Wdva Draft Unapproved Minutes - December 9-10, 2010

Transcript

WISCONSIN BOARD OF VETERANS AFFAIRS WDVA Briefing of December 9, 2010 Union Grove, Wisconsin Board Members Dan Naylor Pete Moran Marv Freedman Rod Moen Legislative & Program Review Present Dave Boetcher Yvonne Duesterhoeft Bruce Markert Ken Rock Rick Scollon Long Term Care Committee Present Rod Moen Scott Berger David Benson Ed Healey John Hofer Joseph Maehl Al Richards Vera Roddy Clif Sorenson Finance Committee Members Present Pete Moran Marv Freedman Mike Gourlie Duane Miskulin Steve Lawrence Chuck Roloff James Romlein William Schalk Robert Stone Alan Walker CVSO Advisory Council Present Scott Berger, Marathon CVSO Yvonne Duesterhoeft, Jefferson CVSO Rick Gates, Polk CVSO Tony Tyczynski, Sauk CVSO Dale Oatman, Langlade CVSO Robert Stone, Winnebago CVSO Kathleen Gausmann, Monroe CVSO Council on Veterans Programs Members Present Russ Alsteen, NCUSA George Banda, GI Forum Ben Berlin, JWV Rick Cherone, MOPH Linda Dancker, UWV Roger Fetterly, MOAA Paul Fine, ANU Mark Foreman, VVAW Mike Furgal, VFW Mike Gourlie, WACVO Mark Grams, MCL Anthony Hardie, DAV Jesse Haro, CWV Bill Hustad, WVV Chuck Roloff, Am. Legion Lenny Shier, TREA Walter Stenavich, USSVWWII Jack Stone, PVA Tim Thiers, AMVETS Gary Traynor, BVA Ken Wendt, PLAV WDVA Staff Members Present Kenneth B. Black, Secretary Donna Williams, Deputy Secretary Max Dulberger, Executive Assistant Jimmy Stewart, Chief Legal Counsel Tony Cappozzo, Division Administrator Colleen Holtan, Budget Office Director Micabil Diaz, Legal Counsel Brian Marshall, Division Administrator Michael Telzrow, Veterans Museum Director James Bond, Division Administrator Chris Schuldes, Bureau of Veterans Benefits Sara Stinski, Communications Director Jackie Moore, Acting Commandant-King Pat Shaughnessy, Acting Commandant-Union Grove Jim McGarvey, BOIS-Union Grove Amy Franke, Bureau of Administrative Services Mark Mathwig, Bureau of Veterans Cemeteries Julie Van Metre, Executive Staff Assistant Colleen Roemer, King Russ Peck, WDVA Claims Mary Shepherd, Union Grove Staff 1 Others Present Jim Fonte, Union Grove Member Council Rock Larson, Wood CVSO Mrs. Joseph (Patty) Maehl John Margowski Tom Ludka, Waukesha CVSO Chris Jordan, Walworth CVSO Colin Moten, VAF Ray McClone Dale Peterson, AMVETS Post 911 Randall Dvorch, Shemanski Hall Beth McErlean, Adm. Asst Walworth Co. Ed Slovak, VFW & Korean War Vet Dave Hart, VFW Post 2751, Somers The briefing session to Board, Council and Committee members was called to order at 11 a.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. 1. Roll Call and Introductions Roll call of Board members: 4 members present for a quorum. Roll call of CVSO Advisory Council members: 7 members present for a quorum. Roll call of Legislative & Program Review Committee members: 5 members present, quorum not met. Roll call of Long Term Care Committee members: 9 members present for a quorum. Roll call of Finance Committee members: 10 members present for a quorum. Roll call of Council on Veterans Programs members: 21 members present for a quorum. 2. Certification of Notice of Meeting It was certified that the meeting was properly noticed. 3. Approval of Briefing Minutes of August 19, 2010 and October 14, 2010 It was moved by Mr. Moran, seconded by Mr. Freedman and carried on a voice vote to approve the briefing minutes of August 19, 2010. It was moved by Mr. Moran and seconded by Mr. Freedman to approve the briefing minutes of the October 14, 2010 meeting. Mr. Naylor asked that a correction be made to page 2, Legislative Report—the Office of the State Public Defender has applied for a grant; not the District Attorney. The motion carried on a voice vote with one abstention. 4. Legislative Report Secretary Black introduced Executive Assistant, Max Dulberger. Mr. Dulberger reported on the following:  In January, Republicans will hold a majority in both houses of the Legislature.  The Assembly Committee on Veterans & Military Affairs will be chaired by Representative Richard Spanbauer from Oshkosh.  The Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs will be chaired by Senator Randy Hopper from Fond du Lac.  Once the legislative session officially commences, the Department will begin tracking veteranrelated legislation and publishing updates on the Department’s website. 2         It is likely that the outgoing Legislature will convene a Special Session prior to the holiday break to review state labor contracts. Federal lawmakers are finalizing legislative action on expiring programs and appropriations prior to the end of the 111th Congress. On January 3, 2011, the 112th Congress will convene. The 112th Congress will take up the appropriations bill for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and legislation to enhance the Post 9/11 GI Bill. It is unlikely that federal lawmakers will pass legislation to upgrade the Post 9/11 GI Bill before the end of the year. The House and Senate are considering legislation which would give veterans more money for private college tuition, extend current benefits to on-the-job training programs, and provide a housing stipend for distance learners. President Obama signed the Veterans Benefits Act of 2010 on October 13th. This legislation also directs the USDVA Cemetery Administration to increase plot allowances from $300 to $700 effective October 1, 2011. On September 30, 2010 President Obama signed the Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act. Although the legislation came into effect on December 1st, the Consumer Price Index did not record an increase that would trigger an increase in the cost-of-living adjustment for veterans. Accordingly, it is unlikely veterans will receive an increase in their rates of compensation under this legislation. New presumptions of service connection for three specific illnesses associated with Agent Orange exposure during Vietnam era military service—veterans exposed to herbicides and disabled by chronic b-cell leukemia, Parkinson’s disease, or ischemic heart disease may begin receiving disability benefits on approved claims. The USDVA published a proposed rule on November 17th clarifying functional gastrointestinal disorders associated with Persian Gulf War service fall within the scope of existing presumption of service connection for medically unexplained multi-symptom illnesses. The proposed policy is open for comment until December 17, 2010 and could be implemented early next year. Mr. Naylor asked if we know how the plot allowance increase will impact our Department and the related budget. Ms. Holtan said the Department has not yet produced an updated revenue and balance form for the appropriation. The change goes into effect October 1, 2011 and it will impact our fiscal year 2012 revenue projection, and a paper will be prepared for the State Budget Office sometime in January. Mr. Naylor asked about the per diem payments to the Veterans Homes for the 70% serviceconnected veterans. Mr. Dulberger said, according to Senator Kohl’s office, it does not appear the legislation will move forward before the end of the 111th Congress; it is something being considered for the next legislative session and an issue for which the Department will actively advocate. 5. Division of Veterans Benefits Report James Bond reported the following:  Three CVSO Bulletins were issued relating to Claims operations personnel issues.  As of November 30th the ANVG spent $260,000 with outstanding commitments of $822,000.  As of month-end November, the RTG Program spent an estimated $70,000 of the $210,000 FY11 budget.  On track to spend the full VetEd Grant—as of November the program spent $94,000.  Applications will be sent out in early January for CVSO and TVSO grants.  Received 36 applications for the County Transportation Grant. 3         In the process of consolidating the Division’s outreach resources into one unit. March 28 through April 1, 2011, the USDVA Women Veterans Advisory Council will meet in Washington, DC. May 16-20, 2011 WDVA hosts the National Association of State Women Veterans Coordinators Conference at the Concourse Hotel in Madison. July 2011 the USDVA will hold the National Women Veterans Summit in Washington, DC. The Suicide Prevention work group is still in the preliminary stages of organizing itself and flushing out its mission and goals. The Waukesha Warrior Summit is scheduled for March 24, 2011 at the Waukesha County Technical College. There were 237 interments at Union Grove, Spooner and King during October and November and 209 military funeral honors were provided at King, Spooner and Union Grove during the same period. Bureau of Claims: Jim Engel retired and Bill Kloster resigned. Donna Chucka was assigned as supervisor of the staff and Josh Sniegowski is the lead person in the Claims unit. Both position recruitment requests are at DOA. Mr. Naylor spoke about a program called Veterans in Piping—a joint effort with DWD and the Association of Plumbers and Steamfitters for a funded 20 week training program for recently returned veterans. He asked that WDVA support this effort as well. 6. Division of Veterans Homes Report Brian Marshall, Division of Veterans Home Administrator gave the following updates:  Inpatient, full-care rates effective January 1, 2011will not change, and the veteran’s cost, after an offset for the USDVA Per Diem effective October 1, 2010 has decreased.  As of November 29, 2010 both Commandant positions for the Veterans Homes at King and Union Grove are setting-up for the in-person interview phase.  The Revenue Cycle Process Action Team met on October 19, 2010 to develop a charter. The purpose is to identify, design and place into operation the controls necessary to ensure the Veterans Homes properly, accurately and in a standardized manner record, process and collect all money due them for the care of members consistent with the State Accounting Manuals, and to design and place into operation controls that comply with the State Accounting Manual for the determination and authorization of uncollectible accounts receivable. The goal of the PAT is to develop standardized policies, procedures and forms for the Homes. Six policies are finalized: accounts receivable invoicing and collections; Medicaid billing and collection; VA per diem billing and collection; Medicare billing and collection; WVH charge off and uncollectible debts; and, accounts receivable reporting.  There have been no write-offs of uncollectible debt at either Home since 6/30/08 pending the development and approval of a write-off policy. Upon approval of the policy by the Secretary, WDVA will submit it to the State Comptroller’s Office. Mr. Moran asked that the Finance Committee and Board receive a report on what is being charged off once the policy is in place.  There was a formal tour and discussion of the DAV Wheelchair Shop—a valued service and a King tradition deserving of support and improvements—on November 10th. A formal tour of the DAV Wheelchair Shop and open-forum discussion with local service organization representatives was held on November 16th. A follow-up meeting with the DAV State VAVS Chairman, the Veterans Home King administration and the Division Administrator, Division of Veterans Homes was held on December 6th. .A draft Memorandum of Understanding was provided and the next scheduled meeting is January 11 th. 4  Options for the Wheelchair Shop are: building a new wheelchair shop; fundraising efforts with other veterans service organizations and their involvement; having an architect/engineer on call through a selection process with the Department of Administration. Mr. Freedman asked about the current status of the Wheelchair Shop. Mr. Marshall said it will continue to operate while the DAV reviews a list of issues and concerns presented along with the draft MOU.  