Board Minutes February 2006

8/8/2019 Board Minutes February 2006

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EXHIBIT 1WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

WDVA Briefing of February 21, 2006Madison, Wisconsin

Board Members Present WDVA Staff Members PresentWalter Stenavich John A. Scocos, SecretaryKen Wendt Bill Kloster, Deputy Secretary

Anthony Hardie, Executive Assistant

Legislative & Program Review Members Present Bill Crowley, Commandant, KingRuss Alsteen John Rosinski, Chief Legal CounselKevin Kavanaugh Glen Brower, Commandant, Union GroveBill Hustad Ken Abrahamsen, Office of Policy & BudgetVern Lovley Colleen Holtan, Budget OfficeBud Mautz Ken Black, Veterans BenefitsDuane Miskulin Ken Grant, Veterans CemeteriesTim Thiers Seth Perelman, Div. of AdministrationPaul Weprinsky Tom Rhatican, Div. of Veterans HomesVictor Vela Larry Kleinsteiber, Policy Advisor

Julie Van Metre, Executive Staff AssistantLong Term Care Committee Members PresentWalter Stenavich, Board Member Council on Veterans Programs Present

Chuck Taylor Russ Alsteen, NCUSAChris Kornkven Paul Bialk, MCLJon LiDonne Pat Brown, USSVWWIIArnold Miller Rick Cherone, MOPHKen Koon Walter Peterson, Am Ex-POWsJerry Rabetski Rick Gates, CVSOAVera Roddy Bill Hustad, WVVDavid Gough Ken Kuehnl, DAVCharles Allen Steve Lawrence, VFW

Bud Mautz, Am. LegionFinancial Committee Members Present Jerry Rabetski, PLAVConnie Allord Vera Roddy, UWVMike Demske William Sims, NABV

Jim Gausmann Clif Sorenson, WACVOMary Meyer Jack Stone, PVAJohn Solis Tim Thiers, AMVETSJim Endres Paul Weprinsky, JWVBob Morzenti Steve House, VA

Ron Rutkowski, VVAWCVSO Advisory Council Members PresentRick Gates, Polk CVSO Others PresentHolly Hoppe, Oconto CVSO Ellen Blissenbach, Gold Star WivesJohn Solis, Rock CVSO Michael Borg, VFW Post 2778John Margowski, Waukesha CVSO Ken Brown, Ozaukee CVSOTed Mynyk, Iowa CVSO Donna Chrzas, Columbia CVSOJim Young, Vernon CVSO Ted Duckworth, Am. Legion CommanderMike Haley, Chippewa CVSO Roger Fetterly, Military Officers AssociationBob Wilson, Langlade CVSO Mike Gunner Furgal, VFW AdjutantDon Lander, Clark CVSO John Glothe, American Legion

Mark Grams, Dodge CVSOWalter Hahn, VFW Post 721Rudolph Hartland, VFW Post 659Annette Howards, Marine Corps LeagueMichael Jackson, Dane CVSOChris Johnson, Bayfield CVSOTwiggy Johnson, VFWChris Jordan, Walworth CVSOFred Kaiser, Waushara CVSO


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Others Present Continued from Page 1Chris Kanos, VFW Post 2588Al Kochenderfer, VFWMary Lex, Langlade CVSO OfficeKerry Metoxen, Oneida TVSOKen Nawrocki, Am Legion Post 355Dar Schuff, LAMOPH PresidentLee Schuff, MOPH CommanderLarry Smerling, Winnebago CVSOAnn StenavichWilliam Stiefvater, Cmdr 6th Dist Am. LegionTom Taber, Grant CVSOTony Tyczynski, Sauk CVSO

The briefing session by WDVA staff for Board, Council and Committee memberscommenced at 12:30 pm. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. It was noted that thenotice of meeting was posted in accordance with the open meetings law.

1. Certification of Notice of Meeting and Roll CallRoll call of Board members: 2 members present; 5 members excused. Quorum not met.

Roll call of Legislative and Program Review Committee members: 9 members present, 3members excused. Quorum present.Roll call of Long-Term Care Committee members: 10 members present; 2 membersexcused. Quorum present.Roll call of Financial Committee members: 7 members present; 3 members excused.Quorum present.Roll call of Council on Veterans Programs members: 19 members present, 2 membersexcused, 3 vacancies. Quorum present.Roll call of CVSO Advisory Council members: All 9 members present.

2. Legislative ReportAnthony Hardie

Mr. Hardie said the post budget spring veterans package was introduced and ismoving through the legislative process as Assembly Bill 1034 and Senate Bill 613.Assembly Bill 1034 had a public hearing February 21st with executive action expected inthe week. Senate Bill 613 will have a public hearing on February 22nd. The legislationhas several provisions:

It allows DVA to transfer money from the appropriation account for the veteranshomes to the Veterans Trust Fund, limiting the amount that may be transferred to$16,000,000. The Department will take a very cautious and prudent approach toany possible transfer. A final decision as to the amount will be made sometimebefore the end of BY07.

The second major provision proposes to restore 3.29 positions to our computer

and information technology division, and exempt us from the proposed serverconsolidation. The consolidation would have cost the Department approximatelyone million dollars over the next three years. There are privacy concernsregarding the handling of health records as well as federal privacy act lawsdealing with military discharge papers. The current consolidation effort does notadequately address the necessary support and coordination required to managelarge servers at the King and Union Grove Homes.

The third major provision of AB 1034 and SB 613 expands the Wisconsin GI Billfrom 50% tuition remission for veterans to a full free 100% tuition program forWisconsin veterans. This bill also removes the eligibility requirement that the


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veteran was a resident at the time that he or she incurred at least a 30 percentservice-connected disability rating. The bill expands the tuition remissioneligibility to include unremarried surviving spouses and children of veterans whowere residents of this state at the time of entry into service and who, while aresident of this state, died as the result of a service-connected disability. Thecurrent expansion of the Wisconsin GI Bill would save the Veterans Trust Fundapproximately $2.3 million in the first two years of its enactment.

Mr. Hardie highlighted other pieces of legislation that the Department ismonitoring:

Assembly Bill 50 and Assembly Bill 88 of particular significance to the Council onVeterans Programs.

Assembly Bill 258 that would amend labeling of generic prescription drugs. Thiswould have an impact on the Wisconsin Veterans Homes.

Assembly Bill 447 that dramatically expands the regulation of elevators in thestate, including both passenger and freight elevators at the Homes.

Assembly Bill 383 that will mandate employee background checks for certainstate employees in positions of significance. We are in support of this for all ofstate government.

We are in support of Assembly Bill 683 and its companion, Senate Bill 354, whichwould expand medical authority of advanced practice nurse prescribers to allowfor those direct care professionals to begin writing prescriptions for drugs to theirpatients.

We have weighed in on Assembly Bill 738, privacy issues with regards to socialsecurity numbers and exempting military discharge papers.

The QVMB conference committee has been named and is currently reviewingthe tax relief extender package. The Texas Land Commission and the CaliforniaDepartment of Veterans Affairs have indicated that they are no longer supportive of thelegislation because it would have a negative impact on their states. At this point the

provision remains in the legislation and the conference committee is reviewing it.

On the federal side, we have seen the introduction of the latest federal budget.The State Home Construction Grant Program is at $85 million, the same numberapproved for FY06. The State Cemetery Program stays at $32 million. We are taking alook at perhaps another state veterans cemetery in the Fox River Valley area and havebeen exploring the possibility of a joint state veterans home in Superior with the Stateof Minnesota.

3. Programs ReportKen BlackMr. Black gave an update on Bulletins sent out since the last briefing.

#725 addresses the Departments Primary Mortgage Loan interest rate changefrom 5.99% to 6.3%

#727 addresses the Retraining Grants period and lifetime limits, other availableassistance, as well as grant payment criteria.

#728 addresses the Assistance to Needy Veterans income limit change from100% to 130% of the federal poverty guideline.

#729 makes another change to the Primary Mortgage Loan interest rate from6.3% to 6.5%.


