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Group seeks formation of Williamson County Veterans Assistance Commission under 330 ILCS 45/0.01
Summary
Tom Harness, representing a coalition of local veterans service organizations, asked the commissioners to acknowledge formation of a Williamson County Veterans Assistance Commission and to work with the county on budgeting and levy mechanics; public comment emphasized anticipated return on investment from increased federal benefits assistance.
Tom Harness, who identified himself as interim president of the Williamson County Benefits Assistance Commission, asked commissioners to acknowledge formation of a Williamson County Veterans Assistance Commission and to begin the administrative steps necessary to receive county funds to assist veterans and their families.
Harness cited Illinois statutory authority and local bylaws in presenting the commission’s purpose. He referred to “330 ILCS 45/0.01” during his remarks and said the commission will provide immediate assistance to veterans for utilities, housing, food, gas and other needs as outlined in the group’s bylaws. Harness said the commission’s members include representatives of local veterans service organizations and that the group aims to begin operations at the start of 2026, if the county can help meet the formation timeline.
Commissioners and staff discussed levy and budget logistics, with one commissioner noting the process must align with the county’s timeline for levies and the treasurer’s office. Harness said the commission will prepare a budget for review and pledged to work with county staff on required audits and accountability; he also said office space may be available in county property recently purchased across the street from the courthouse.
During public comment, Liam Longivan, superintendent for the Franklin County Veterans Assistance Commission and a member of the Illinois Association of Veterans Assistance Commissions, urged formation and described the potential fiscal benefits of a well-run commission. Longivan said his commission has recorded a 28% return on investment in its first year and reported 23% year-to-date against budget for the current year; he told commissioners that Williamson County’s VAC could expect positive returns on federal benefits assistance within a few years.
Commissioners expressed support for the proposal and asked staff and the proponents to coordinate next steps, including budget preparation and timelines to conform with county levy rules. No formal vote to create the commission or to commit funding was recorded in the transcript; the discussion focused on acknowledging the group’s formation plans and coordinating administrative and budgetary work.
Harness and proponents said they will return with a proposed budget and supporting documentation. Commissioners asked the group to work with the treasurer and county legal staff to ensure statutory compliance and to meet levy deadlines if the group seeks a county levy for funding.