The Admissions Process Action Team (PAT) was formed July 10, 2009; and the charter was developed July 16, 2010 for the purpose of standardizing the Homes admission process. The PAT has finalized all documents and is in the approval process for the admission forms which have been changed.  There are new admission checklist requirements for birth certificates. Mr. Naylor asked for a follow up on the applicant admission checklist after implementation.  Medicare Part A for the Wisconsin Veterans Home at King—at this time it is unknown what the effect will be when the new rates for the expanded Resource Utilization Groups (RUGS) are implemented. Mr. Moran asked about the timeline for a cost benefit analysis. Mr. Marshall’s goal is to have it by the next Board meeting.  The Department has begun restructuring discussions regarding assisted living facilities at the Veterans Home in Union Grove. The Department is looking for ways to operate more efficiently in order to maintain affordability for our members. Changes will be coming to the assisted living facilities in the next couple of months and will be reported to the Board at the February meeting. a. Jackie Moore, Acting Commandant, gave the King Home report.  Census at the end of October 2010 was 669—92.82% average occupancy.  Of the 155 female members, 27 are veterans, for an average of 23%.  Received 16 new applications and admitted 18 new members, but also experienced 12 deaths and 6 discharges. Currently, 52 applications are pending.  The case mix index for King was 0.862 for the month of October.  Of the 494 direct-care permanent positions, 459 were filled (92%) at the end of October.  Five LPN and 30 CNA vacancies remain to be filled.  Supplementing direct care staff are 1 RN and 8 CNA LTEs, which maintains the staffing level at 94.7%.  Josh Loescher, Security and Fire Chief, resigned effective December 1st.  Donations received in October--$19,565.  Gifts and Bequests expenditures during this period totaled $20,855. A sound system has been installed in the MacArthur Hall dining room.  On November 11th the Veterans Day Program was very well attended. Rep. Kevin Petersen was the featured speaker and Dan Naylor was the emcee.  On November 23rd Secretary Black visited the Home at King.  On November 29th the American Legion State Commander and Auxiliary President made their official visit and presented a sizeable donation.  The Pearl Harbor Day Program of December 7th was very well attended.  Projects: The Olson Hall window replacement project is winding down. The sitting shelters are open for member use. The wandering resident monitoring system will now be referred to as the “member freedom system”. New wiring and hardware is being installed in member residence halls and Olson Hall will be brought on line within the next couple months. The MacArthur Hall roofing project has begun. The power plant chiller was installed and the new cooling tower is currently under construction. The Olson Hall and Stordock Hall bathing and nursing station renovation project bid will be awarded in the next couple months. The A & E has been selected for the water tower corrosion control 5   and repainting project and is scheduled for the summer of 2011. The campus infrastructure project will renovate the pavement, sidewalks and storm water system in addition to upgrading the exterior lighting throughout the camp. There were no citations during this reporting period. Minority reports for both members and staff show little to no change in percentages with 98% and 96% respectively being Caucasian. b. Acting Commandant Shaughnessy gave the Union Grove Home report.  As of November 30, the campus-wide census was 194 (79%). Skilled nursing census was 119 members or 99% occupancy. The assisted living has 76 members—62% occupancy.  Of the 25 female members, 8 (4%) are veterans.  Since the last Board meeting, Boland Hall skilled nursing admitted 9 and discharged 10 members. Assisted living admitted 4 and discharged 11.  Campus-wide—17 applications received, 8 of which were approved and 9 needed additional documentation. Of the 17 applications, 10 were for assisted living and 7 for skilled nursing.  The case mix index (acuity) for Boland Hall is .97.  Of the total 155 campus-wide, direct-care permanent positions, 140 are filled (90%). As of the end of November, vacancies included 12 Nursing Assistants, and 1 Registered Nurse position. Supplementing direct care staff are 3 RNs and 10 Nursing Assistant LTEs.  Staff changes: Lillian McDougal was hired on November 29th as the payroll and benefits specialist.  During October and November, received $29,753 and spent approximately $11,832. Balance in gifts and bequests account as of November 30 was $50,892.00. A $16,000 donation was received from UAW Region 4. This donation is earmarked for gazebo improvements and common area furniture upgrades.  On October 1st the American Legion held a rummage sale which benefited assisted living members and raised nearly $400.  October 15th was the OctoberFest Party and on October 23rd a safe Trick or Treat was open to the community and hosted by the assisted living buildings.  The Veterans Day ceremony was well attended and Secretary Black visited Union Grove on November 19th.  The Pearl Harbor event was well attended and included a Pearl Harbor survivor.  Projects: Fairchild/Shemanske Halls—replacement of steam condensate tanks and HVAC air compressors. Fairchild interior common area modifications and refurbishment as well as exterior patio upgrade. Boland Hall—parking lot expansion and Maurer Hall window replacement. 7. Division of Administration Report At the October briefing meeting, Mr. Cappozzo provided a report on WDVA new hires for the calendar year period ending September 30th. The current calendar year hiring activity for the period ending November 30, 2010 reports the following: of the 126 new hires, 21 or 16.7% are veterans; the Department has utilized or is in the process of utilizing the hiring authority under the non-competitive appointment process for disabled veterans ten times. Of these ten positions, three disabled veteran hires were made, and three positions were filled under open recruitment since no targeted applications were received or the targeted applicants were interviewed but did not have the minimum qualifications for the position. The remaining four positions are still under recruitment. Concerns over the lack of applications and lack of qualified applicants have been addressed and relayed to the Department of Workforce Development, Veterans Employment and 6 Training Services Section. Of the 126 hires made, 67 or 53% are nursing positions which are physically demanding and require special training and licensing. The following is used to target veterans to WDVA vacancies: (1) all vacancies are posted to Wisc.Jobs, the official employment website for Wisconsin State Government and, (2) all recruitments are sent via emails to CVSOs, the Department of Workforce Development’s Veterans Employment and Training Services, the federal DVA vocational rehab counselor and other WDVA business partners. Diversity and recruitment activity also takes place to notify minority groups of WDVA employment activities through community organizations in the Madison, King and Union Grove geographic regions. These organizations include but are not limited to the Urban League of Madison, Milwaukee, Racine and Kenosha, the NAACP—Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Racine and Kenosha chapters, the Great Lakes Inter Tribal Council, the Latino Support Network, the Hmong Chamber of Commerce as well as the Waushara Hispanic Coalition. Pete Moran said all technical colleges should be notified of WDVA employment opportunities. Mr. Naylor discussed the differences between the OSER record keeping and the Department’s record keeping with part of it being which definition of veteran is used. It was requested for the February meeting to have a clarification and side-by-side comparisons for review by the Board. Mr. Naylor would like a discussion on recruiting veterans who are disabled and if there are other areas we could be pursuing. 8. Finance Report Ms. Holtan summarized financial statements as of the month ending October 31, 2010. Wisconsin Veterans Home-King Through the end of October, King’s operating revenues were $21.3 million contrasted with $23 million as of the same period last fiscal year. Operating expenses were $23.1 million, which is $274,000 greater than the same period in fiscal year 2010. The year-to-date net operating loss was $1,810,000. The balance of accounts receivable as of October 31, 2010 was $7.9 million. October cash and cash equivalents balance was $7,145,000. Wisconsin Veterans Home-Union Grove Operating revenues were $6,061,000 million through October 31st, a decrease of $178,000 over the same time period in fiscal year 2010. Year-to-date operating expenses were $7,023,000, an increase of $147,000 over fiscal year 2010. Personal services expenditures increased $170,000 while supplies and services expenditures decreased $62,000. The $961,000 net operating loss through October 31, 2010 is $325,000 greater than fiscal year 2010 results as of the same date. The balance of accounts receivable recorded in the state’s accounting system was $5,273,000 and the October 31st cash balance was a negative $5.6 million. Veterans Trust Fund Assets in the Veterans Trust Fund on October 31, 2010 were $61.3 million and included $14.9 million in veterans loans, $1.9 million of mortgage loans and $203,300 of advances to other funds. Operating expenses for the first four months of fiscal 2010 were $3 million which is 4% less than the prior fiscal year for the same period. The year-to-date decrease in fund equity was $2.7 million and the October 31st cash balance was $22.9 million, which is $1.3 million less than the beginning of the fiscal year balance. 