11/4/1981 (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

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Service Department, took the floor. Mr. Dilallian did not see where Mr. Cook would have to give up the numerous activities he listed just because a budget is cut down. He noted that whenever he had occasion to visit the Veterans Service Office, he never had to wait more than five minutes, and he could not see that the workload is enough to justify an additional person. Mr. Dilallian continued that the government has mandated that services be cut back, and the Veterans Administration has done this in Riviera Beach. He felt Mr. Cook will just have to put in more time, shorten the interviews, and cover the situation. Mr. Cook noted that he does not work for the VA - he works with them. He explained that he requested an increase in staff because the veteran population in the County has gone from 6,600 to 19,000, or more than tripled. Another taxpayer, Mr. Pallatine objected to Mr. Cook spending time to help veterans with their income tax when there are two banks which will help them free. Chairman Lyons commented that obviously Mr. Cook is doing much more than he is called on to do, and while we commend his philosophy, we must sort out whether the services that are really required justify the extra -person. Commissioner Wodtke stated that he has been involved with Mr. Cook and has seen what he has accomplished, and he felt it is a blessing for the veterans in this county to have the dedication of Mr. Cook to help them.. He noted that unless you are desperate and need these services, you cannot really appreciate what is being done. He believed that the benefits that are coming into this county from the Veterans Service Office warrant an additional expenditure, and he would like to leave the extra person in the budget. Motion was made by Commissioner Wodtke, seconded by Commissioner Bird, to leave the requested additional assistant for the Veterans Service Officer in the budget. 3 nm 48 PAGE_ 01