Faribault County commissioners have begun their search to hire someone to head the Veterans Services Office (VSO) in Blue Earth.
That’s good news for some residents who feel that local veterans aren’t being helped because the VSO is short-staffed, with only one full-time person.
Members of the county’s Personnel Committee last week interviewed a potential replacement for David Hanson, who resigned in August.
In August, County Board chair John Roper told Tripleanews.com that the VSO was running smoothly and veterans were receiving the services and assistance they need.
But, there are some who disagree.
Tripleanews.com has received photos and an anonymous letter expressing concern that the VSO is closed too often during business hours.
“We have noticed several veterans on various days standing outside the office reading the notes on the door just like we encountered,” says the letter. “We realize people have vacations and personal days, but 20 encounters on periodic timing seems highly questionable.”
Some photos and letters reportedly have been sent to the commissioners, calling for some action.
Tripleanews.com was unable to reach Roper, who also serves on the Personnel Committee, for a comment.
When Hanson resigned it was amid an investigation of a complaint that was filed against him.
County Attorney Troy Timmerman has never said when the complaint was filed or if Hanson was ever placed on paid leave at any time.
The investigation was halted after Hanson resigned and reached a separation agreement with the county that paid him more than $36,000 for time accrued, wages and severance pay.