VAC debates 'Legacy Veteran of the Year' award and tasks staff to design veteran discount program

Members of the Veterans Advisory Committee discussed a proposal to create an El Paso City "Legacy Veteran of the Year" honorary recognition intended to honor older veterans whose contributions laid the groundwork for current programs but who may not have the time or ability to serve as year‑long veteran ambassadors.

The proposer framed the award as a way to "honor veterans whose sacrifice, their leadership, and their long term impact on veteran communities remains invaluable even though they can't give the time they used to be able to give." Commissioners asked clarifying questions about eligibility (whether the honor would be limited to living recipients or could be awarded posthumously), whether the award would be limited to City residents, and whether the city effort would duplicate county recognition. The committee discussed potential forms of recognition (parade participation, plaques, flags flown over public buildings) and agreed to take the proposal to subcommittees to develop selection criteria before any vote.

Separately, the Employment subcommittee proposed creating a city/county veteran discount and veteran‑owned business designation program that would identify veteran‑friendly businesses and give participating merchants a decal and a listing on city and county websites. The motion to task staff (Tony and Luther) to draft the program and run a legal review was moved, seconded and approved; the chair announced the motion had passed.

Supporters argued the designation would help veterans find veteran‑friendly businesses and give participating businesses modest advertising benefits; critics urged careful legal review and clarification on which business types would qualify. The committee recorded the motion's passage and directed staff to return with a draft program and legal findings for future consideration.