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Veterans Affairs office reports millions in benefit awards; board adopts resolution of support
Summary
The county Veterans Affairs director reported increased VA benefit awards coming into Grand Traverse County and explained the office’s use of millage dollars and fund balance; the board unanimously adopted a resolution of support for the Veterans Affairs office.
The Grand Traverse County Veterans Affairs director presented the office’s annual report to the Board of Commissioners, highlighting the office’s role helping veterans file VA claims and the resulting benefits funneled into the county.
The director said the office's work generated sizable benefits for veterans in the last year, describing one figure as "a little less than $35,000,000" in awards for 2024 and later referencing "little lehi than $38,000,000" when summarizing VA benefit inflows. He also explained that the county’s veterans millage funds the Veterans Affairs office’s staff, benefits and operating costs and noted a multi-year fund balance the office uses to stabilize services.
Commissioners questioned how the millage and fund balance are being spent, asked for a clearer annual summary in future reports, and discussed outreach to partner organizations (including United Way-funded dental services and Safe Harbor) to track veterans served. The director said the office coordinates with shelter intake and has previously provided in-person outreach to connect veterans with benefits.
After the presentation Commissioner Andrews moved and the board unanimously adopted a resolution supporting the Veterans Affairs office.
Why it matters: The Veterans Affairs office uses local millage and other funds to support benefits claims assistance and direct services; the board’s unanimous resolution signals ongoing support while commissioners requested clearer, annual fiscal summaries to improve transparency.
The board approved the resolution by voice vote.