7 Mortgage Loan Repayment Fund Total assets in the Mortgage Loan Repayment Fund were $278 million as of October 31st. That is $37 million less than in October 2009. Mortgage loans have decreased $44.3 million, real estate owned has increased $121,500 and advances to other funds increased $454,000. Bonds payable have decreased $28,275,000 since October 31, 2009 to $250,110,000, and do not reflect the extraordinary redemption of $27,365,000 on November 1, 2010. Year-to-date investment earnings have totaled $35,000. The October, November 2010 State Investment Fund earnings rate was 0.23%. The October 31st cash balance was $65 million and the insurance reserve requirement of 4% of the outstanding primary mortgage loan principal balance has been met. Statistical Reports The delinquency rate for the Personal Loan Program for October 2010 was 2.94%. The delinquency rate in the Primary Mortgage Loan portfolio for the month of October was 2.34%. No Primary Mortgage Loan applications were received in October due to the continued fund outage. Ms. Holtan provided an update on the special redemption in the amount of $27,365,000 and completed on November 1, 2010. Following this call, the amount of outstanding bonds payable is more closely aligned with the revenue producing mortgage loan. A fixed rate economic refunding was undertaken on outstanding bonds which are subject to redemption. It is not likely to be completed prior to the end of December due to recent unfavorable changes in the market that limited the size of the potential refunding and also due to available resources in the Capital Finance office. This is strictly an economic refunding; we will not be generating new lendable proceeds. Ms. Holtan provided a veterans homes accounts receivable PowerPoint briefing. The Veterans Home at King payor source as of the end of October amounted to $7.3 million. The Medicaid portion represented 47.6% of the accounts receivable balance; Per Diem represented 36.6%; and private pay was 6%. The 30 day and the 60 day balances total approximately $6.2 million or 85% of the accounts receivable balance at the King Home. The 365 day plus category is approximately 4% of the balance and is mostly Medicaid payments. The assisted living at Union Grove accounts receivable as of October 31st was $330,690. Of that amount, 50% was USDVA Per Diem. Private pay represented 28% and the next largest category was outpatient at 10%. The combined category of 30 day and 60 day balances is 65% of the total or $215,000. Union Grove skilled nursing accounts receivable is $5,032,000. Private pay of $2.6 million represents 51.2% of the total. Medicaid is 15.5% and the Medicare Advantage A is about 8.6% of the receivables. Of the $5 million outstanding, $1,037,000 is current; $473,000 is at 30 days and $159,000 is at 60 days. The 180 day to 364 day category and the 365 day plus category represents 58% of the accounts receivable balance for a total of about $2.9 million. Ms. Holtan said the amount recorded as uncollectible as of June 30th at Union Grove was $560,000--$25,000 in assisted living and the remainder for skilled nursing. The uncollectible amount estimated as of June 30th for King was $85,500. Mr. Freedman asked what the disparity is between the admissions policy of skilled nursing at Union Grove and King which causes this accounts receivable disparity. Ms. Holtan said one of the reasons for the admissions and revenue cycle PAT was to have a consistent admission standard and obtain the same information upon admission and handle the processing of financial information the same for each facility so we would get better control over what ultimately becomes our accounts receivable. 8 9. Wisconsin Veterans Museum Report Museum Director Michael Telzrow highlighted the following:  On November 17th the State Building Commission approved the 35% design report for the construction of a 99,258 gross square foot Preservation and Storage Facility for the Wisconsin Historical Society and the Wisconsin Veterans Museum for an estimated total cost of $28,250,000.  Attendance for October totaled 9,080 visitors and attendance for November totaled 7,763 visitors. Year to date attendance total was 37,643.  Two notable acquisitions are the William R. Temple Collection of WWI memorabilia, and materials used by Corporal Ray Sherman of Belleville, Wisconsin during WWII.  The Museum Foundation fundraising goal for 2011 is $100,000. The foundation will host a corporate/individual donor luncheon at the WVM on December 14th.  The 2010 Annual Appeal letters were mailed in mid-November.  The Museum submitted a Rotary Foundation Community Grant on November 30th for design and construction support of a new flag exhibit case.  Joining the Museum staff are Andrea Hoffman, Collections Manager and Andrew Baraniak, Processing Archivist.  Museum Store Sales: October FY 2011 sales gross profit was $3,616 as opposed to October FY 2010 gross profit of $2,857. The November FY 2011 gross profit was $4,767 as compared to November FY 2010 gross profit of $2,162.  Museum gifts and bequests cash balance to date is $24,867.75. 10. Briefing on WDVA Reorganization Plan and Timeline for Implementation Secretary Black will brief the plan to the Board on Friday. 11. Veterans Courts Update Clif Sorenson said he spent a week in Buffalo, NY studying the veterans treatment court. The program assists veterans who become involved in the justice system in getting treatment for mental health problems which may exist. This includes veterans returning from Afghanistan and Iraq. In Eau Claire County there is a team working with the Public Defenders, the District Attorney, the judges and veterans service officers and veteran’s justice outreach people who work for the Department of Veterans Affairs. A key element is the mentorship portion. A one-on-one relationship with a mentor from the community will allow an offender to stay out of the system. In the two plus years of operation in Buffalo, recidivism has been down to zero percent. Mr. Naylor said the Office of Public Defender received grant approval and they are preparing for the next application. There is training scheduled in March for a judge in Racine County. Milwaukee is working with the county jail to identify veterans as well as working with Dryhootch to connect with mentors. LaCrosse started a veterans court last month. 12. Suicide Outreach Program Initiative The topic was covered under the Division of Veterans Benefits Report. 13. Secretary’s Matters Secretary Black said a reorganization plan for the Department will be presented to the Board tomorrow; it is a plan that will lead us to greater accountability and greater efficiency. One year ago the Board tasked Mr. Black to lead the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs. His job as Secretary has been to bring transparency, credibility and renew a sense of dedication to a troubled agency. There is a change in how WDVA is conducting business. Some decisions have been very 9 difficult but those decisions have brought WDVA back into compliance with the law, corrected fundamental flaws in management and oversight and established an enhanced level of efficiency so the mission to serve veterans can be fulfilled long into the future.  The Claims Department cleared last winter’s backlog and we moved qualified people into place to make sure we don’t have that problem.  Just a few weeks away from putting into place a unified admissions policy at the Homes.  The outreach team has identified innovative new methods to reach veterans on the issues that matter most—suicide, mental health, unemployment and homelessness.  We have identified the gap in program areas and we are forging a new, targeted model for service delivery.  We landed a national Women’s Veterans Conference to be held this spring and we have renewed and strengthened our relationships with the VA. 14. Public Comment James Fonte, Chair of the Member Council at Union Grove, has been a resident at Union Grove for ten years. Last year’s concern was the increase in the rates. This year they are pleased to know there will not be an increase in the rates. Most of the members came here for their last home and it is like a community here which they do not want to lose. They are concerned about the restructuring of the assisted living facilities. Lenny Shier spoke about the DAV Wheelchair Shop at King. Several concerns were highlighted in a report produced by Mr. Shier. Mr. Moen said the Long Term Care Committee will take up the issue of the Wheelchair Shop at King. Tom Ludka, Waukesha CVSO, spoke about the Warrior Summit. Up until this week, no one from Dryhootch, WDVA or the VA has ever contacted his office regarding the Summit. He has the contacts in the community and with the Southeast CVSO Association. The next meeting of the SE CVSO Association is January 14th and they will accommodate anyone who could speak about the Warrior Summit. Joseph Maehl said we are here today to take care of veterans. His concern is that WDVA is one of the best kept secrets. To enhance Museum attendance he suggested the creation of another committee. Mr. Telzrow added that the Department has established the State Civil War Sesquicentennial Commission and he will be talking with Mr. Maehl about becoming involved. Bruce Markert noted that CVI was awarded the contract for the homeless program at Chippewa Falls. He asked if the Veterans Assistance Foundation was given the opportunity to bid on this contract. James Bond said the Department had an agreement in place for CVI to provide transitional services in King and at Union Grove. Part of that contract provision allowed for them to take over the Chippewa Falls site as well. The current contract ends in 18 months at which time it will be opened up for rebidding. Mr. Markert asked if there were referrals made by DWD, DVOPs and LVERs for the WDVA vacancies. Tony Cappozzo said for some of the vacant positions there were no applicants referred. Anthony Hardie introduced himself as a two-time combat veteran of the Gulf War and Somalia, 100% total and permanently disabled veteran, active on veterans’ issues and Gulf War veterans’ health issues, helping to represent his fellow Gulf War veterans primarily in our Nation’s Capitol for the last 15 years on a series of issues. He is a life member of the Disabled American 10 Veterans. He spoke to the Board members and attendees at the Briefing about it being a time for change at the state’s Veterans Agency. Mary Shepherd, Executive Board Local 892, spoke on the restructuring of assisted living facilities. She questioned the cost of care at Union Grove and why these costs are being passed along to the members. Other areas of concern: many staff vacancies remain open, the utilization of outside agency RNs to cover vacations while salaried RNs sit idle, contracting outside vendors when staff could be used instead. The overtime for CNAs is extremely high. 15. Recess/Adjournment It was moved by Mr. Freedman, seconded by Mr. Moen and carried on a voice vote to adjourn the meeting of the Board. It was moved, seconded and carried on a voice vote that the CVSO Advisory Council stand in recess. It was moved by Mr. Rock, seconded and carried on a voice vote that the Legislative & Program Review Committee stand in recess. It was moved, seconded and carried on a voice vote that the Long Term Care Committee stand in recess. It was moved by Mr. Walker, seconded by Mr. Roloff and carried on a voice vote that the Finance Committee stand in recess. It was moved, seconded, and carried on a voice vote that the Council on Veterans Programs stands in recess. The time was 1:45 p.m. 11 MINUTES CVSO ADVISORY COUNCIL December 9, 2010 Union Grove, Wisconsin Members Present Scott Berger, Marathon Yvonne Duesterhoeft, Jefferson Rick Gates, Polk Kathy Gausmann, Monroe Dale Oatman, Langlade Robert Stone, Winnebago Tony Tyczynski, Sauk Members Excused Andrew Clark, Outagamie Derrell Greene, Kenosha WDVA Staff Kenneth B. Black, Secretary Donna Williams, Deputy Secretary Max Dulberger, Executive Assistant Sara Stinski, Communications Director Jimmy Stewart, Chief Legal Counsel Micabil Diaz, Legal Counsel Colleen Holtan, Budget Director Tony Cappozzo, Division Administrator James Bond, Division Administrator Pat Shaughnessy, Acting Commandant—UG Jackie Moore, Acting Commandant—King Michael Telzrow, Museum Director Brian Marshall, Division Administrator Mark Mathwig, Bureau of Veterans Cemeteries Julie Van Metre, Executive Staff Assistant Jim McGarvey, BOIS Union Grove Russell Peck, Claims Office Colleen Roemer, WVH-King Others Present (not all inclusive) George Banda, AGIF Dave Boetcher, Board Member Mike Furgal Mike Gourlie, WACVO Jesse Haro, CWV Ed Healey Bill Hustad Rock Larson, Wood CVSO Tom Ludka, Waukesha CVSO Joseph & Peggy Maehl John Margowski Bruce Markert Duane Miskulin Dan Naylor, Board Member Dale Peterson Robert Piaro Al Richards Ken Rock Chuck Roloff, AL Lenny Shier, TREA Clif Sorenson, Eau Claire CVSO Jack Stone, PVA Tim Thiers, AMVETS Alan Walker Charles Young 1. Call to Order and Roll Call The meeting of the CVSO Advisory Council was called to order by Chair Gates at 1:48 p.m. Roll was called, a quorum was present. 2. Certification of Notice of Meeting The meeting was properly noticed. 