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Local veterans press commissioners over community-center access and a removed portrait
Summary
VFW and American Legion leaders urged commissioners to intervene after a dispute at the county community center, asking that a veteran's portrait be restored and that veterans have reliable access and recognition; commissioners agreed to follow up and address security and lease issues.
John Stanfield, who identified himself as mayor of Metolia, told the Jefferson County commissioners during the Sept. 3 public‑comment period that a letter and decisions by the community‑center board had hurt seniors and veterans and requested a county apology and intervention.
"I want the senior board to understand that the VFW, the Veterans Healing Memorial…we're not subordinate partners. We're co partners," Stanfield said, and asked the board to restore a portrait and consider a second plaque for the VFW auxiliary. He also raised concerns about an elderly constituent in poor housing conditions and asked the county to help.
Mike Williams, who identified himself for the record as the commander of the local VFW and adjutant for the American Legion, described missing paperwork and security problems. "There was a mic, somebody...and the community center was open. It was locked when we left," Williams said, urging the county to ensure veterans can access offices where records and veterans-related services are kept.
Alan Alderman, a local veteran and District 5 commander, urged commissioners to treat veterans as a community resource and to provide them a physical place to gather. Commissioners said they would take several steps: Commissioner Taylor said she would push for veterans' access and staff indicated cameras and rekeying were in process; staff also offered to provide the county’s current lease and a list of senior-board members for review.
The board described several levels of involvement: cosmetic and placement decisions for plaques were left to the nonprofits, while county staff suggested working with the senior-board and veterans to resolve access and security questions. Commissioners asked staff to coordinate a site visit and to report back on potential lease and security changes.
