Webster County veterans affairs director asks commissioners to add part‑time hire, fold grants into FY2027 budget

Dan Levenduski, Webster County veterans affairs director, presented the department’s fiscal 2027 budget to county commissioners on 2026-01-29 and asked that two items be regularized in the standing budget: a $10,000 state grant and roughly $3,000 in reimbursements tied to national conference attendance. He also requested approval to hire a part‑time staff member to provide continuity when the director is absent.

Levenduski said the proposed budget largely mirrors previous years because department expenditures have not materially changed. "Basically, as always in the past years, it's mirror everything from the previous years because really nothing's changed as far as our expenditures," he said. He asked that the $3,000 reimbursement be budgeted under the expenditure line where it will be spent, suggesting the 'school instruction' line.

Why it matters: Commissioners and veterans advocates said a dedicated part‑time employee would reduce gaps in coverage that leave the office closed for extended periods, limiting the county’s ability to help veterans enroll in benefits. "The main complaint of veterans out there is the office being staffed," Levenduski said, urging that continuity would improve service.

Commissioners and staff discussed implementation details. Levenduski said he has been interviewing candidates but a replacement director has not been selected and the salary for the incoming director has not been set. Commissioners and staff agreed that any finalized salary offer will need coordination and board approval and that an amendment to the current budget will be required if the board approves additional pay or the new part‑time position. County staff advised that reimbursements routed to the county general fund must be budgeted in the department’s expenditure lines to reflect the funds properly.

During discussion, Rich Lennon, identified in the meeting as chairman of the Veterans Affairs commission, framed the staffing request as an investment in outreach. Lennon estimated that "through the Veterans Affairs, new money coming into this county is $34,000,000," with substantial portions going to disability and medical care for veterans; he argued increased coverage could raise the number of veterans who enroll and bring more federal dollars to the county.

Jim Peterson, a county commissioner speaking during public comment, echoed that view: "If the more people that we get signed up for benefits, the more money's coming into the county," he said.

Remaining questions and next steps: Commissioners and staff asked how the county wants to receive salary proposals and recommended starting coordination with Crystal (county staff) to track necessary budget amendments. Levenduski said the part‑time position being proposed would likely be about 30 hours per week and that staffing would be adjusted to ensure coverage when the full‑time director is on leave. He also noted operational items including an upcoming office move intended to avoid service disruption.

No formal motion or vote was recorded on the budget changes during the meeting; staff will bring proposed salary figures and any budget amendment forward for board consideration and public discussion.