3. Approval of Minutes of October 14, 2010 Meeting It was moved by Mr. Oatman, seconded by Ms. Duesterhoeft and carried on a voice vote to approve the minutes of the October 14, 2010 meeting. 1 4. Announcements and Introductions None. 5. Discussion Regarding the Proposed WDVA/BVA Lobbying Training for CVSOs Mr. Gates said lobbying training was discussed at the last meeting. There has been some question as to why CVSOs need lobbying training and some concerns it might be political, but that was never the intent. As advocates, CVSOs get involved in the legislative process because most benefits are a function of state or federal law. The CVSO Association President went to the regional associations and tasked them with coordinating the training. The NW is scheduled for training January 7th at 10:00 a.m. at American Legion Post 179 in Chetek. The NE and SW will have joint training on January 13th in Stevens Point and the SE will meet at 10:00 a.m. on January 14th at the Waukesha CVSO office. 6 Secretary’s Matters The Secretary had no items to report to the Council. Council Members’ Matters Not Subject to Adoption Scott Berger said on December 1st the CVSO Association leadership began monthly teleconference meetings with Secretary Black. A summary of the discussion was sent by Mr. Berger to all the CVSOs. Rick Gates said CVSOs had a question on CVSO Bulletin #949 with respect to the change in the burial and plot allowance benefit. There is some confusion as to whether or not it is $700 for both the plot and the burial allowance. The change doesn’t take effect until October 2011 and further guidance is expected from the US Department of Veterans Affairs. Northland Honor Flight is up and running; Pete Moran is one of the leaders in that effort. Robert Stone publicly thanked Mr. Naylor for his participation in the Pearl Harbor Day program held in Oshkosh. 8 Public Input None. 7 9. Next Meeting Schedule The next meeting is in February and will be announced by the Board tomorrow. 10 Adjournment It was moved by Mr. Stone, seconded and carried on a voice vote to adjourn the CVSO Advisory Council meeting, the time was 1:55p.m. Rick Gates Chair 2 MINUTES LEGISLATIVE & PROGRAM REVIEW COMMITTEE WISCONSIN BOARD OF VETERANS AFFAIRS Meeting of December 9, 2010 Committee Members Present Dave Boetcher Loren Christensen Yvonne Duesterhoeft Bruce Markert Ken Rock Rick Scollon Charles Young Committee Members Excused Mark Baldwin Roger Mathison Charles Vandenplas Victor Vela WDVA Present Kenneth B. Black, Secretary Donna Williams, Deputy Secretary Max Dulberger, Executive Assistant Jimmy Stewart, Chief Legal Counsel Micabil Diaz, Legal Counsel James Bond, Division Administrator Tony Cappozzo, Division Administrator Amy Franke, Bureau of Administrative Services Brian Marshall, Division Administrator Colleen Holtan, Budget Office Jackie Moore, Acting Commandant—King Pat Shaughnessy, Acting Commandant—UG Sara Stinski, Communications Director Michael Telzrow, Museum Director Chris Schuldes, Bureau of Veterans Benefits Jim McGarvey, BOIS-Union Grove Julie Van Metre, Executive Staff Assistant Colleen Roemer, WVH-King Russell Peck, Claims Office Others Present (not all inclusive) Russ Alsteen, Navy Clubs George Banda, AGIF David Benson Scott A. Berger, Marathon CVSO Linda Dancker, UWV Roger Fetterly, MOAA Mark Foreman, VVAW Marv Freedman, Board Member Mike Furgal Mike Gourlie, WACVO Mark Grams, Dodge CVSO Anthony Hardie, DAV Bill Hustad, WVV Rock Larsen, Wood CVSO Tom Ludka, Waukesha CVSO Joseph & Peggy Maehl Duane Miskulin Pete Moran, Board Member Dan Naylor, Board Chair Dale Oatman, Langlade CVSO Max Oleson, ARC Dale Peterson, AMVETS Post 911 Robert Piaro Al Richards Vera Roddy, UWV Chuck Roloff, American Legion Lenny Shier, TREA Clif Sorenson, Eau Claire CVSO Walter Stenavich, USSVWWII Jack Stone, PVA Robert Stone, Winnebago CVSO Tim Thiers, AMVETS Tony Tyczynski, Sauk CVSO Al Walker Ken Wendt, PLAV 1. Call to Order and Roll Call The meeting of the Legislative & Program Review Committee was called to order at 2:00 p.m. A quorum was present. 2. Certification of Notice of Meeting It was noted that proper notice of the meeting had occurred. 1 3. Approval of Minutes of October 14, 2010 Meeting It was moved by Mr. Rock, seconded and carried on a voice vote to approve the minutes of the October 14th Legislative & Program Review Committee meeting. 4. Discussion and Possible Action on WDVA Legislative Agenda Executive Assistant Max Dulberger provided a PowerPoint presentation on the seven high priority items recommended by the Committee. He provided basic talking points, information as to proposed changes, and possible courses of action. The following questions were asked by the Committee throughout the presentation:  If the Department receives GPR for the Veterans Museum, the veterans’ cemeteries and a $2.9 million supplement, how long will the Veterans Trust Fund be viable? Secretary Black said the GPR infusion will just get us through the biennium.  How much money does the GI bill cost the UW and Technical Colleges? Mr. Dulberger said it was in the ballpark of $20 million a year but he will provide more accurate information to Committee members after the meeting.  Regarding the bed tax exemption, what is a licensed bed? A licensed bed is the number of beds in the facility, whether occupied or unoccupied. No beds are permanently exempt from taxation. Mr. Boetcher asked the Committee to review the initiatives provided by Mr. Markert to see if any of them could be included with the seven high priority items. Mr. Boetcher asked the Executive Assistant to check on the cost of allowing up to three months of unemployment payable to all returning veterans and waiving the requirement that they have to be available and look for work during this reintegration time. After reviewing the initiatives, Mr. Boetcher recommended creating a Veterans Employment Act where four or five items are rolled together rather than trying to put them in the budget bill. Mr. Dulberger was tasked with contacting DWD, DOR and the Technical Colleges and UW to provide dollar figures numbers for Mr. Markert’s initiatives. Regarding the creation of a veterans marketing program to raise awareness of benefits and services available for veterans and their families, Ms. Stinski said the Department’s current biennial budget request includes $100,000 for a marketing campaign to promote veterans benefits. 5. Secretary’s Matters The Secretary had no matters to come before the Committee. 6. Public Comment Rock Larson, CVSOA Legislative Chairman, went over the CVSO Association’s legislative priorities which coincided with the Committee’s high priority items. The CVSOA is fully behind the Department on the bed tax exemption and the disabled veterans license plates. Tim Thiers said last session quite a few bills passed the Assembly but were never introduced on the floor of the Senate. What can veterans do to get legislation through both houses of the Legislature? Mr. Moen said about 20% of the bills introduced become law. It’s 2 just getting legislative members to push a bill through. You need to contact your local representatives both in the Senate and the Assembly. Mark Grams, Dodge County Veterans Service Officer, talked about the restoration of the Wisconsin GI Bill. Those veterans forced to go to Chapter 33, federal law, can’t go back to any other benefit. Is there any talk about restoring the credit-for-credit offset? Is there going to be a provision where the veteran has a choice, either take a supplemental payment and the credit offset or restore that credit so they can use it in the future? Mr. Boetcher recommended adding the years on after doing the 9/11; let the credits wait until your four years are completed under 9/11. Mr. Grams asked what is the current income stream into the Trust Fund? Ms. Holtan said the Personal Loan Program and some run-off portfolios that were transferred from the Mortgage Loan Repayment Fund many years ago. Non operating sources are the tax checkoffs and license plate fees. 7. Committee Members’ Matters (Not Subject to Adoption) Bruce Markert defined “veterans preference” and “veterans priority”. “Veterans preference”e in government positions mean additional points based on veteran status. “Veterans priority” means, of those who qualify for the job, the veteran will be interviewed before the non-veteran. The down-side of the priority is that the Office of Federal Contract and Compliance wants to see how many females are hired, how many ethnic minorities, how many disabled and how many veterans have been hired. In summary, priority is higher than preference. 8. Next Meeting Date The Committee will meet in February at a date to be determined by the Board. 9. Adjournment It was moved by Mr. Christensen, seconded by Mr. Rock, and carried on a voice vote to adjourn the meeting; the time was 3:05 p.m. Dave Boetcher Chair 3 MINUTES LONG TERM CARE COMMITTEE WISCONSIN BOARD OF VETERANS AFFAIRS Meeting of December 9, 2010 Committee Members Present Rod Moen David Benson Scott Berger Edward Healey John Hofer Joseph Maehl Al Richards Vera Roddy Clif Sorenson Committee Members Excused David Green Richard Paradowski WDVA Present Kenneth B. Black, Secretary Donna Williams, Deputy Secretary Max Dulberger, Executive Assistant Jimmy Stewart, Chief Legal Counsel Micabil Diaz, Legal Counsel Colleen Holtan, Budget Director Tony Cappozzo, Division Administrator Brian Marshall, Division Administrator Sara Stinski, Communications Director Jackie Moore, Acting Commandant-King Pat Shaughnessy, Acting Commandant-UG Michael Telzrow, Museum Director Jim McGarvey, BOIS-Union Grove Julie Van Metre, Executive Staff Assistant Chris Schuldes, Bureau of Veterans Benefits Any Franke, Bureau of Administrative Services Mark Mathwig, Bureau of Veterans Cemeteries Colleen Roemer, WVH-King Russell Peck, Claims Office Steve D’Amanda, WVH-King Others Present (not all inclusive) Russ Alsteen, NCUSA George Banda, AGIF Ben Berlin, JWV Rick Cherone, MOPH Loren Christensen Linda Dancker, UWV Yvonne Duesterhoeft, Jefferson CVSO Roger Fetterly, MOAA Paul Fine, ANU Mark Foreman, VVAW Mike Furgal Rick Gates, Polk CVSO Mike Gourlie, WACVO Mark Grams, Dodge CVSO & MCL Anthony Hardie, DAV Jesse Haro, CWV Bill Hustad, WVV Chris Jordan, Walworth CVSO Katie Herrem, LAB Michael Jackson, Dane CVSO Rock Larson, Wood CVSO Tom Ludka, Waukesha CVSO Mrs. Joseph Maehl Bruce Markert Duane Miskulin Pete Moran, Board Member Colin Moten, VAF Dan Naylor, Board Chair Dale Oatman, Langlade CVSO Max Oleson, ARC Robert Piaro Ken Rock, Door CVSO Chuck Roloff, Am. Legion Jim Romlein Bill Schalk Rick Scollon Lenny Shier, TREA Walter Stenavich, USSVWWII Robert Stone, Winnebago CVSO Tim Thiers, AMVETS Gary Traynor, BVA 1 Tony Tyczynski, Sauk CVSO Al Walker Ken Wendt, PLAV 1. Call to Order and Roll Call The meeting of the Long Term Care Committee was called to order at 3:07 p.m. A quorum was present. 2. Certification of Notice of Meeting It was certified that proper notice of the meeting had occurred. 3. Approval of Minutes of October 14, 2010 Meeting It was moved by Mr. Benson, seconded by Mr. Sorenson and carried on a voice vote (two abstentions) to approve the October 14th meeting minutes. 