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The Department continues to focus its efforts on filling the Veterans AssistanceProgram beds at all three sites. Sixty-six of the seventy beds are filled. To date there isa 12% increase over last year. We are receiving more veterans at the MilwaukeeService Center. On the average, 205 veterans are served per month with November,December and January coming in at 301, 255 and 345 respectively.

This semester was the first semester for the VetEd pre-application and to datethe Department has received 1,500 pre-applications. Additionally, 900 applications for

the Program have been processed.

As of February 1, 2006 the Assistance to Needy Veterans income poverty limitwent from 100% to 130%. There has been an 84% increase in the number of grantscoming to the Department within the last three weeks due in large part to theadministrative change to the poverty level income limits.

The distribution of loans is up. Currently, we are putting together a marketingplan to increase the veterans awareness about our product, primarily in the areas ofPersonal and Home Improvement Loans. The delinquency rate for the month ofJanuary was 2.47%, up over the past two months by one-tenth of a point.

Transportation grants were recently distributed in the amount of $100,000 to 35counties to assist in transporting veterans to medical appointments to the different VAmedical facilities across the state.

4. Veterans Homes ReportCommandant Crowley said 14 individuals are approved for admission into King,

and 28 other applications are in various other stages of review. The average length oftime from the date of application to the date of admission is 42 days. At the end ofJanuary the census at King was 721 members. The special care unit at Ainsworth Hallhas the highest demand.

The Home Exchange reported a net loss of $403.93 for December and January.Part of that is attributable to the inventory swell in the month of December.

Current projects at King: An alternate site for Well #2 has been tested and found to be of extremely high

quality. The actual well can be drilled in late spring or early summer of 2007.Well #1 is ready to go on line as soon as the spring thaw arrives.

Nurse call system upgrade hardware system has been completed. Total billed tothe federal VA is $401,356 and $400,500 has been received to date.

MacArthur Hall ventilation system upgrade is up and running. There are some

final adjustments but the federal VA has been billed for $264,345 and to datehave received a little over $227,000.

The steam condensate line replacement is on hold to resume again in March. Stordock Hall domestic piping replacement grant from the federal VA has been

awarded up to $724,000; the work is completed and the federal VA has beenbilled for that full amount

Projects submitted to the VA for FY2006 include window replacement at OlsonHall and Well #2. They are on the list as Priority One Projects; however, nofunds have been set aside by the VA for this fiscal year.


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In FY2007 we will be submitting to the federal VA for funding of the ceilingmounted patient lifts at King. The State Building Commission approved that lastweek.

The cook-chill went fully on-line on February 8th.

The unified fundraising effort for the buses for King and Union Grove is a goodnews story. A $110,000 check from an individual who pledged that amount in matchingfunds was received. Other money continues to come in and the fund has a current

balance of $226,550. At this point several checks were presented to CommandantCrowley for the bus fund: $2,000 from AMVET Post 99, $100 from VFW Post 659, $100from American Legion Post 88, $500 from Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 731,$1,000 from Disabled American Veterans Chapter 24. The generosity shown to add tothe quality of life for the veterans at the Veterans Homes is greatly appreciated.

Commandant Brower reported that the census at the Union Grove Home as ofthe end of January was 106. There are 15 pending applications. The Home reflects apositive $80,000 cash flow increase in operating income due to the VA per diempayments periodically received. The Union Grove Home has 94 employees andestimates having another 187 employees over the next year to year and a half.

Construction projects: The substantial completion date of the120-bed skilled nursing facility is now

projected to be March 15th. We will, at that time, be able to start moving furnitureinto the building. There are a number of major issues that still have to be workedout before that March 15th date. To date the federal VA has paid $9,000,000 ofthe $13,000,000 granted for the construction of the skilled nursing facility.

The chilled water project has been completed and to date, $1.1 million has beenreceived from the federal VA.

The food service project, connected with King, continues to move along. Asubstantial completion date is projected for 1 March.

Calendar year 2005 saw a total of 309 inquiries into the assisted living facilities atUnion Grove. Twenty-five percent of referrals were generated by the VA MedicalCenter, particularly Zablocki, and eleven percent from families and friends, followed bysocial workers, private hospitals, CVSOs, walk-ins and internet inquiries. Over 39presentations were made in CY05 to an audience of almost 1,100 veterans, primarily insoutheastern Wisconsin. This summer the DVD marketing tool will be updated.

The Commandant recognized the Military Order of the Purple Heart, the VFWand motorcycle guests who participated in the Christmas party. They contributed to theevent both financially and with manpower. On March 12th there will be a St. Patricks

Day party from 11 to 1. The dedication for the skilled nursing facility will be May 20th.

When a member is lost through death, the Commandant mails to the immediatefamily a CD of military related songs softly played on a piano along with a sympathycard. These have been very well received.

5. Financial ReportKen AbrahamsenMr. Abrahamsen presented financials as of January 31, 2006. The King Home

had an operating income of $920,000. Kings cash balance increased by $777,000 butis still $2.1 million less than it was at June 30, 2005. A retro payment of nearly $18


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million is expected within the next two to three months. The Union Grove Home had apositive operating income for the month of January of $81,000. Cash uses haveexceeded cash receipts by $1.3 million through the end of January, resulting in anegative $2.54 million cash balance.

The Veterans Trust Fund reports operating expenses exceeding revenues by$934,661 during January. The year-to-date operating losses total $4.8 million. Themonth end cash balance for January was $30.1 million, which is $80,000 higher than

was the June 30, 2005 year end cash balance.

The Mortgage Loan Repayment fund had a positive income of $787,000 inJanuary which helped to reduce the year-to-date net loss from $3.4 million to $2.6million. The cash balance increased by $1.6 million in January to $114,999,538. OnMarch 1 there will be a call on prepayments totaling $13,520,000 and that will be usedto call both the tax exempt and taxable bonds.

The delinquency rates in the overall Veterans Trust Fund and the PLP haveremained very consistent over the last several months and are currently 2.47% and2.43% respectively. The delinquency rate for the Primary Mortgage Loan Fund

increased slightly in December 2005 to eight-tenths of one percent.

During January 2006, the Department received 15 applications for primarymortgage loans, which is three times the number received in January 2005.

6. Process Action TeamsDeputy Secretary Kloster talked about the Process Action Teams (PATs) that are

going on within the Department. Seth Perelman is chairing a PAT on eligibility to tryand better define an honorable discharge. The composition of that group includesDepartment personnel, veterans service organization and CVSO representation. Thefinal report of that PAT will make recommendations for consideration at the upcoming

budget cycle. The Secretary also directed that a panel be formed on PTSD toinvestigate what is currently being done and what can be done to help veterans whosuffer from PTSD. The composition of the panel includes Mr. Kloster as chair andCVSOs, representatives from the USDVA hospitals, Vet Center personnel, counselorsand social workers. The panel is to produce a report that may include recommendationfor possible budget initiatives in the FY08-09 budget.

Mr. Black has pulled together three PATs with the intent to review some of theDepartment programs and recommend improvements if necessary. The purpose of theVedEd PAT was to streamline the existing VetEd Program to ensure it was user-friendlyto Wisconsins veterans and to ensure we served the maximum number of eligible

veterans. The team of ten members includes CVSOs, IT and Legal, universitypersonnel as well as subject matter experts. Another PAT is looking at the efficiency ofthe Assistance to Needy Veterans Program. Two items were addressed, dental carelimits and disaster components-loss of income. The team of six members includes twoCVSOs, legal representative and the subject matter experts. Finally, a PAT for theTransportation Grant Program is being formed to review the program in order todetermine if we could do a better job at ensuring the veterans needs are being met.The team will consist of nine members.


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7. Recess/AdjournmentBoard Chairman Wendt concluded the briefing session and announced that the

CVSO Advisory Council meeting would reconvene at 1:30 p.m.

The WDVA briefing concluded at 1:20 p.m.


