Posted: 4/4/06
Veterans service could go full-time
By David Heiller
Argus News Editor
Houston County needs a full-time veteransí service officer, Rob Gross told commissioners at their March 28 meeting.
Gross currently splits his time between veteransí service and emergency management. But that is becoming a very difficult thing to do, he said in a 15-minute discussion with the board.
Things like lay-offs, health insurance, and a growing number of Vietnam War-era veterans who are using his services for the first time have added to his veteransí service job, he said.
Gross said he can help veterans access education, and get food and housing assistance, dental work, and eye glasses. ìI know what we can deliver to the vets,î he said.
Minnesota now has its largest deployment of National Guard members since World War II, Gross added.
Emergency management has grown too, with more meetings and exercises required, he said, and there are concerns about hazardous materials and security.
Commissioners didnít make a decision, but they will take up the iissue at their April 4 meeting. They will likely consider a proposal that personnel director Tim Comstock presented last week to combine the emergency management position with a security/safety officer.
The new job description is eight pages long. It would include courtroom security, something that the county board discussed several times last year at the urging of then-sheriff Mike Lee.
Comstock said he would have court administrator Darlene Kuhlers review the job description. If passed, it would be posted internally at the sheriffís department, he said.
Other business
ï Reno development approved: The board approved a plat for Reno Riverview, which consists of three lots along Highway 26 in Reno. The middle lot is limited and would have deed restrictions, zoning administrator Bob Scanlan said. Each lot would have its own driveway onto the frontage area along the highway, he said. The land is owned by Pat White of Sparta, Wisconsin.
ï Public health reports: The board approved the Local Public Health budget and expenditure report.
Commissioners also approved the statewide outcomes for the Local Public Health Act. County public health director Linda Grupa said it focused on improved pregnancy outcomes and helping children access services. The county works with kids as young as four months of age at WIC clinics and in homes, she said.
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