4. Briefing and Committee Discussion on Cash Flow for King Skilled Nursing and Union Grove Skilled Nursing and Assisted Living Facilities Ms. Holtan said the cash flow was briefed at the consolidated briefing meeting earlier in the day. Clif Sorenson asked why there are write-off procedures as opposed to aggressive collection activity. Ms. Holtan said the write-off of uncollectible debt is one policy the Revenue Cycle PAT is working to finalize. The PAT has also been working on policy with respect to the collection activity for each payor source, putting into place milestones at which they will take different types of actions. Mr. Marshall said there are six policies and procedures and having those in place will allow for more efficiency in operations and will be beneficial moving forward. Ms. Moore said WDVA is working with the Department of Revenue in collection efforts as well. 5. Committee Discussion and Action on the Fire Department at the Wisconsin Veterans HomeKing Jackie Moore said the Wisconsin Veterans Home-King is situated on 320 acres in rural Waupaca County, Wisconsin and provides a home for 671 elderly members who sleep in multi-story buildings. The Home has a customized Security Department to handle the unique needs of the facility. The officers are all certified as both first responders and fire fighters. The officers patrol the grounds throughout the day and night. They use a highly visible security vehicle to make their presence known and to discourage vandalism. They patrol on foot and bicycle. They cover the cemetery, the grounds and the tunnels on an ongoing basis. Security officers are key staff on PM and night shifts when there is only one nursing supervisor responsible for the entire facility. Maintaining a fire department at the WVH-King is just one aspect of the security officers’ job. It costs about $2.59 per patient day for the entire security and fire department. The Home is covered by the Waupaca Fire Department which is a volunteer fire department and takes about 20 minutes to get to the WVH facility and in the meantime, the Home’s officers respond immediately. 2 Committee member Dave Benson has worked in safety and security and visited King on November 8th to review the program and determine future operational standards and needs. He felt this program is functioning at a high degree of efficiency. The Safety/Security positions were developed with foresight and fiscal responsibility. It was moved by Mr. Healey and seconded by Ms. Roddy to table Committee discussion and action on the fire department at King until the February meeting. He wants to know how much it costs to have the fire department at King and how much it would cost to use the Waupaca County fire department. Mr. Moen wants a more detailed report on the fire department at King and the process used at Union Grove. Motion carried on a voice vote. 6. Briefing and Committee Discussion on the Status of Hiring Commandants for the Wisconsin Veterans Homes at King and Union Grove and the Timeline for Final Action on Hiring Brian Marshall reported at the consolidated briefing that as of November 29th WDVA is interviewing and setting up appointments for the Commandants at King and Union Grove. It is a high priority for the Department but a specific timeline for final action on hiring is not possible until the chosen candidate accepts the position and final background checks are made. Secretary Black said there is probably three to four weeks left in the process. 7. Briefing, Committee Discussion and Action on Status of Location and Operation of the DAV Wheelchair Operation The DAV Wheelchair shop was briefed at the consolidated meeting earlier today. Clif Sorenson said the veteran’s community will be watching this issue very closely. 8. Follow-up on Requirement to Provide Certified Birth Certificate upon Applying for Admission to the Homes Brian Marshall said the issue was briefed at the consolidated meeting. There were no Committee questions or comments. 9. Secretary’s Matters Secretary Black had a question for clarification on agenda item number 5. Information was provided on King’s fire and security department. He understands the Committee would like a comparison between King and Union Grove on the response times and the cost at King now versus if we went to Waupaca’s coverage. Ms. Moore said the King Home is still covered by Waupaca which responds any time 911 is dialed. Our staff on the grounds will respond first and they are trained to work with the elderly and they are trained in high rise buildings. Waupaca will follow up and put the fire out, however our people will be there much quicker. She added that the cost for security, fire and safety program at King is $646,008.80 per year. 10. Public Comment Chuck Roloff, of the American Legion, said their Chaplain was told the residents at Gates and Shemanske Halls were not getting a rate increase this coming year. He learned Gates Hall would probably be closed due to lack of residents. The current residents would move to Shemanske Hall and no other use for the closed hall was indicated. Mr. Marshall said the closing of an assisted living facility has not been established. Mr. Roloff continued by saying 3 the Chaplain was told the non-denominational services are no longer needed and a number of priests and ministers are coming in throughout the month. Memorial services for deceased members will only be held every other month. Mr. Shaughnessy said many clergy and lay clergy come to Union Grove. Reductions have been made to some religious services because of the volume. The decision to decrease the memorial services to every two months was made because it is a very staff-intensive proposition to get 60 members to and from the service. Mark Grams, Dodge County Veterans Service Officer, spoke on the birth certificate issue—to make things more streamlined in the admissions process. What about the DD-214 having to be certified, why is that a requirement? Mr. Stewart said the Administrative Code dealing with DD-214’s does not have the same exception as birth certificates. It says original or certified copy of the DD-214. The Homes sometimes contact a CVSO for an applicant’s DD-214 when that document is in the Department’s VBATS computer file. If the DD-214 is within the Department’s records, why can’t the Homes access that information as a first request? Ms. Moore said the Homes have access to the VBATS and they are now able to get the DD-214 directly from Madison. 11. Committee Members’ Matters (Not Subject to Adoption) Clif Sorenson said the safety of our members at King and Union Grove and the future facility at Chippewa Falls are tantamount to anything we do. 12. Next Meeting Schedule The Committee will meet in February, date and place to be determined by the Board. 13. Adjournment It was moved by Mr. Sorenson, seconded by Mr. Benson and carried on a voice vote to adjourn the meeting; the time was 3:45 p.m. Rod Moen Chair 4 MINUTES FINANCE COMMITTEE WISCONSIN BOARD OF VETERANS AFFAIRS Meeting of December 9, 2010 Committee Present Pete Moran Marv Freedman Mike Gourlie Steve Lawrence Duane Miskulin Todd Nehls Charles Roloff James Romlein William Schalk Robert Stone Alan Walker Committee Excused Jerry Polus WDVA Present Kenneth B. Black, Secretary Donna Williams, Deputy Secretary Jimmy Stewart, Chief Legal Counsel Micabil Diaz, Legal Counsel Max Dulberger, Executive Assistant Colleen Holtan, Budget Office James Bond, Division Administrator Tony Cappozzo, Division Administrator Brian Marshall, Division Administrator Sara Stinski, Communications Director Pat Shaughnessy, Acting Commandant-UG Jackie Moore, Acting Commandant--King Michael Telzrow, Museum Director Chris Schuldes, Bureau of Veterans Benefits Jim McGarvey, BOIS Union Grove Julie Van Metre, Executive Staff Assistant Amy Franke, Bureau of Administrative Services Mark Mathwig, Bureau of Veterans Cemeteries Colleen Roemer, WVH-King Russell Peck, Claims Bureau Others Present (not all inclusive) Russ Alsteen, Navy Clubs George Banda, AGIF Scott Berger, Marathon CVSO Ben Berlin, JWV Rick Cherone, MOPH Loren Christensen Linda Dancker, UWV Yvonne Duesterhoeft, Jefferson CVSO Roger Fetterly, MOAA Paul Fine, ANU Mike Furgal Rick Gates, Polk CVSO Mark Grams, Dodge CVSO Anthony Hardie, DAV John Hofer Bill Hustad, WVV Tom Ludka, Waukesha CVSO Bruce Markert Colin Moten, VAF Dale Oatman, Langlade CVSO Max Oleson, ARC Robert Piaro Al Richards Ken Rock Vera Roddy, UWV William Sims, NABV Walter Stenavich, USSVWWII Jack Stone, PVA Tim Thiers, AMVETS Gary Traynor, BVA Tony Tyczynski, Sauk CVSO Ken Wendt, PLAV 1. Call to Order and Roll Call The meeting of the Finance Committee was called to order at 3:50 p.m.; a quorum was present. 1 2. Certification of Notice of Meeting It was certified that proper notice of the meeting had occurred. 3. Approval of Minutes of October 14, 2010 Meeting It was moved by Mr. Lawrence, seconded by Mr. Walker and carried on a voice vote to approve the minutes of the October 14th Finance Committee meeting. 4. Status Report and Committee Discussion of Veterans Homes Accounts Receivables as an Output of the Revenue Cycle PAT, Including an Estimate of Necessary Write-Offs Mr. Moran said the report was given at the consolidated briefing this morning by Mr. Marshall. A follow-up report will be made in February. Mr. Gourlie said there is an arrangement at King with the County Care system but that doesn’t exist in Racine County. Has there been any effort to try to make such an arrangement with Racine County? Mr. Shaughnessy said the Finance Office has met with the Title 19 Supervisor and her staff several times asking for the same privilege and they were unwilling to grant access to their county system since we are state employees. Robert Stone suggested going through the CVSO who is a county employee. 5. Update, Committee Discussion and Action on Public Affairs Plan to Increase the Use of the Veterans Trust Fund Tax Check-Off Sara Stinski said the goal is to build awareness and educate the general public about the Veterans Trust Fund and the tax check-off as a way to support it.  Use PR strategies to create a buzz about the tax check-off being a simple, affordable way to show support for veterans during the tax preparation season.  Take advantage of electronic communications as a way to reach our most highly involved/committed audience: veterans and their families.  Explore relationships with organizations that either have the potential to reach or influence a large number of people, or reach smaller groups most likely to be receptive. Mr. Freedman has a problem with focusing on veterans and their families—it should be non veterans and their families who make contributions. Secondly, he suggested going to the State Commanders and the Council on Veterans Programs and ask their members to send letters to the editors about the check-off and what a difference it would make if each family contributed. Also, it would seem a good idea to reach out to the Regulation and Licensing Board that oversees CPAs. It was requested that Ms. Stinski generate a seed letter that could be sent out to the Commanders of veterans organizations. 6. Briefing on Enhanced Finance Website Data Mr. Moran said there has been ongoing information on the Department’s website. Ms. Stinski had a test server set up for the meeting attendees to preview the redesigned Department web page and she asked for feedback from Committee members in attendance. 7. Status Report and Committee Discussion on a Demand Analysis, Right-Sizing Plan, and a Business Plan for the King and Union Grove Veterans Homes 2 Ms. Holtan said the presentation will take place Friday at the Veterans Board meeting. All Committee members have received a copy of the slides which are going to be briefed. The business plan is one the Department will undertake internally and we have identified the need to do some restructuring of the operations at Union Grove. Part of the timing will be impacted by how long it takes to get outside consultants to provide certain pieces of an assessment with respect to options we would want to evaluate. We anticipate it being rolled out in the spring timeframe. Robert Stone said he was told if a veteran lives at the Home with his spouse, and then he passes away, the wife cannot stay at the Home unless she requires some sort of medical assistance which will be paid for. Mr. Stone said a younger spouse cannot go into King concurrently with the veteran if she is not eligible for medical assistance or some other payor source. Brian Marshall will look into the situation further. 