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M I N U T E S

CVSO ADVISORY COUNCIL

February 21, 2006

Madison, Wisconsin

Members Present Others Present

Holly Hoppe, Oconto Charles Allen

John Solis, Rock Connie Allord

John Margowski, Waukesha Russ Alsteen, Navy ClubRick Gates, Polk Ellen Blissenbach, Gold Star Wives

Mike Haley, Chippewa Ken Brown, Ozaukee CVSO

Ted Mynyk, Iowa Cleon Pat Brown, USSVWWII

Jim Young, Vernon Donna Chrzas, Columbia CVSO

Bob Wilson, Langlade Mike Demske

Don Lander, Clark Jim Endres

Gunner Furgal, VFW Adjutant

Members Excused Jim Gausmann, LaCrosse CVSO

Noneall were present David Gough

Mark Grams, Dodge CVSO

WDVA Present Walter Hahn, VFW Post 721

John A. Scocos, Secretary Annette Howards, Marine Corps LeagueWilliam Kloster, Deputy Secretary Michael Jackson, Dane CVSO

Anthony Hardie, Executive Assistant Christine Jordan, Walworth CVSO

John Rosinski, Chief Legal Counsel Fred Kaiser, Waushara CVSO

Ken Black, Division of Veterans Benefits Kevin Kavanaugh

Bill Crowley, Commandant, WVH-King Ken Koon

Glen Brower, Commandant, WVH-Union Grove Chris Kornkven

Colleen Holtan, Budget Office Steve Lawrence, VFW

Julie Van Metre, Executive Staff Assistant Jon LiDonne, Waupaca CVSO

Vern Lovley, Jefferson CVSO

Bud Mautz, American Legion

Kerry Metoxen. Oneida TVSO

Mary MeyerArnold Miller

Duane Miskulin

Robert Morzenti, Iron CVSO

Walter Peterson, Am. ExPOWs

Jerry Rabetski, PLAV

Vera Roddy, UWV

Ron Rutkowski, VVAW

Dar Schuff, LAMOPH President

Lee Schuff, MOPH Commander

Larry Smerling, Winnebago CVSO

Clif Sorenson, Eau Claire CVSO

Walter & Ann Stenavich, Board MemberJack Stone, PVA

Tom Taber, Grant CVSO

Chuck Taylor

Tim Thiers, Manitowoc CVSO

Tony Tyczynski, Sauk CVSO

Ken Wendt, Board Chairman


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1. Call to Order and Roll Call.The meeting of the CVSO Advisory Council was called to order at 12:30 p.m. to hear a

WDVA briefing (see Exhibit 1). The Council stood in recess after the WDVA briefing. A

quorum was present at the WDVA briefing and upon reconvening at 1:30 p.m.

2. Certification of Notice of Meeting.So noted.

3. Approval of Minutes of December 8, 2005.It was moved by Mr. Wilson, seconded by Mr. Young and carried on a voice vote to

approve the minutes of the December 8th CVSO Advisory Council meeting.

4. Announcements and Introductions

Rick Gates, CVSO Association President said that two members of the CVSO Advisory

Council have terms that expire in April 2006, they are Bob Wilson, from the Northeast

Association and John Margowski from the Southeast Association. It is the responsibility of the

Association President to nominate CVSOs to fill these two four-year terms. He recommended

that the Board of Veterans Affairs favorably consider his nomination of Nick Benzinger to

represent the Northeast Association and Mark Grams to represent the Southeast Association on

the CVSO Advisory Council.

5. Public Input

Michael Jackson had an experience where he submitted two electronic applications for

the PLP. He faxed the supporting documents with the first application. The Department

acknowledged receiving the applications for two loans but only receiving supporting documents

for one loan. Mr. Jackson asked the Department to copy the documents faxed over for the first

loan because the applicant was using the same property for the second loan. That was done.

Recently, a veteran applied for a PLP and a HILP but Mr. Jackson did not submit them to the

Department at the same time. The PLP was submitted two weeks before the HILP. After

submitting the HILP Mr. Jackson asked the Department to copy the supporting documents that

were sent earlier with the PLP. The answer from the Department was that it could not do that

because we can make no assumption that everything is the same when a veteran applies for more

than one loan. One of the major reasons WDVA adheres to this policy is the fact that legal

descriptions can virtually change over night, another being that the responsibility has to be on

the veteran himself to provide these documents when applying for each loan program. That way

there is no debate when and if the question arises regarding a legal description or later when a

title company has discovered a different situation where additional fees may be incurred. Mr.

Jackson said the veteran already provided the information and wondered if it was necessary for

CVSOs, in situations like that, to recopy the same paperwork and send it again. Secretary

Scocos said he would have someone look into the matter.

Mr. Walter Peterson, Ex-POW, received a letter from Norway concerning an honorable

discharge. The veteran was stationed along the coast from Burma to China before the war; he

became ill and was in the Manila Hospital when WWII started. When he got well, he

volunteered his service in the Army Transportation Corps. The Japanese bombed and sank two

tugboats he was on, the Army surrendered to the Japanese and he was a POW throughout the

war. A year ago Mr. Peterson met the veteran in Norway and found out he did not have an

honorable discharge. A week ago he finally received his honorable discharge.

6. Secretarys Matters


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Secretary Scocos said the Salute to the Legislature is an important day for us to thank the

legislators for what they have done during this last budget. Assembly Bill 1034, the post budget

veterans package, was introduced and had a public hearing. Over 80 Senate and Assembly

members have co-authored this bill. The Department is preparing for the next budget and will be

conducting a stakeholders conference to assist in the budget development.

7. Council Members Matters (Not Subject to Adoption)

Mr. Margowski, on behalf of the Advisory Council, presented Julie Van Metre with a

bouquet of flowers to thank her for what she does for the Council and all the Committees of theBoard.

After a debate with WCTC, Waukesha County, Mr. Margowski learned that they were

not going to go back and give veterans a tuition remission. He emailed Secretary Scocos who

turned it over to Seth Perelman who called the school on behalf of 15 veterans. Twelve of those

have received their remission that they would otherwise not have gotten. Mr. Margowski

publicly thanked Seth for his intervention.

As outgoing chairman, Mr. Margowski passed on the tradition of the Jim Gausmann

award to Vice Chair, Holly Hoppe. He thanked Bob Wilson for his service on the Council and

Mr. Margowski was honored to serve and deeply honored to have served as chairman. Mr.Wilson was thankful for the opportunity to experience serving on the Council and he learned a

lot about the legislative process during his term.

Ms. Hoppe said she was invited to a bill signing by the Governor but was unable to

attend. She took the time to write to her Representative and Senator to thank them for

supporting the funeral protection bill. Protestors cannot be at funerals an hour before or after a

funeral, procession or memorial. She thanked the support from the Department and CVSOs for

this piece of legislation.

8. Next Meeting Schedule

Thursday, April 27th at the CVSO Association Spring Conference in Waukesha.

9. Adjournment

It was moved by Ms. Hoppe, seconded by Mr. Wilson and carried on a voice vote to

adjourn the Council meeting; the time was 1:45 p.m.

John Margowski

Chairman


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M I N U T E S

LEGISLATIVE AND PROGRAM REVIEW COMMITTEE

WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

Meeting of February 21, 2006

Committee Present Others Present

Ken Wendt, Board Chairman Charles Allen

Russ Alsteen Connie Allord

Kevin Kavanaugh Ellen Blissenbach, Gold Star WivesVictor Vela Cleon Pat Brown, USSVWWII

Vern Lovley Ken Brown, Ozaukee CVSO

Bud Mautz Rick Cherone

Duane Miskulin Donna Chrzas, Columbia CVSO

Tim Thiers Mike Demske

Paul Weprinsky Jim Endres

Rick Gates, Polk CVSO

Committee Absent Dave Gough

Don Heiliger Mark Grams, Dodge CVSO

Pete Moran Walter Hahn, VFW Post 721

Lewis Harned Mike Haley, Chippewa CVSO

Bill Hustad Holly Hoppe, Oconto CVSOAnnette Howards, Marine Corps League

WDVA Present Michael Jackson, Dane CVSO

John A. Scocos, Secretary Christine Jordan, Walworth CVSO

William Kloster, Deputy Secretary Fred Kaiser, Waushara CVSO

Anthony Hardie, Executive Assistant Ken Koon

John Rosinski, Chief Legal Counsel Chris Kornkven

Ken Black, Division of Veterans Benefits Don Lander, Clark CVSO

Bill Crowley, Commandant, WVH-King Steve Lawrence, VFW

Glen Brower, Commandant, WVH-Union Grove Jon LiDonne, Waupaca CVSO

Ken Abrahamsen, Budget Director Mary Meyer

Colleen Holtan, Budget Office Arnold Miller

Julie Van Metre, Executive Staff Assistant Robert Morzenti, Iron CVSOTed Mynyk, Iowa CVSO

