .

The Veterans Office Committee has 7 members. In 2022 the committee went from 3 to 7. So in order to save money they will pay 4 more people reimbursement for mileage and a wage for attending meetings. I am not a financial guru but to cut the spending, you spend more. That is interesting.

Since April 2021 the VSO has gone through 2 CVSOs and now going to be added another one picked by the same committee that hired the last one that didn’t stay. Interesting. I know that must cost more money to pay for transportation and for training to train the new CVSO. There again that is interesting . . . save money?

When you check the Webster definition of support you will see it states, be actively interested, and concerned for the success of (something or someone). We hear this constantly from the board members that they “support” the Veteran’s office and the Veterans; well, they have yet to show it. Where is the support for Nikki Sherman, she is the benefit specialist that has been cleaning up the mess and expected to keep the office running while they hire a CVSO? She struggles everyday to meet the demands of that office. She is strong but there is only so much that strong people can handle. Is that the goal of certain committee members to break her and leaving her no option but to quit for her own wellbeing?

I ask the board members that if they let the Veteran’s office do their job, what awful thing would happen? If each board member could tell the public and veterans how it would hurt Taylor County, I am sure we would all listen. I challenge every board member on the Veterans Committee to make a list and an explanation on what they know will happen (not what they think could happen) if they let the Veterans Office do their job and not question every little thing they do.

Please tell us what could happen! Also, I would like each board member to find multiple Veterans that have been treated badly by the Veterans Service Office since 2021. All I have to say is good luck.

Also ask the Veterans Committee why did one of the Veteran lay members on the committee step down. Add that to your list of explanations.

— Heidi Eisner, Medford