8. Status Report, Committee Discussion and Action on a Cost-Benefit Analysis Regarding the King Medicare Title 18 Issue Mr. Marshall spoke on this topic at the consolidated briefing and will report back to the Finance Committee at the February meeting. Mr. Freedman asked if there will be a specific yes or no about whether or not we’ll have the same kind of Medicare eligibility we have at Union Grove and what the costs savings would be and the challenges, if any, for implementation. Mr. Marshall said the analysis will be as detailed as possible. 9. Briefing and Status Update on any WDVA Related s.13.10, s.16.50-5, s.16.515 and/or Building Commission Proceedings Since the August 2010 Board Meeting Colleen Holtan reported that no GPR or SEG position authority or budget authority requests have been submitted for consideration at a quarterly meeting of the Joint Committee on Finance (JCF) under s.13.10. No program revenue position authority or related budget authority requests have been submitted for 14-day passive review by the JCF under s.16.505. No program revenue budget authority requests have been submitted for 14-day passive review by the JCF under s.16.515. No segregated revenue budget authority requests for the ANVG Program have been submitted for 14-day passive review by the JCF under s.45.40(5). The State Building Commission approved the transfer of 48.31 acres of surplus vacant land at the Northern Wisconsin Center in Chippewa Falls from the Department of Health Services to the Department of Veterans Affairs for construction of a skilled nursing facility. The State Building Commission approved the following:  Design report for the Chippewa Falls Wisconsin Veterans Home facility and provided authority to construct the 72-bed skilled nursing facility for an estimated total cost of $20,000,000.  Request of the DOA on behalf of the Wisconsin Historical Society and Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs for the release of Building Trust Funds Planning in the amount of $1,375,000 for programming and planning of the State Museum Complex in Madison.  Design Report and provided authority to construct a 99,258 GSF Preservation and Storage Facility for the Wisconsin State Historical Society and the Department of Veterans Affairs—Wisconsin Veterans Museum for an estimated total cost of $28,250,000. 3 Pete Moran asked that this report be given at every Board meeting. 10. Briefing and Committee Discussion on Internal Audit Changes Put into Effect in Response to 2009 Holtan Memo Pertaining to Unauthorized Expenditures at the Wisconsin Veterans Home at King and Resulting Internal Audits Tony Cappozzo gave a 2009 audit report—status of internal audit changes. Three internal audit changes were recommended in Ms. Holtan’s 2009 audit report. The first one was to attach the “Training/Conference Approval Request” as supporting documentation to payment vouchers for tuition and training. Effective March 2010 this change was implemented. Recommendation number two dealt with the Bureau of Fiscal Services expanding its financial audit procedures for selecting payment vouchers for testing to judgmentally review direct charge payment vouchers in the amount of $5,000 or more for compliance with state and agency purchasing policies and procedures. This judgmental sampling started in March 2010. Third, the Bureau of Fiscal Services should expand its financial audit procedures to judgmentally select payment vouchers paid with no invoice number for compliance with basic standards for financial transactions. The expanded compliance review procedures were started in March 2010. Mr. Freedman understands that the Secretary has reduced the signature authority for a number of senior managers. He asked what kind of internal audits are conducted now to identify a non-budgeted or unauthorized expenditure as soon as possible. Ms. Holtan said those expenditures are identified as a result of a budget review process implemented by the Bureau of Fiscal Services. Those procedures require different program areas within the agency to quarterly report on their budgeted expenditures and meet with the Secretary’s office to review what has been purchased and look at the adequacy of their remaining budget authority to get them through the remainder of the fiscal year. 11. Secretary’s Matters Secretary Black had no matters to bring before the Finance Committee. 12. Public Comment None. 13. Committee Members’ Matters (Not Subject to Adoption) Mr. Freedman referred to the consolidated briefing earlier today and comments made by Mr. Hardie to include a statement that the State of Wisconsin’s Department of Veterans Affairs currently isn’t offering primary mortgages when other QVMB states are doing so. Mr. Freedman asked Ms. Holtan to explain why other QVMB states can still offer mortgages when Wisconsin cannot. Ms. Holtan said there are five QVMB states, Alaska, Oregon, Texas, California, Wisconsin. The financial position of the mortgage loan repayment program in each of those states is significantly different. The mechanism under which those programs are operated in the other states may also be different. In California they use a housing authority for their program. Wisconsin administers it directly through our Department of Veterans Affairs. 4 Most significant is the financial position of the program and Wisconsin’s program is not in a very good financial position. We have a very low equity position in the program, having transferred out a significant amount of assets to the Veterans Trust Fund in the past. At the time of the transfers, it was thought the Mortgage Loan Repayment Program would continue to be robust, grow and easily regain the equity that had been transferred away. Economic conditions have changed in that growth did not occur and the program is in a state of decline as loans are paid off. There isn’t the equity in the program that would allow us to issue a bond at a coupon rate above which the market would support a mortgage. We do not have the equity to buy down the cost of making a loan with bond proceeds. Mr. Freedman asked for a summary on the amounts that were transferred into the Trust Fund from various accounts within the mortgage funds since 1990. 14. Next Meeting Date The date for the February meeting will be determined at the Board meeting tomorrow. 15. Adjournment It was moved by Mr. Walker, seconded by Mr. Miskulin, and carried on a voice vote to adjourn the meeting; the time was 4:35 p.m. Pete Moran Chair 5 MINUTES COUNCIL ON VETERANS PROGRAMS Meeting of December 9, 2010 Members Present Russ Alsteen, NCUSA George Banda, WI AGIF Scott Berger for Mike Haley, CVSOA Ben Berlin, JWV Vera Roddy for Linda Dancker, UWV Roger Fetterly, MOAA Paul Fine, ANU Mark Foreman, VVAW Mike Furgal, VFW Mike Gourlie, WACVO Mark Grams, MCL Anthony Hardie, DAV Jesse Haro, CWV Bill Hustad, WVV Max Oleson, ARC Charles Roloff, AL Lenny Shier, TREA William Sims, NABV Walter Stenavich, USSVWWII Jack Stone, PVA Tim Thiers, AMVETS Gary Traynor, BVA Ken Wendt, PLAV Members Excused Mike Haley, VVA Vacancy, American Ex-POWs Others Present (not all inclusive) Dave Benson Dan Buttery, Fisher House Foundation Rick Gates, Polk CVSO Rock Larson, Wood CVSO Jon LiDonne, Waupaca CVSO Tom Ludka, Waukesha CVSO Bruce Markert Colin Moten, VAF Dan Naylor, Board Chair Dale Oatman, Langlade CVSO Corrine Radloff Al Richards Vera Roddy, UWV James Romlein Eugene Seidel Clif Sorenson, Eau Claire CVSO Robert Stone, Winnebago CVSO Tony Tyczynski, Sauk CVSO David Van Thiel, VA Medical Center Alan Walker WDVA Present Kenneth B. Black, Secretary Donna Williams, Deputy Secretary Micabil Diaz, Assistant Chief Legal Counsel Max Dulberger, Executive Assistant Colleen Holtan, Budget Director Brian Marshall, Division Administrator Jackie Moore, Acting Commandant, King Pat Shaughnessy, Acting Commandant, UG James Bond, Division Administrator Tony Cappozzo, Division Administrator Sara Stinski, Public Affairs Officer Michael Telzrow, Museum Director Amy Franke, Bureau of Administrative Service Chris Schuldes, Bureau of Veterans Benefits Mark Mathwig, Bureau of Veterans Cemeteries Jim McGarvey, BOIS Union Grove Julie Van Metre, Executive Staff Assistant Russell Peck, Claims Bureau Steve D’Amanda, WVH-King Colleen Roemer, WVH-King Mary Pavlick, WVH-King 1. Call to Order and Roll Call of Members The meeting of the Council on Veterans Programs was called to order by Charles Roloff at 4:40 p.m. A quorum was present. 1 2. Certification of Notice of Meeting It was certified that proper notice of the meeting had occurred. 3. Oath of Office As the Ad Hoc Committee was working on the Council’s Rules of Procedure it was discovered that individual Council members are required to take an Oath of Office as provided for in the state statutes. Each member signed a prepared Oath of Office and returned it to the WDVA Legal Counsel for notarization and filing. Board of Veterans Affairs members are also required to take an Oath of Office; other committee members are not required under statute to take an oath. Council Chair Roloff asked Secretary Black to have the Department record and file the signed Oaths of Office of Council members. 4. Introduction of Guests and Announcements None. 5. Approval of Minutes of October 15, 2010 Meeting It was moved by Mr. Thiers, seconded and carried on a voice vote to approve the minutes of the October 15th Council on Veterans Programs meeting. 6. Council Communications None. 7. Briefing on Fisher House—Dan Buttery, WI Chairman Fisher House Foundation Mr. Buttery introduced David Van Thiel from the VA Medical Center who works as the Fisher House liaison. The Fisher House Foundation has put Milwaukee on the short list to receive a home and Milwaukee will have to raise $3.5 million to move it forward. Currently about a half a million dollars has been raised. All proceeds are being controlled at the National Headquarters office in Maryland and 100% of the funds raised from the State of Wisconsin are earmarked for the Fisher House in Wisconsin. Once the threshold of community-raised funds has been reached, the Fisher Foundation will come to the table with another $3.5 million. A Board of Directors will be established as well as a sub-committee of veterans. All VSOs can sit on a sub-committee. The decision-making process comes through the State of Wisconsin at the guidance of the national office. The American Legion in the State of Wisconsin passed a resolution to support a Fisher House. Mr. Van Thiel said there are still a few buildable sites left on the VA grounds. Any building will have to go through the preservation office because this new construction will be close to historical buildings. Mr. Alsteen asked that consideration be given to locate the Fisher House near the spinal cord injury center. Mr. Wendt felt that Council members should get their organizations to draft a resolution in support of the Fisher House. Mr. Grams asked that the Fisher House subject be put on the agenda for the next Council meeting for discussion and action on endorsing the project. Mr. Hardie asked for a sample resolution that the Council members could work from to craft their own resolution language. 8. Wisconsin Veterans Museum Foundation Report The Museum Gala is May 5, 2011 at the Concourse Hotel in Madison and Jeff Shaara, best selling author of war novels, will be the speaker. 