Walter Peterson, Am. Ex-POWs

Jerry Rabetski, PLAV

Vera Roddy, UWV

Dar Schuff, LAMOPH President

Lee Schuff, MOPH Commander

Larry Smerling, Winnebago CVSO

John Solis, Rock CVSO

Clif Sorenson, Eau Claire CVSO

Walter & Ann Stenavich, Board Member

Jack Stone, PVA

Chuck TaylorTony Tyczynski, Sauk CVSO

Ken Wendt, Board Chairman

Jim Young, Vernon CVSO

1. Call to Order and Roll Call.


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The meeting of the Legislative and Program Review Committee was called to order at

12:30 p.m. to hear a WDVA briefing (see Exhibit 1). The Committee stood in recess after the

WDVA briefing. A quorum was present at the WDVA briefing and upon reconvening at 1:50

p.m.

2. Certification of Notice of Meeting.

It was certified that proper notice of the meeting occurred.

3. Approval of Minutes.It was moved by Mr. Alsteen, seconded by Mr. Thiers and carried on a voice vote to

approve the minutes of the December 8, 2005 meetings.

4. Proposed Administrative Rule Language for County Transportation Grant

Mr. Rosinski explained that the Board previously approved a Statement of Scope

authorizing the Department staff to develop permanent rule language for review by the

Committee and the Board. The amended language will allow a county to use actual mileage data

in determining the amount of the Transportation Grant. It will have no fiscal effect on the

Departments budget. The rule is authorized under the authority of s.45.83(2), Stats. The

Department recognized that there might be counties that dont have an existing Transportation

Program and might want to start one. There may be counties that want to significantly expandan existing program. Section 7 was created to allow those counties to get into the system by

using estimates for the prospective grant year.

Mr. Lovley asked if this means that CVSOs would get a reduced grant for the first year if

this gets passed. It seems that some of the mileage is going to be an overlap from the grants that

were recently given out. Mr. Kloster said there would be an overlap but no reduction.

It was moved by Mr. Lovley, seconded by Mr. Mautz and carried unanimously on a voice

vote that the Committee approve the proposed order and request that the Board authorize the

Department to continue the permanent rule promulgation process.

5. Secretarys Matters.

Secretary Scocos looks forward to seeing everyone at the Salute to the Legislature this

evening. Assembly Bill 1034 had a public hearing as was reported by Anthony Hardie. The

Secretary is still optimistic that were on the right track for the Qualified Veterans Mortgage

Bonding. Process Action Teams are meeting on budget issues for the Fall. Phase Two of the

Veterans Trust Fund Solvency Plan will look at administrative costs and the mortgage loan

repayment fund being funded out of general purpose revenue. This, along with other issues will

be discussed this summer at the Stakeholders Conference.

6. Public Input.

None.

7. Committee Members Matters (Not Subject to Adoption).

Mr. Thiers said he paid off his loan through the Department and he was wondering if

there was a way to make that tax deductible off of Wisconsin state tax. If he wrote out a check

to the Trust Fund that would be tax deductible. Veterans could deduct that interest and it would

be more of an incentive to take out a home loan or personal loan through the Department. Mr.


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Scocos said he is willing to look at any and all ideas during the summers budgetary work. He is

on record saying that every veteran in the state should get a property tax credit.

8. Next Meeting Date.

The next meeting will be April 20, 2006 in Sturgeon Bay.

9. Adjournment.

It was moved by Mr. Lovley, seconded by Mr. Mautz and carried on a voice vote to

adjourn the meeting; the time was 2:03 p.m.

Ken Wendt

Board Chairman


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M I N U T E SLONG TERM CARE COMMITTEE

WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRSMeeting of February 21, 2006


Walter Stenavich, Chairman Connie AllordDave Gough Russ Alsteen, Navy Club

Ken Koon Ellen Blissenbach, Gold Star WivesChris Kornkven Cleon Pat Brown, USSVWWIIJon LiDonne Rick CheroneArnold Miller Donna Chrzas, Columbia CVSOCharles Allen Mike DemskeVera Roddy Jim EndresJerry Rabetski Rick Gates, Polk CVSOChuck Taylor Jim Gausmann, LaCrosse

Mark Grams, Dodge CVSOCommittee Absent Walter Hahn, VFW Post 721Mack Hughes Mike Haley, Chippewa CVSO

Jerry Polus, excused Annette Howards, Marine Corps LeagueMichael Jackson, Dane CVSO

WDVA Present Christine Jordan, Walworth CVSOJohn A. Scocos, Secretary Fred Kaiser, Waushara CVSOWilliam Kloster, Deputy Secretary Kevin KavanaughAnthony Hardie, Executive Assistant Don Lander, Clark CVSOJohn Rosinski, Chief Legal Counsel Steve Lawrence, VFWKen Black, Division of Veterans Benefits Vern Lovley, Jefferson CVSOKen Abrahamsen, Budget Director Bud Mautz, American LegionBill Crowley, Commandant, WVH-King Kerry Metoxen, Oneida TVSOGlen Brower, Commandant, WVH-Union Grove Mary Meyer

Colleen Holtan, Budget Office Duane MiskulinJulie Van Metre, Executive Staff Assistant Ted Mynyk, Iowa CVSO

Dar Schuff, LAMOPH PresidentLee Schuff, MOPH CommanderJohn Solis, Rock CVSOAnn StenavichTim Thiers, AMVETSTony Tyczynski, Sauk CVSOVictor VelaKen Wendt, Board ChairmanPaul Weprinsky, JWVJim Young, Vernon CVSO

1. Call to Order and Roll Call.The meeting of the Long Term Care Committee was called to order at 12:30 p.m. to hear

a WDVA briefing (see Exhibit 1). The Committee stood in recess after the briefing. A quorumwas present at the briefing and upon reconvening at 2:05 p.m.


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2. Certification of Notice of Meeting.It was certified that proper notice of the meeting occurred.

3. Approval of Minutes.It was moved by Mr. Rabetski, seconded by Mr. Miller and carried on a voice vote to

approve the minutes of the December 8, 2005 meeting.


Secretary Scocos welcomed Colonel Koon back from service. He looks forward toseeing him and others at the Salute to the Legislature later today.

Assembly Bill 1034 permits the transfer of funds from the King Home to the VeteransTrust Fund. This is a one-time transfer of up to $16 million in program revenue from theWisconsin Veterans Home at King to the Veterans Trust Fund. The revenue can be used asseed money for the revenue producing Personal Loan Program loans to veterans, contributingto the continued self-sufficiency of the Trust Fund. The Secretary reiterated that no such transferwould happen until the financial solvency of the King Home and Union Grove was determined.

The Department is on track for the May 20th dedication of the new 120-bed skilled

nursing facility at Union Grove. Both Commandants are doing a great job in keeping the bedsfilled. Research is being undertaken to have some type of satellite Home in partnership with theState of Minnesota in the Superior area.

On March 3rd there will be a check presentation by the federal VA at King for over$450,000 for the steam condensate line project. Congressman Green is going to be presentingthe check to the Home.

The National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs is working hard to getthe burial plot allowance up to $800 or get an operational grant from the federal government.The federal government would like to see us delete the residency requirement for burial in our

cemeteries. If we did that, we could not meet the demand. We are also looking at developing acemetery in the Fox Valley area based on the need in that area.

Q: Is there going to be a clinic at Spooner or Rice Lake?A: It is in the CARES Commission for VISN 23. We believe the federal funding will

come through by this summer for a clinic somewhere in that area.

Q: Drilling on Well #2 is not to begin until 2007, is that pending VA grant approval?A: We will be receiving a VA grant on that. It is a matter of scheduling. It is a very

major project and it has to go out for bids.

