Health & Human Services staff told Cowlitz County commissioners that the veterans relief assistance fund has built reserves and the advisory board may recommend using some of the balance to pay for a dedicated staff position to help veterans complete assistance applications.

Gina James, HHS, described the assistance program, statutory levy funding and categories of aid (rent, food, burial, miscellaneous). She said the program currently brings in roughly "just under 200,000 a year" in revenue and that the account has built to about "$1,000,000" in fund balance. "What we have is about 1000000 dollars of fund balance that is, in the account," James said.

Advisory-board members have suggested a recommendation to fund a full-time position — either county-hired or contracted — to increase access and help veterans complete applications. Commissioners questioned whether a salaried position should be paid from an annual assistance levy that is otherwise intended for direct benefits. One commissioner asked for metrics demonstrating the impact of a paid position versus volunteers; HHS staff said the county’s veteran service center processed roughly 80–100 applications in 2025 and that volunteers (12–15 screeners) currently handle most intake.

Board members discussed alternatives, including using funds for one-time capital projects (housing units or targeted facilities) that could create long-term benefits rather than a recurring salary. HHS agreed to return with more detailed options and metrics on application volume and volunteer capacity.

What’s next: HHS will compile metrics on applications, clarify administrative costs, and present options for one-time projects versus recurring staffing.