2 9. Activities within the Veterans Community Activities were provided in writing by and for each Council member. Mr. Hardie represented the Gulf War veterans in Washington, DC on the congressionally directed medical research program. There are a number of key military research programs that happen because of veterans service organizations and interested organizations. The programs are funded through lobbying activities and specifically earmarked each year in appropriations bills. For those interested in becoming a consumer reviewer, you have to be recommended by an organization and suffer from the condition itself or have a family member or loved one suffering from the condition. The website is DCMRP.army.mil if you want more information on the programs. 10. Briefing on USERRA from DOL The Chair did not speak with Dan Schmitz about appearing before the Council in Union Grove. 11. Comments & Questions on Report Given on Status of Wheelchair Shop at King Mr. Hardie, DAV, appreciates every effort toward resolving this issue. The goal of DAV is to continue to volunteer to assist veterans by providing wheelchairs and wheelchair repair and would like to do it in the most seamless, transition-free manner as possible. 12. Discussion and Action on DAV Resolution on WDVA Employment Mr. Hardie said the resolution was passed by the Council in June. Of the ten recommendations in the resolution, few if any have been implemented these past six months. If recommendations by this body are not implemented in a timely fashion what do members want to do? Mr. Grams said if the Council is advisory to the Board, it is up to them to take action, we’ve already advised them by passing a resolution. It was moved by Mr. Alsteen, seconded by Mr. Fine and carried unanimously on a voice vote to again go on record in support of the DAV Resolution and ask the Council Chair to bring it before the Board on Friday. 13. Veterans Courts—Training in Buffalo NY—Clif Sorenson Clif Sorenson, Eau Claire CVSO, is involved in the veterans treatment court which is expanding throughout Wisconsin and the nation. Eleven individuals from Eau Claire court system went to Buffalo, New York for a week under a grant from the federal justice system to learn about the veterans treatment court. It originated in 2008 in Buffalo, NY and has expanded to 41 courts in the country. The court is intended to provide a coordinated response to the needs of veterans involved in the criminal justice system who have served in any branch of service, including the uniformed public health officials, past or present, under any military discharge status providing they are eligible for community supervision in the parole and probation system. Veterans experiencing behavioral and chemical health issues and charged with a misdemeanor or felony are diverted from jail to treatment. The mission of the veterans treatment court is to promote public safety while supporting veterans and surviving dependents through coordinated effort among the veteran service delivery system, community based services, and the court, leaving no veteran behind. Most important is the mentorship program—other veteran volunteers who provide further support for those in the program. 3 The following counties in Wisconsin have these court systems: Rock, LaCrosse, Waupaca, and Eau Claire Counties. The point of contact for Eau Claire County is Judge Ben Proctor and in Rock County it is Judge Daley. Mr. Sorenson will report back in February his findings on getting a case transferred to jurisdiction with an active veterans treatment court. 14. Discussion and Action on Member Organizations not in Compliance or at Risk of Noncompliance with Attendance Rule Since the present protocol says action may be taken, it was recommended by Mr. Grams that the Council not take action to eliminate membership of the American Ex-POWs. 15. Discussion and Action on Ad Hoc Committee Recommendation on Proposed By-Laws and Rules of Procedure to Govern the Council on Veterans Programs The Chair asked for authorization to continue the Ad Hoc Committee until the completion of an acceptable Rules of Procedure document. It was moved by Mr. Hustad, seconded by Mr. Stenavich and carried on a voice vote to authorize the continuance of the Ad Hoc Committee. It was moved by Mr. Fine, seconded by Mr. Piaro and carried on a voice vote to authorize the Council Chair to ask the Board to task WDVA Office of Legal Counsel with reviewing the draft document and preparing written commentary before its February meeting. 16. WDVA Benefits Brief Chris Schuldes talked about WDVA benefits which are: Health Care Aid Grant for dental, hearing, and vision care, Subsistence Aid Grant for loss of income due to illness, injury or natural disaster; Assistance to Needy Veterans Grant Program; the Retraining Grant Program; County Veterans Service Office and Tribal Veterans Service Office Grants; the County Transportation Services Grant Program; and the Wisconsin Disabled American Veterans Grant. The Loan Programs are: Home Loan Program; Home Improvement Loan Program, Personal Loan Program. There is a Veterans’ Education (VetEd) Reimbursement Grant which reimburses 100% tuition and eligible fees at the UW-Madison rate per credit hour. The State Approving Agency operates under a federal contract and inspects, approves and supervises programs taught at Wisconsin Institutions of Higher Learning and non-college degree programs that lead to educational, vocational and professional objectives for eligible persons. The Troops to Teachers Program operates under federal contract and offers a second educational opportunity for those veterans or long-term National Guard and Reservists who are interested in becoming teachers. The Dislocated Veteran Worker Program coordinates benefits presentations for veterans and spouses being laid-off due to workforce reductions or plant closings. The Campus Open Houses for veterans benefits are an aspect of outreach. The Recently Separated Veterans Program involves monthly mailing to about 500 veterans who are newly separated from active duty. Mark Grams asked which benefits impact the Trust Fund. The Home Loan and the Home Improvement Loan proceeds come from the home loan repayment fund with minimal impact to the Trust Fund. Ms. Holtan said the salaries of people who work on the Home Loan Program might be split against the Veterans Trust Fund, and a portion to the Mortgage Loan Repayment Fund. There are a number of employees with multiple splits, including allocations to the Home. 4 Mark Mathwig talked about the Bureau of State Veterans Cemeteries which consists of cemeteries, military funeral honors and the Veterans Assistance Program. The Military Funeral Honors stipend budget of $246,600 is general purpose revenue from the state. Mr. Hardie said the Legislature will be interested in knowing how much it costs to run the programs and the number of full time equivalents which are needed to run the programs. Mr. Grams summarized for the clarification of the Council members—The Trust Fund pays for the ANVG Program, the Retraining Grant Program, County Transportation Services Grant, Wisconsin Disabled American Veterans Grant, Personal Loan Program (also an income source), the VetEd Reimbursement Grant. The State Approval Agency and the Troops to Teachers are federally funded The CVSO Grants are funded in a split manner, the largest portion from the Trust Fund and a portion from the Mortgage Loan Repayment Fund and a portion from the Homes. The Tribal VSO Grants are from the gaming fund. Military Funeral Honors stipend is GPR funded while the staffing for the team is funded from the Trust Fund. The majority of the cemetery operations are Trust Fund or Program Revenue and a portion is also funded by the federal plot allowance. The Veterans Assistance Program is funded from the Trust Fund with a portion funded with federal Per Diem. 17. Secretary’s Matters Secretary Black had no matters to bring before the Council. 18. Council Members’ Matters not Subject to Adoption Anthony Hardie recognized all staff present at the Council meeting. He commended Board Chair Naylor for attending the Council meeting. Paul Fine requested benefits booklets. Max Oleson, ARC, said this is a critical time of the year for the American Red Cross in its need for blood. The annual blood drive is December 23rd at the Alliant Energy Center, Madison. Disaster trailers have been established around the state and stocked with goods to help disaster victims. 19. Public Comment Bruce Markert talked to Dan Schmitz about the USERRA presentation. Someone from the Council has to contact him personally and he will need a time frame of 15 to 30 minutes to cover this subject matter. 20. Adjournment It was moved by Mr. Thiers, seconded by Mr. Fine and carried on a voice vote to adjourn; the time was 6:25 p.m. Charles Roloff Chair 5 BOARD MINUTES WISCONSIN BOARD OF VETERANS AFFAIRS Meeting of December 10, 2010 Union Grove, Wisconsin Board Members Present Dan Naylor, Chair Pete Moran David Boetcher Rod Moen (departed at 12:00 noon) Marv Freedman Board Members Excused LaMarr Franklin (Board Appointee) WDVA Present Kenneth B. Black, Secretary Donna Williams, Deputy Secretary Max Dulberger, Executive Assistant Jimmy Stewart, Chief Legal Counsel Sara Stinski, Communications Director Micabil Diaz, Legal Counsel Jackie Moore, Acting Commandant-King Pat Shaughnessy, Acting Commandant-UG Colleen Holtan, Budget Director Brian Marshall, Division Administrator James Bond, Division Administrator Tony Cappozzo, Division Administrator Michael Telzrow, Museum Director Amy Franke, Bureau of Administrative Services Russell Peck, Claims Bureau Steve D’Amanda, WVH-King Colleen Roemer, WVH-King Mary Pavlick, WVH-King Julie Van Metre, Executive Staff Assistant Jim McGarvey, BOIS-Union Grove Others Present (not all-inclusive) Russ Alsteen, Navy Clubs George Banda, AGIF Scott Berger, Marathon CVSO Ben Berlin, JWV Matthew Bills, DAV Chapter 39 Loren Christensen Russ Collins, USSV Linda Dancker, UWV Yvonne Duesterhoeft, Jefferson CVSO Roger Fetterly, MOAA Paul Fine, ANU Mark Foreman, VVAW Mike Furgal, VFW Rick Gates, Polk CVSO Peter Gilbert, JWV 701 Mark Grams, MCL Robert Granstrom, VARO Mike Gourlie, WACVO Jesse Haro, CWV Ed Healey Bill Hustad, WVV Tom Ludka, Waukesha CVSO Bruce Markert Duane Miskulin, AMVETS Colin Moten, Veterans Assistance Foundation Todd Nehls Dale Oatman, Langlade CVSO Max Oleson, ARC Renee Oshinski, VISN 12 Robert Piaro, VVA Casey J. Price, DAV Chapter 39 Al Richards Ken Rock, Door CVSO Vera Roddy, UWV Richard & Jewel Rodgers, NABVETS/CVI Jim Romlein Rick Scollon Lenny Shier, TREA Clif Sorenson, Eau Claire CVSO Jack Stone, PVA Robert Stone, Winnebago CVSO Tim Thiers, AMVETS Gary Traynor, BVA Tony Tyczynski, Sauk CVSO Charles Vandenplas, DAV 1 Alan Walker Ken Wendt, PLAV Owen Williams, USSVWWII 1. Roll Call and Introductions The meeting of the Board of Veterans Affairs was called to order at 9:05 a.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. A quorum was present. Russ Alsteen presented Museum Director Michael Telzrow with a check from the Navy Club and a personal check from Mr. Alsteen for the Wisconsin Veterans Museum Sesquicentennial programs. 2. Certification of Notice of Meeting It was certified that proper notification of the meeting had occurred. 3. Approval of Minutes a. Board Meeting of October 15, 2010 MOTION #1: It was moved by Mr. Moran, seconded by Mr. Freedman and carried on a voice vote (one abstention) to approve the minutes. b. Special meeting of November 15, 2010 MOTION #2: It was moved by Mr. Moran, seconded by Mr. Moen and carried on a voice vote to approve the minutes. c. Closed Session of November 15, 2010 Approval held over until the next Board meeting. 