Q: In terms of quality assurance of Wells #1 and #2, will the DNR or someone in-housebe responsible for periodic testing of the water quality?

A: Our major concern is for the health and safety of our members. We have continuous24-hour a day monitoring of our water treatment plant with equipment that has to be checked andrecalibrated periodically. Once we discontinue reliance on Rainbow Lake for our water supply,we will not have to have 24 hour check of the system. We will have 24-hour automated


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monitoring and we are confident with the quality of the water tests on Well #2 that we wonthave a problem at all.

Q: The substantial completion date for the skilled nursing facility at Union Grove seemsto be continually moving back. Are the contractors paying a late penalty?

A: The actual construction project comes under DSF which is under the WisconsinDepartment of Administration. They are not paying a late penalty. The Secretary said cost over-rides should not be put on WDVA and he is communicating that to DOA.

Q: What is the present status of the Burns Clemens building at King?A: Burns Clemens Hall was one of the four residential halls in use at King prior to the

construction of Ainsworth Hall. The rehabilitation of Burns Clemens as some kind of assistedliving facility was deemed not economically feasible. Since the residents vacated the building tomove into Ainsworth Hall it has had other uses. There are office areas occupied by DSF,computer training labs are located there along with a printing area and the ground level wasrecently used as a temporary kitchen while the new kitchen was being reconstructed. In additionto that, many of the areas in the building are being used for short-term warehousing of productsand supplies. At some point demolition of the building could be a consideration.

Q: The Armitage, a private homeless veterans assistance corporation, was talking aboutgetting a letter of support to renovate a part of Burns Clemens. Do you know anything about thisand how does that fit in with the goals of the Department?

A: The Armitage Foundation was started by Peter Olk and the first Armitage House wasdedicated in DePere about ten years. Mr. Olk is a local businessman from the Green Bay areaand very committed to assisting veterans in need. He has been on the King campus several timesin the last few months and there have been discussions along those lines.

Secretary Scocos added that the Department is looking at an outside vendor coming inwith a state or federal grant and remodel buildings at King at no cost to the Department.

5. Public Input.Mr. Kornkven thanked everyone who came last month for the Gulf War Illness

Recognition Day.

6. Committee Members Matters (Not Subject to Adoption).

7. Next Meeting Schedule.April 20, 2006 in Sturgeon Bay.

8. Adjournment.It was moved by Mr. Taylor, seconded by Mr. Rabetski and carried on a voice vote to


Walter StenavichChairman


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M I N U T E SFINANCIAL COMMITTEE

WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRSMeeting of February 21, 2006


Ken Wendt, Board Chairman Ellen Blissenbach, Gold Star WivesConnie Allord Cleon Pat Brown, USSVWWII

Mike Demske Roger Fetterly, Military Officers Assoc.Jim Endres Rick Gates, Polk CVSOMary Meyer Dave GoughJim Gausmann Mark Grams, Dodge CVSOBob Morzenti Holly Hoppe, Oconto CVSOJohn Solis Annette Howards, Marine Corps League

Christine Jordan, Walworth CVSOCommittee Absent Fred Kaiser, Waushara CVSOMarvin Freedman, excused Ken KoonKathy Marschman Chris KornkvenJohn OBrien Don Lander, Clark CVSO

Steve Lawrence, VFWWDVA Present Jon LiDonne, Waupaca CVSOJohn A. Scocos, Secretary Bud Mautz, American LegionWilliam Kloster, Deputy Secretary Arnold MillerAnthony Hardie, Executive Assistant Duane MiskulinJohn Rosinski, Chief Legal Counsel Ted Mynyk, Iowa CVSOBill Crowley, Commandant, WVH-King Jerry Rabetski, PLAVGlen Brower, Commandant, WVH-Union Grove Dar Schuff, LAMOPH PresidentKen Abrahamsen, Budget Director Lee Schuff, MOPH CommanderColleen Holtan, Budget Office Walter & Ann Stenavich, Board MemberJulie Van Metre, Executive Staff Assistant Jack Stone, PVA

Chuck TaylorTony Tyczynski, Sauk CVSO

1. Call to Order and Roll Call.The meeting of the Financial Committee was called to order at 12:30 p.m. to hear a

WDVA briefing (see Exhibit 1). The Committee stood in recess after the WDVA briefing. Aquorum was present at the briefing and upon reconvening at 2:28 p.m.

2. Certification of Notice of Meeting.Notice of meeting was certified.

3. Approval of Minutes.It was moved by Mr. Endres, seconded by Ms. Meyers and carried on a voice vote to

approve the minutes of the December 8, 2005 meetings.



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The Secretary is anticipating the passage of AB 1034 to include increasing the amount ofUW System and Technical College tuition remission from 50% to 100%. In addition tobenefiting qualified veterans, the expansion from 50% to 100% tuition remission will save theVeterans Trust Fund approximately $33 million through the year 2019. Thus, less money will bedrawn from the Trust Fund as reimbursements to veterans via WDVAs current VetEd grantprogram.

5. Public Input.

None.

6. Committee Members Matters (Not Subject to Adoption).None.

7. Next Meeting Date.April 20, 2006 in Sturgeon Bay.

8. Adjournment.It was moved by Mr. Endres, seconded by Ms. Meyer and carried on a voice vote to


Ken WendtBoard Chairman


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M I N U T E S

COUNCIL ON VETERANS PROGRAMSWISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

Meeting of February 22, 2006

Members Present Others Present

Russ Alsteen, NCUSA Connie Allord

Paul Bialk, MCL Joe Anderson, DAV CommanderPat Brown, USSVWWII Cliff BordenRick Cherone, MOPH Donna Chrzas, Columbia CVSORick Gates, CVSOA Mike DemskeSteve House, VVA Jim EndresBill Hustad, WVV Mike Gunner Furgal, VFW AdjutantKen Kuehnl, DAV Jim Gausmann, LaCrosse CVSOSteve Lawrence, VFW Mark Grams, Dodge CVSOBud Mautz, Am. Legion Mike Haley, Chippewa CVSOJerry Rabetski, PLAV Don Heiliger, Board MemberRon Rutkowski, VVAW Holly Hoppe, Oconto CVSO

Vera Roddy, UWV Mack Hughes, Board MemberClif Sorenson, WACVO Michael Jackson, Dane CVSOJack Stone, PVA Jim King, DAVTim Thiers, AMVETS Don Lander, Clark CVSOPaul Weprinsky, JWV Mary Lex, Langlade Veterans Service

OfficeJon LiDonne, Waupaca CVSO

Members Excused John Margowski, Waukesha CVSOPaul Fine, ANU Kathy Marschman, Board MemberJesse Haro, CWV Rob McDivitt, VISN 23Walter Peterson, Am. ExPOW Arnold Miller

William Sims, NABV (excused) Duane MiskulinWWI vacancy Robert Morzenti, Iron CVSOFCDV vacancy Ted Mynyk, Iowa CVSOARC vacancy Walter & Ann Stenavich, Board Member

Chuck TaylorWDVA Present Victor VelaJohn A. Scocos, Secretary Ken Wendt, Board ChairmanWilliam Kloster, Deputy Secretary Owen Williams, USSVWWII CommanderAnthony Hardie, Executive Assistant Bob Wilson, Langlade CVSOJohn Rosinski, Chief Legal Counsel Jim Young, Vernon CVSOKen Black, Division of Veterans BenefitsSeth Perelman, Division of AdministrationBill Crowley, Commandant, WVH-KingGlen Brower, Commandant, Union GroveKen Abrahamsen, Budget DirectorColleen Holtan, Budget OfficeLarry Kleinsteiber, Policy AdvisorAndy Schuster, Communications DirectorCharlie Piper, Veterans Assistance ProgramJulie Van Metre, Executive Staff Assistant


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1. Call to Order and Roll Call of Members.

The meeting of the Council on Veterans Programs was called to order by ChairmanAlsteen at 8:00 a.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

2. Certification of Notice of Meeting.It was certified that proper notice of the meeting occurred.

3. Introduction of Guests and Announcements.The Chairman acknowledged the presence of several Board members; Owen Williams,

US Submarine Veterans Commander; Joe Anderson, DAV State Commander; and Jim King.

