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Black Hawk County veterans office reports $2.4 million in fiscal-year retro pay, prepares move to remodeled office
Summary
The county veterans affairs director told supervisors on July 8 that June saw 25 approved claims and that retroactive payments to veterans and surviving spouses totaled about $2.4 million for the fiscal year. The office expects to complete a remodel and move late in July and reported outreach and referral activity to housing and service partners.
Black Hawk County Veterans Affairs Director Evangelist told the Board of Supervisors on July 8 that his office approved 25 claims in June and that retroactive benefit payments to veterans and surviving spouses totaled about $2,400,000 for the fiscal year. The office reported steady client traffic during the year and ongoing outreach to partner programs for housing and rapid-rehousing assistance.
Evangelist said the department held its commission meeting recently, hosted state-level visitors and has scheduled an internal move of its remodeled office around July 28. Work remaining includes addressing heat-related issues affecting drywall and painting and final installation of interior glass and fixtures. He thanked county staff and the county supervisors for support of the remodel.
The office reported about 10,683 veterans served over six years, including 1,972 new veterans during that period, and noted a continuing high share of Vietnam-era veterans among clients. The director said statewide comparisons show Iowa ranks 45th of 50 states in veterans receiving compensation — an observation he described as a challenge for outreach and benefits access.
Veterans Affairs staff also reported 44 referrals to partner agencies for housing help and an increase in donations of gift baskets and other direct-assistance items. The office noted it will return with annual reporting in December and invited board questions about staffing and program outreach.
