VETERANS SERVICE AGENCY REPORT
August 6, 2026 - 12:00 PM
Director’s Report
§ Local Activities
o Last Committee meeting we discussed preventing Veterans homelessness.
Our staff was able to avoid two more veterans and their families from becoming homeless. We avoided five veterans (total) from needing to be placed in temporary housing. This was accomplished by effective advocacy providing retroactive pay due the veteran for disabilities incurred in service.
Many of our clients not only receive financial assistance, as some are eligible for VA medical and education benefits as well, further easing their already strained situation. We have continued to provide information and contacts to VA programs and County resources to help veterans avoid having future difficulties.
o On June 11th, I attended budget training including up to date entry procedures.
o On June 14th, I attended the Liberty Elks Flag Day Ceremony. Doug Sandberg of “Let’s Talk Vets” radio show was our guest speaker and did a fantastic job.
o On June 15th, I attended the Division of Community Resources meeting where we discussed potential budget changes and solutions moving forward for multiple county programs.
o On June 17th, I attended the Vet Fest planning meeting finalizing what VA programs and personnel would be most effective to attend.
o Also, on June 17th, I met with Legislator Cat Scott and Vietnam Veteran Tom Lundrigan to help finalize the Resolution amending burial eligibility in the County Veterans’ Cemetery. (Thank You Legislators)
o On July 8th and July 13th, I assisted the County Legal department with a mock trial to help formulate effective opening argument strategies.
o On July 14th, I attended a meeting with my Commissioner Laura Quigley, Director of Transportation Ruthann Hayden and Commanders from American Legion and VFW to discuss veteran’s transportation.
o On July 14th, I also attended NVLSP training that covered recent VA Court case decisions setting legal precedent on adjudication procedures.
o On July 17th, I participated in the Dwyer Coalition Meeting.
One organization (ONWARD OPS) has made a positive impact on the veterans in NYS. This non-profit provides sponsors to assist veterans with the transition from active duty to civilian life. In the last meeting we helped create a source guide for NYS specific services for veterans to include: employment, education, medical, disability and legal services.
o The NY Senate Bill S1183 will take effect on October 1, 2026, however, this bill is no longer mandatory state wide and must be approved by the local tax assessors.
o Still working on accurate data to provide the number of Sullivan County Veterans that would qualify for the 100% disabled property tax exemption.
VETERANS SERVICE AGENCY REPORT
August 6, 2026 - 12:00 PM
1. Veterans referred to Sullivan County Transportation for VA Medical Appointments:
Albany Castle Point Local
May 2 39 21
June 2 27 26
2. Veterans/Dependents buried in Sullivan County Veterans Cemetery through July 29, 2026:
Veterans Buried Alone . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,184
Dependents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Veterans/Spouses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 722
Total Burials in Veterans Cemetery - 2,056 (+27 since Dec. 2025)
3. Contacts:
May 206
June 315
4. Applications:
May 21
June 24
5. Homeless Veterans:
May 0
June 0
6. New Veterans
May 4
June 5
7. Phone Calls
May 802
June 818