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Goodhue County veterans services report highlights debate over ride donations
Summary
At a Committee of the Whole meeting, the county veterans services presenter reported rising expenditures and detailed claims data and commissioners rejected making a $20 rider donation mandatory, agreeing to pursue grants and fundraisers instead.
The Committee of the Whole heard an annual report on county veterans services that included claims figures, VA benefit counts and a detailed discussion of the county’s veteran ride program. The presenter said the county is tracking interactions in VetPro since September 2022 and reported rising veteran-related expenditures; commissioners expressed support for the program but voiced concern about funding pressure on the levy.
"A mandatory $20 donation is a no go," the presenter said, confirming the office will not require the previously voluntary rider donation after hearing commissioner objections. Chair (speaker 1) stressed the board wants to support veterans but noted a preliminary levy request of roughly a 20% increase and said the county must consider ways to reduce pressure on taxpayers.
Commissioners and participants proposed alternatives including targeted fundraising, pursuing grants and asking veterans service organizations for larger contributions. Commissioner (speaker 5) said the amount of county support — roughly $35,000 from the county budget in 2025 as presented — is a modest community investment and urged seeking outside funding before altering the program's voluntary donation structure. The presenter said the office will pursue grant training, contact the Association of Minnesota Counties and coordinate fundraisers with local VFW and American Legion posts.