4. Approval of Minutes.It was moved by Mr. Sorenson, seconded by Mr. Mautz and carried unanimously on a

voice vote to accept the minutes of the December 8-9 meetings.

5. Council Communications.The Council received a Christmas card from the Home at Union Grove. The Chairman

received a letter from Senator Russ Feingolds office responding to the Councils

correspondence to him in support of funding for a new spinal cord injury center at the ZablockiVA Medical Center. Dr. Lee thanked this Council for sending the letter to the WisconsinCongressional Delegation.

6. Museum Foundation Report.Mr. Hustad reported that the Foundation met on February 21st. It set up a finance

committee to look at how to invest reserve funds. The Foundation is looking at updating its website. A letter went out to all the prospective sponsors for the Golf Tournament to be held July17, 2006.

7. Discussion of Council Member Attendance at Briefing and Council Meeting if Claiming

Overnight ExpenseMr. Thiers initiated discussion about participation at the briefing and Council meetings.

It was moved by Mr. Thiers to recommend to the Board that overnight lodging expenses not bepaid to members who do not attend the briefing meetings the day before the Council meeting.The motion was seconded by Mr. Mautz. Mr. Rosinski was asked to research DOA guidelinesregarding reimbursement of expenses incurred while attending Council meetings. Mr. Thiersand Mr. Mautz withdrew the motion pending further study by the Department.

8. Secretarys Matters.Mr. Scocos thanked everyone for their support of the Salute to the Legislature. It was a

good event. He noted that the veterans post budget legislation, Senate Bill 613 was having ahearing in the Senate this morning. The Assembly version of the bill, AB 1034 had a hearingyesterday. The legislation permits the transfer of funds from the King Home to the VeteransTrust Fund, increases the amount of UW System and Technical College tuition remission from50% to 100% and simplifies and increases eligibility equity for the Wisconsin G.I. bill.

The dedication of the 120-bed skilled nursing facility is scheduled for May 20th, ArmedForces Day. The next meeting of the Board will be in April in Sturgeon Bay.


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Two bronze plaques, their production funded by veterans, are completed and ready forplacement. One is dedicated to World War II veterans and the other is dedicated to all veterans.A compromise is being worked on with the State Capitol and Executive Residence Board to havethese plaques installed at the Capitol sometime this year.

The QVMB is in conference committee. We believe it will go through Congress. TheWisconsin delegation is in support of the bill.

Mr. Thiers said that in the past the UW System would not accept Tech school credits, oronly accept a small portion of the credits earned. Mr. Scocos said there has been difficulty andwe need to look at that as an issue for a process action team. Ms. Roddy said the level of creditsis critical; you cant take level 101 at the technical college, you have to take level 201 and thenall credits will transfer. Mr. Gates said educational institutions are competitive for the dollar andin the past there was an incentive for the educators not to accept transferring credits because theywant to enroll the student in their classes. Now, if we get the 100% tuition, it takes away theincentive.

9. Old Business.The Chairman asked for an update on the study of eligibility criteria and discharges. Mr.

Perelman is the chairman of a process action team to consider eligibility with respect to thosepeople discharged under honorable conditions in the general discharge category. Mr. Perelmansaid the group is looking at all of the eligibility criteria with respect to discharges, includingunder other than honorable conditions and bad conduct discharges. Meetings are still in progressand he will give a final report with recommendations upon completion. Mr. Rosinski added thatany change would be statutory. Basically, the state has the right to define whos eligible for itsbenefit.

10. New Business.Chairman Alsteen said the Councils special committee to study the reorganization of the

Council met yesterday morning. The Special Committee is recommending that the Council take

action on a letter to be sent out indicating that any organization that misses three consecutivemeetings will be informed that action will be taken to eliminate them from the Council. It wasso moved by Mr. Thiers and seconded by Mr. Cherone to recommend that action to the Board.Mr. Gates said the issue was to be brought up for discussion only, the Council could not vote totake action since it was not previously noted on this agenda. Mr. Gates said the specialcommittee looked at the organizations that typically do not have representation and how to takethem off the roll. The special committee discussed adding organizations to the Council and theprocedure for making that happen. Mr. Thiers and Mr. Cherone withdrew their motion andsecond. The Chairman asked that the special committee meet again in April and that theCouncils agenda reflect that action will be taken on the special committees recommendations.

Chairman Alsteen asked for ideas and recommendations on how to best take notes andcompile all the information gained at these Council and Committee meetings in order to bringthat knowledge back to their respective organizations. It was suggested that organizations bringto the Council any reports or newsletters they send to their organizations after attending theseCommittee, Council and Board meetings. Mr. Gates said they have agendas, minutes, and theycan take notesthe onus should be of each of them to set up their notes. Mr. Kuehnl said theDAV has made links on their web site to the WDVA web site.


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The Chairman offered to be the spokesperson for the Council and attend anyorganizations executive committee meeting and explain the role of the Council on VeteransPrograms.

Mr. Grams said Secretary Scocos invited and encouraged everyone to participate in thelegislative hearing today on Senate Bill 613. He challenged each organization to have at leastone person testify or register for every bill that would improve benefits for veterans.

11. Activities within the Veterans Community.Commander Williams spoke about a Memorial Service for US Submarine Veterans who

lost their lives. The USS Lagarto was designated as Wisconsins lost submarine. Recently, adiver in Thailand located the USS Lagarto, which was sunk 3 May 1945. Of the eighty-six menwho went down, thirty-six are represented by kinfolks who will be at the memorial service andreception on May 5-6, 2006.

Mr. Sorenson said that Mission Welcome Home continues to be working on a local basis;he gave a briefing to the 128th in Eau Claire. He made a personal trip to Georgia to welcome hisson home from Iraq.

Mr. Kuehnl said that DAV day at the ball park is May 20th. The game (Minnesota Twinsvs. the Milwaukee Brewers) starts at 6:05 p.m. Tickets through the DAV are $15. The DAVState Convention will be at the Radisson in Green Bay on June 8-10. He thanked AndySchusters excellent help with the Salute as well as those organizations who helped defray someof the costs. Mr. Kuehnl is going to become the new DAV Department Adjutant. The newlegislative director will become his replacement on the Council on Veterans Programs.

The Military Order of the Purple Heart was in Washington, DC last week to meet withSenators and Representatives. Mr. Cherone said the Stolen Valor Act of 2005 is likely to pass.The asbestos trust fund failed by one vote (Mr. Feingold voted against it) and there is some talkof a revote. He has learned that the military cannot support concurrent receipt.

VVAW will have its 18th annual Milwaukee Beer Festival at Serb Hall in Milwaukee onMarch 12th from noon to 4:30 p.m.

The American Legion spring meetings will be held at the state headquarters in Portage onMay 5th and 6th.

12. Next Meeting Date.April 20-21 in Sturgeon Bay.

13. Adjournment.It was moved by Mr. Kuehnl, seconded by Mr. Hustad and carried on a voice vote to

adjourn; the time was 9:20 a.m.

