Veterans Service Officer asks county to cover costs while state delays grant disbursement

Gogebic County Veterans Service Officer John Frello told the Board of Commissioners on Jan. 28 that the county's 2026 County Veterans Service Fund grant is delayed and that state disbursement is taking longer than in previous years.

Frello said that, of 55 counties that applied for the grant, only 23 have received their funds to date. He asked the board to authorize use of the county General Fund to cover any costs the Veterans Office would normally cover with grant funds and explained that, once the office files its quarterly reports and the state disburses payment, the Veterans Office would reimburse the General Fund. Frello told commissioners he would not use any General Fund money until he receives confirmation that the grant has been approved.

Commissioner Lorenson moved and Commissioner Peterson supported the request, and the board approved the measure by roll-call vote: Lorenson, Matonich, Yon, Peterson, Cayer and Siirila voting yes; Commissioner Wood absent.

Why it matters: Local Veterans Service Offices commonly rely on the state County Veterans Service Fund to support outreach and benefits assistance. A temporary fronting of expenses by the county preserves services for veterans while creating an obligation for future reimbursement.

Next steps: The Veterans Office will continue to file the required quarterly reports with the state and request reimbursement once the grant is disbursed. The board directed county staff to track the reimbursement request.