San Jose VA Center plans new housing and improved veteran support services

The County of Santa Clara Finance and Government Operations Committee convened on June 24, 2025, to discuss various issues affecting veterans and their services in the region. The meeting highlighted ongoing efforts to improve facilities and support systems for veterans, as well as the challenges faced in reaching out to the broader veteran community.

One of the key topics addressed was the condition of veteran facilities, particularly the Vermont site, which has recently transitioned to a mental health focus. Concerns were raised about the state of the facility, with reports indicating that many veterans had to be temporarily housed in hotels due to inadequate conditions. The committee emphasized the need to learn from this situation to avoid similar issues in the future.

Additionally, discussions included the potential acquisition of land behind the San Jose VA Center to expand housing options for veterans. The committee expressed a desire to engage with landowners to explore this opportunity further.

A significant point of concern was the need for a larger and more appropriate office for the Veterans Service Office (VSO) team. Current arrangements do not allow for confidential meetings between veterans and their counselors, which is essential for effective support. The committee noted that this request had been previously approved in October 2023 but had not yet been acted upon.

Transportation services for veterans were also on the agenda, with the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) offering a dollar-a-ride program. The committee plans to disseminate more information about this initiative to ensure veterans can take advantage of it.

The meeting also touched on staffing challenges within the public defender's office, which has seen cuts that affect services for veterans and underserved populations. The committee expressed a need for additional public defenders to better serve the community.

A recurring theme throughout the discussions was the difficulty in disseminating information about available services to the approximately 30,000 veterans in the area. The committee acknowledged the gap between those who are aware of the resources and those who are not, emphasizing the importance of outreach and communication.

Finally, the committee addressed the complexities surrounding the caregiver process for veterans, particularly those affected by Agent Orange. The need for simplification in this area was highlighted, as many veterans and their families struggle with the current system.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the committee's commitment to improving veteran services in Santa Clara County while also recognizing the significant challenges that remain. The discussions will inform future actions and initiatives aimed at better supporting the veteran community.