Russ AlsteenChairman


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B O A R D M I N U T E SWISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

Meeting of February 22, 2006Madison, Wisconsin

Board Members Present Council on Veterans Programs Present

Ken Wendt Russ Alsteen, Navy Club USAPete Moran (via teleconference) Cleon Pat Brown, USSVWWIIKathy Marschman Rick Cherone, MOPHDon Heiliger Rick Gates, CVSOAMack Hughes Steve House, VVAWalter Stenavich Bill Hustad, WVV

Steve Lawrence, VFWBoard Members Absent Bud Mautz, American LegionMarv Freedman (excused) Walter Peterson, Ex POWs

Jerry Rabetski, PLAVWDVA Present Vera Roddy, UWVJohn A. Scocos, Secretary Clif Sorenson, WACVO

Bill Kloster, Deputy Secretary Tim Thiers, AMVETSAnthony Hardie, Executive AssistantJohn Rosinski, Chief Legal Counsel Others PresentGlen Brower, Commandant-Union Grove Connie AllordBill Crowley, Commandant-King Cliff BordenMel Brandl, Regional Coordinator Donna Chrzas, Columbia CVSOSusan Mattix, Budget Office Mike DemskeLarry Kleinsteiber, Policy Advisor Jim EndresColleen Holtan, Financial Officer Mark Grams, Dodge CVSOKen Black, Division of Veterans Benefits Mike Haley, Chippewa CVSOKen Abrahamsen, Budget Director Holly Hoppe, Oconto CVSOCharlie Piper, Veterans Assistance Program Michael Jackson, Dane CVSO

Richard Zeitlin, Museum Director Kevin KavanaughAndy Schuster, Communications Director Don Lander, Clark CVSOJeff Johnson, Veterans Transition Assistance Mary Lex, Office of Langlade CVSOKathy Scholl, Office of Public Affairs Jon LiDonne, Waupaca CVSOTom Rhatican, Division of Veterans Homes John Margowski, Waukesha CVSOKen Grant, Bureau of Program Services Bruce MatthewsJulie Van Metre, Executive Staff Assistant Robert McDivitt, VISN 23

Arnold MillerDuane MiskulinRobert Morzenti, Iron CVSOTed Mynyk, Iron CVSOLarry Smerling, Winnebago CVSO

Ann StenavichChuck TaylorVictor VelaOwen Williams, USSVWWII CommanderBob Wilson, Langlade CVSOJim Young, Vernon CVSO

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1. Roll Call and IntroductionsThe meeting of the Board of Veterans Affairs was called to order at 9:30 a.m. A

quorum was present after roll call of members. Secretary Scocos took this time to presentcertificates of appreciation and awards to WDVA employees: Susan Mattix, LarryKleinsteiber, John Rosinski, Jeff Johnson, Ken Black, and Andrew Schuster.

2.

Certification of Notice of MeetingIt was certified that proper notification of the meeting occurred.

3. Approval of MinutesIt was moved by Mr. Stenavich, seconded by Mr. Moran and carried unanimously on

a voice vote to approve the minutes of the December 8-9 meetings.

4. Public Hearing on Proposed Administrative Rule for Veterans Assistance ProgramThe Chairman opened the public hearing. Mr. Rosinski explained that the hearing is

on a proposed order adopting administrative rules for the Veterans Assistance Program(VAP). The language was approved by the Board at its last meeting and covers two issues

concerning the Veterans Assistance Program. The first issue is permitting the use of veteransassistance funds for vocational assistance to residence of the VAP. The fiscal estimate isunknown but the expectation is that it would be a very limited amount of money. The otherissue deals with increasing the monthly program fee from 25% of monthly gross income or$250.00 whichever is less to 30% of monthly gross income or 350.00 whichever is less. Thatcharge is permissible under the federal regulations dealing with the Veterans AssistanceProgram Per Diem Program. The fiscal estimate for this increase is approximately $126,000in additional revenue annually.

The Chairman called for public testimony. Hearing none, the public hearing wasclosed. It was moved by Mr. Heiliger, seconded by Ms. Marschman and carried on a voice

vote to authorize the Department to complete the promulgation process for the creation ofVA 13.04(4) and amendment of VA 13.05(2) relating to the Veterans Assistance Program.

5. Proposed Administrative Rule Language for County Transportation GrantMr. Rosinski said the Legislative and Program Review Committee unanimously

approved the County Transportation Grant Administrative Rule language and recommendedthat the Board authorize the Department to proceed with the permanent rule promulgationprocess. Mr. Rosinski explained that the Board directed the Department to develop anamendment to the County Transportation Grant Program that would allow the use of actualmileage data in determining the amount of the grant rather than requiring counties to useestimated data.

It was moved by Mr. Moran, seconded by Mr. Heiliger and carried unanimously on avoice vote to approve the proposed order and authorize the Department to continue thepermanent rule promulgation process for the County Transportation Grant.

Addendum to Agenda posted 2/21/06

Board will take action on Departments proposal for naming of Department buildings.Secretary Scocos said that the Department would like to honor several members of theveterans community by naming certain WDVA facilities in their memory. All of these

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individuals have been involved in veterans activities and helped further the goal of providingthe best possible benefits and services to the veterans of our state.

The Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery Administration Building isproposed to be the Italo Bensoni Administration Building.

The new Skilled Nursing Facility in Union Grove is proposed to be Boland Hall. The proposed Veterans Assistance Program site at the Northern Wisconsin Center,

currently Oak Grove Building 128 is proposed to be Klein Hall. The Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery Administration Building is

proposed to be the Edo Maccari Administration Building.

The new Activity and Administration Building, currently Cottage 17, at the SouthernWisconsin Center is proposed to be Maurer Hall.

The Central Services Building at King is proposed to be the John Moses CentralServices Building.

It was moved by Mr. Stenavich, seconded by Mr. Heiliger and carried unanimouslyon a voice vote to authorize the Department to name the buildings as listed above.

6. Board Members MattersElection of Board Officersit was moved by Mr. Moran, seconded by Mr. Stenavich

and carried on a roll call vote of four to two to defer the election of officers to the Aprilmeeting of the Board.

Assignment of Board Chairs and Vice Chairs to the Three Committees of theBoarddeferred to the April meeting of the Board. The same Board members will chairtheir respective committee meetings at the April meeting.

Announcement of Citizen Members of the Boards Committees. The followingmembership was recommended by Chairman Wendt:

Legislative and Program Review Committee

Steve Lawrence to replace Victor VelaVera Roddy to replace Kevin KavanaughJosh Sniegowski to replace Russ AlsteenJim Young to replace Vern Lovleyand the reappointment of Bill Hustad, Bud Mautz, Paul Weprinsky, Lewis Harned, TimThiers and Duane Miskulin

Long Term Care Committee

Alan Walker to replace Chuck Taylor

Bob Morzenti to replace Vera RoddyMary Meyer to replace Dr. Charles AllenKevin Kavanaugh to replace Jon LiDonneand the reappointment of Arnold Miller, Jerry Rabetski, Chris Kornkven, Ken Koon, JerryPolus and David Gough.

Financial Committee

Joe Campbell to replace Mary MeyerBill Bottoms to replace John Solis

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Allen Kochenderfer to replace Bob Morzentiand the reappointment of Connie Allord, Jim Endres, Jim Gausmann, Mike Demske and JohnOBrien

It was moved by Mr. Stenavich, seconded by Mr. Moran and carried unanimously on avoice vote to approve the appointments to the Boards committees as stated above.

Approval of CVSO Advisory Council Appointments.CVSO Association President Rick Gates, recommended through Secretary Scocos the

following CVSOs to the CVSO Advisory Council to fill four-year terms ending April 2010and asked for Board confirmation of Nick Benzinger, Shawano County (NE Association) andMark Grams, Dodge County (SE Association).

It was moved by Mr. Stenavich, seconded by Mr. Hughes and carried unanimously ona voice vote to accept the recommendation and appoint Nick Benzinger and Mark Grams tothe CVSO Advisory Council.

7. Board Action from Committee and Council MeetingsCVSO Advisory Council meeting of February 21, 2006. Ms. Hoppe said the new

Council members will take their seats at the April 27th meeting. The election for CouncilChairman will take place at that time as well. Mr. Stenavich noted that John Weibel isretiring as Racine County Veterans Service Officer and wanted to recognize his outstandingservice.

Legislative and Program Review Committee meeting of February 21, 2006. Therewere no other motions to bring before the Board other than the approval of theTransportation Grant Administrative Rule.

Long Term Care Committee meeting of February 21, 2006. There were no motionsto bring before the Board.

Financial Committee meeting of February 21, 2006: The Committee made nomotions to bring before the Board.

Council on Veterans Programs meeting of February 22, 2006: Mr. Alsteen said theCouncil took no action for Board consideration. He said the Department and the DAV, VFWand American Legion did an excellent job at the Salute to the Legislature. It was wellattended by the veterans community. The Councils Special Committee to study the make upof the Council will meet again in April.

It was moved by Mr. Moran, seconded by Mr. Hughes and carried unanimously on avoice vote to accept the reports of the Committees and Councils.

