In a recent government meeting, Grand County Veterans Service Officer Duane Daley presented the latest Geographic Distribution of VA Expenditures (GDX) report for fiscal year 2023, highlighting key statistics regarding veteran services in the region. The report indicated a slight decrease in the number of veterans receiving benefits, with Grand County losing one veteran from the previous year. However, the total compensation and pension benefits remained stable, increasing marginally from $3.8 million to $3.892 million.

Daley noted a significant drop in insurance and indemnity benefits, attributed to the aging veteran population, which saw a decrease from 59 to just 7 recipients. Additionally, the report revealed a decline in the number of veterans receiving VA health care, from 228 to 223, although the total VA expenditures for the county rose to $7.387 million, reflecting a $1 million increase in receipts.

Commissioners discussed the unique challenges faced by veterans in accessing medical care, particularly the lack of tracking for community care services that could provide insights into local economic impacts. The conversation highlighted the high percentage of veterans residing in Grand County compared to other counties, raising questions about the factors contributing to this trend.

In a positive development, Daley announced that the county had been re-awarded a veterans assistance grant aimed at enhancing mental health services for local veterans. The meeting concluded with a brief update from Project Manager Jeff Hickam regarding the D2C architectural contract for EMS Station 1 in Granby, signaling ongoing efforts to improve community services.