8. VISN 12 and VISN 23 ReportsRobert McDivitt, Deputy Network Director of VISN 23 spoke on behalf of Dr. Petzel

and VISN 12 Director Jim Roseborough. Budgets for fiscal year 2006 in both Networks arein relatively good shape. As the halfway point in the fiscal year approaches, they are lookingat challenges related to preservation of capital funds for their intended purpose. This yearthere will be a separate appropriation for information technology. Congress set up a newappropriation for the VA this year and all IT dollars are centralized at the Washington level.The President has submitted the fiscal year 2007 budget proposal. The proposal for theVeterans Health Administration anticipates increases between 8.2% and 9.6% in the three

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main VHA accountsMedical Services, Medical Administration and Medical Facilities.The plan also proposes an annual enrollment fee for Priority Group 8 veterans of $250 and anincrease in the pharmacy co-pay from its current level of $7 to $15.

Outreach to combat veterans is a priority for both Networks. In VISN 12 nearly3,000 combat veterans have been enrolled and in VISN 23, nearly 7,500 combat veterans

have been enrolled and treated at our facility. The Polytrauma Rehab Center in Minneapolisspecializing in the needs of severely wounded Iraqi and Afghanistan veterans is moving intoa consolidated space next month. There will be a ribbon cutting on March 2nd. The Center isgetting local and national recognition for its outstanding service to seriously ill veterans.

Both Networks continue to work hard on waiting lists. For VISN 12 there are 1,727veterans waiting for their first primary care appointment. Veterans waiting for anappointment at a Wisconsin facility comprise 76% of the VISN 12 wait list. In VISN 23 thenumbers are 2,698 veterans waiting for an appointment. Forty-eight percent of these patientsare waiting for a primary care appointment at a specific CBOC. All veterans who cannot beseen within 30 days at a CBOC are offered an appointment at a parent VA medical center.

In VISN 23 the Spinal Cord Injury Unit project went through a final design reviewand it is expected to be out for bid and awarded this summer and will open in about twoyears. The major project to remodel the Spinal Cord Unit in the Milwaukee VA was alsoincluded in the Presidents Fiscal Year 2007 budget proposal. The business plan for theNorth Central Wisconsin Community Based Outpatient Clinic proposed for multiple sites inBarron and Sawyer Counties was again submitted. The first round of reviews is completedand they are guardedly optimistic that it will be approved.

9. Proposed Lease of WDVA Building Pursuant to 45.03(5)(1) to Discuss Improvements inan Existing Building

Secretary Scocos explained that the Department is seeking authority from the Boardto expand the scope of the Veterans Assistance Program in the establishment of a singleroom occupancy component at the King and Union Grove sites to permit the VAP to retainresidents in need of housing beyond the 24 months allowed under the Homeless ProviderGrant. The central issue is assignment to an operational vendor of the control, repair, limitedrenovation and maintenance of state property on the second floor of Ove Hall at theWisconsin Veterans Home at King, and the two upper end bays at Cottage 1, SouthernWisconsin Center, at Union Grove pursuant to the establishment and operation of an SROprogram. Justification for authority to proceed in this manner is to permit the timely and costeffective addition of needed single room occupancy units to the VAP as authorized underChapter VA 13 of the Wisconsin Administrative Code. In order to pursue a lease with a

nonprofit organization, the Board must authorize Department action.

It was moved by Mr. Moran, seconded by Ms. Marschman and carried unanimouslyon a voice vote to authorize the Department to pursue a lease with a non profit organizationunder sec.45.03(5).

10. Secretarys MattersSecretary Scocos gave an update on the Veterans Trust Fund solvency. The Veterans

Trust Fund cash balance is at $30.1 million, which is $80,000 more than the year-end cash

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balance for fiscal year 2005. Based on the first semester grant applications, the demand forVetEd grants is estimated to be about $600,000 less than originally projected in fiscal year2006. The main reason for the lower demand for VetEd grants is that the National Guard andReservists are using their own educational grant programs. The new Wisconsin G.I. Bill issaving the Veterans Trust Fund about $1.2 million per fiscal year. If the tuition remissionrate is increased to 100%, as proposed in AB 1034, the annual savings will be in the range of

$2.4 million per fiscal year. The State of Wisconsin Investment Boards interest rate hasincreased to 4.2% as compared to 1% in May of 2004. The Veterans Trust Fund is earningjust over $1 million in additional interest income annually based on a $30 million cashbalance. Our projected central office Veterans Trust Fund administrative savings is about$200,000 in salary and fringe benefits, nearly $100,000 in supplies and services. As of thisdate, the Veterans Trust Fund should remain solvent until 2014 if these trends continue (the100% tuition and any transfer from the Veterans Home to the Trust Fund is not included inthat assumption).

Phase Two of the solvency plan is having all of our administrative costs from TrustFund and Mortgage Repayment Fund dollars be the responsibility of general purpose dollars.

WDVA is the only agency in the state that pays for its employee salaries out of its ownrevenue generating programs. The Department is currently working with various groups onprocess action teams, and a Stakeholders conference will be scheduled for this summer. Thisis all in preparation for the Fall submission to the Board of the Departments budget.

The Secretary thanked everyone for attending the Salute. He is looking forward tothe May 20th dedication of the 120-bed skilled nursing facility in Union Grove. At the AprilBoard meeting, the Secretary will ask the Board to set some dates for ceremonies to namevarious buildings.

The legislative session is coming to a close and the Secretary said there have been

some tremendous victories for our veterans.

11. Public Input.Mr. Miskulin informed the Board that the former Secretary of Veterans Affairs,

Anthony Principi came to AMVETS and asked about putting on a Symposium for youngveterans of all the services (somewhat like Secretary Scocos Supermarkets). Manydignitaries will serve on the steering committee, and Mr. Miskulin was chosen represent theAMVETS for the United States. The Symposium will be held in Chicago on October 18-21.It will cost AMVETS $1.8 million to host this event ($400,000 from AMVETS and $1.4million from grants). More information will be available in April.

12. Other Matters (Not Subject to Adoption).Waupaca CVSO Jon LiDonne presented an American Legion Waupaca County

Council check for the WDVA bus fund.

Mr. Perelman said the Department has been exploring private development sourcesfor some time now in order to realize the goal of a new building and a new museum for theDepartment in Madison. WDVA has been aided immeasurably by Campbell and Company

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in the person of Bruce Matthews who is here today to provide a report based upon his studyof our situation.

Mr. Matthews said the State of Wisconsin first proposed the idea of creating aWisconsin History Center on the square in the year 2000 that combined the WisconsinHistorical Society and the Wisconsin Veterans Museum. For a variety of reasons, that

project was not pursued. In 2004 the State Department of Administration contacted both theHistorical Society and the Department of Veterans Affairs about revisiting the idea of thisproject in conjunction with the Overture Foundation here in Madison. Because it wasassumed that a portion of the funding for this project would have to come from privatesources, the Foundations of both organizations decided to assess their current state ofreadiness to pursue a possible capital campaign in the near future to aid in raising money forthis project.

An internal assessment was conducted by Campbell & Company. The objective wasto assess all current programs for which private gifts are solicited here, to review thestructure and function of the Museum Foundation, to assess the role of the Foundation Board

as well as other groups involved in fundraising and determine whether or not the Departmentand the Foundation have sufficient staff in place to lead a major fundraising effort. In orderto prepare for a possible campaign to build a new Veterans Museum, Campbell & Companyrecommended that the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs begin immediately toestablish a comprehensive development program. Mr. Matthews said that hiring experienceddevelopment staff is the best single investment that the Department could make at this time.As the Department of Veterans Affairs begins to build a fundraising program it will also needto develop a culture of philanthropy. Campbell & Company is confident that itsrecommendations are achievable and they look forward to working with the Department toimplement the recommendations as it prepares for a major campaign.

13. Next Meeting Date and LocationApril 20-21, 2006 in Sturgeon Bay.

14. AdjournmentIt was moved by Mr. Moran, seconded by Mr. Stenavich and carried on a voice vote

to adjourn the meeting, the time was 10:50 a.m.

Kenneth WendtChairman

Documents

Board Minutes February 2006