4. Board’s Veteran Lifetime Achievement Award The Board of Veterans Affairs Veteran Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Chester A. Caine (copy attached to these minutes). Mr. Caine introduced and thanked his family and friends present at the award ceremony and expressed his humble gratitude for the recognition. 5. Board Members’ Matters a. Individual Board Member Activity Reports Pete Moran worked with the NW CVSOs and NE Minnesota veterans’ advocates to establish an Honor Flight Hub in Duluth, Minnesota. Honor Flight Northland has been chartered by the National Honor Flight Organization and its first flight is scheduled for May 14, 2011. Mr. Moran delivered the keynote message during the Veterans Day Observance at the Northern Wisconsin Veteran Memorial Cemetery in Spooner. Dave Boetcher has been working on setting up the lobbying training as a way to make sure veterans can get a strong message to the Legislature in this budget cycle. Rod Moen gave a Veterans Day speech and was a part of the firing squad. Dan Naylor participated in the Veterans Day ceremony at King; he attended the NE CVSO Association Regional meeting; he visited and toured Dryhootch in Milwaukee and attended the 2 Milwaukee Allied Veterans Council meeting. Mr. Naylor was a part of the Winnebago County Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day at the EAA. 6. Board Action from Committee and Council Meetings CVSO Advisory Council. Rick Gates said there was no action taken at the Council meeting that requires Board consideration. Legislative & Program Review Committee. Dave Boetcher said the Committee discussed the WDVA seven point legislative agenda and went over alternatives for possible action on those items. There was no action taken for Board consideration. Finance Committee. Pete Moran said the items of business included: a status report and discussion of the Veterans Homes Accounts Receivables , a status report on the public affairs plan to increase the use of VTF check-off on tax forms; a status report on the availability of financial data on the Department’s enhanced web site; a written report on a demand analysis, right-sizing and business plan in Union Grove; a status report on the cost-benefit analysis regarding King Medicare Title 18 issue; a briefing on a variety of state statutes relating to bonds and funds transfers to the Department from the State of Wisconsin; and a briefing on the internal audit changes put into effect with regard to internal auditing procedures for the Veterans Home at King. The Committee did not address business items requiring Board action. Long Term Care Committee. Rod Moen said there were no items addressed which require Board action. One item discussed at length dealt with the Fire Department at King and Committee members asked for additional information to include the process of fire protection at Union Grove. Council on Veterans Programs. Chuck Roloff said the ad hoc committee reviewed the Protocols and By-Laws of the Council and learned that Council members are required to take an Oath of Office which was accomplished at the meeting. The Council heard a briefing on the Fisher House; Veterans Courts, and all WDVA benefits. The ad hoc committee of the Council was empowered to continue its work on the By-Laws. The Council is requesting authorization by the Board for WDVA Legal staff to review the draft By-Laws and make commentary before the February meeting. Statutory changes will have to be made to bring in line some of the common practices of the Council. MOTION #3: It was moved by Mr. Freedman, seconded by Mr. Moran and carried on a voice vote that the Board of Veterans Affairs requests the Office of Legal Counsel to advise the Board by its February 2011 meeting of the legal sufficiency of the Council on Veterans Programs’ current draft By-Laws and Rules of Procedure as well as any recommendations the Office of Legal Counsel deems appropriate. 7. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Reports Renee Oshinski, VISN 12, highlighted the following from her written report (found on the Department’s web site):  The Madison VA Director, Debrah Thompson has accepted a detail to the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center in Chicago for a period of two to three months.  The FY 11 budget for VISN 12 included a 7.2% increase to general purpose dollars.  Insurance collections have declined. VISN 12 could be 12% to 15% behind the established collections goal. 3      There will be more case managers for homeless veterans and more HUD-VASH vouchers to find people housing. Adding resources to Patient Aligned Care Teams. When someone is assigned to a primary care team they have the appropriate people in place to get questions answered and appointments made. Putting resources aside to build out the Green Bay CBOC. Telehealth has been implemented in many rural CBOCs. All veterans seeking a mental health appointment within 7 days of their initial contact occurs 94% of the time and 92% for OIF/OEF veterans. Currently, the VISN is scheduling 86% of new primary care appointments within 14 days and 93% of specialty care clinics within 14 days. VA’s transparency program reports VA health care goals, successes and opportunities to improve. The VISN 12 information can be accessed at http://www.hospitalcompare.va.gov/ReportsVISN12.asp Looking at expanding the size of the Loyal CBOC in Clark County and in the beginning stages of assessing space needs at Kenosha. In addition to Veterans Courts, VISN 12 has health care for re-entry veterans—people who have been incarcerated and who are looking to make the leap back into the community.    Robert Granstrom, Director of the VARO in Milwaukee, provided a snapshot of what is occurring at the Regional Office. There are currently 600 employees at the Regional Office working two shifts. They have 19,000 ratings in Milwaukee and out of that about 7,500 are ratings for Wisconsin veterans; the remainder represents other states served in the Pension Center. The first couple months of the year 8,300 claims were rated. The VARO is working on the Nehmer Agent Orange claims. About 900 of the 1,500 original claims are pending with a finish deadline of the end of February. Nationwide, the inventory is up to about 737,000 ratings with the Nehmer backlog. Since October 1, the Milwaukee VARO has rated 154 claims for homeless veterans. They are currently working on 40 initiatives Secretary Shinseki has going on nationwide, about four or five of which Milwaukee is involved. 8. Board Discussion and Action on Commencing a National Search for the Selection of the Department Secretary MOTION #4: It was moved by Mr. Moen and seconded by Mr. Moran that the Board remove item 8 from the agenda. Roll call: Naylor, no; Boetcher, aye; Moran, aye; Moen, aye; Freedman, aye—Motion carried. Board Discussion and Action on Proposed Amendments to Sections 2.03, 3.04, 5.05, 5.06, and 6.03 of the Board of Veterans Affairs Rules of Procedure Mr. Freedman said changes to the Board’s Rules require ten-day advance notice to every Board member. On November 29th Mr. Freedman sent by email proposed changes to the Board of Veterans Affairs Rules of Procedure. Chief Legal Counsel advised the Board Chair and Mr. Freedman of a potential conflict between two opinions of the prior Attorney General. On the advice of Council the Board Chair and Mr. Freedman requested the current Attorney General to reconcile what appears to be a potential conflict. For that reason the motions offered today will be limited to draft amendments for Sections 3.04, 5.05 and 6.03. 9. 4 Section 3.04 refers to the responsibilities of the Chair and references previous Addenda to the Board Rules which no longer exist because they were previously incorporated into the body of the Rules themselves. MOTION #5: It was moved by Mr. Freedman, seconded by Mr. Moen and carried unanimously on a roll call vote to adopt the proposed change to Section 3.04. Section 5.05. Quorum. Currently four Board members constitute a quorum. When originally drafted, because seven Board members are authorized, it was assumed there would always be seven Board members serving on the Board. Such is not the case at this point in time. The standard for determining quorums is a majority of members serving. The proposal recommends striking the reference to four Board members and substituting the words, “a majority of”. MOTION #6: It was moved by Mr. Freedman, seconded by Mr. Moran and carried unanimously on a roll all vote to adopt the proposed change to Section 5.05. Section 6.03 deals with establishment and termination of Board committees, subcommittees and councils. The proposed change authorizes the Board Chair to establish informal advisory and working groups consisting of less than a majority of Board members. The current language allows a working group to consist of three members and since only five Board member seats are filled at this time, a quorum of the Board would be met and it would no longer be an informal working group. MOTION #7: It was moved by Mr. Freedman, seconded by Mr. Moran and carried unanimously on a roll call vote to adopt the proposed change to Section 6.03. 10. Briefing, Board Discussion and Action on 2011-13 WDVA Budget Colleen Holtan said on October 18th the Department provided an updated briefing of its biennial budget request to the State Budget Office analyst and team leader. A significant number of their questions relate to the historical expenditures from the Trust Fund. The State Budget Office will brief Governor-Elect Walker’s transition team next week.  If everything requested in the budget, including the supplement, is passed, WDVA should be at zero dollars at the end of Fiscal Year 2013.  If not, based on the adjusted base budget WDVA has a slight cash balance year-end 2012 but very clearly negative in 2013. 11. Briefing, Board Discussion and Action on Department’s 2011-13 10% Budget Reduction Submission Colleen Holtan provided a PowerPoint presentation on the budget reduction plan. The Governor’s budget reduction plan required a 10% permanent base reduction. The State Budget Office offered some exclusions of budgetary base subject to reduction—the operation of the Veterans Homes and Veterans Memorial Cemeteries; appropriations used to make loans; federal appropriations; sum-sufficient appropriations; debt service, and gifts and bequests appropriations. After those exclusions, they came up with a required reduction of $3,230,040 biennially, $1,615,020 annually. The plan was submitted by the Department to the Department of Administration with the notation that it was subject to approval of the Board. In the plan was a program reduction of $1.5 million annually in the Personal Loan Program; and, administrative reduction of $115,020 annually in foreclosure loss payments appropriation. 5 Mr. Freedman raised a point of concern that the above information was brought to the Board for its approval a month after it was actually submitted. It is the responsibility of the Secretary that matters requiring Board approval should be received by the Board in a timely fashion and not after the fact. MOTION #8: It was moved by Mr; Moran, seconded by Mr. Moen and carried unanimously on a voice vote to approve the Department’s budget reduction plan as submitted to the Department of Administration. 12. Board Discussion and Action on Veterans Homes Accounts Receivables, Including an Estimate of Necessary Write-Offs Ms. Holtan said the briefing was provided at the Finance Committee yesterday. Mr. Moran said the Board will have a follow-up report in February. 13. WDVA Briefing on a Demand Analysis, Right-Sizing Plan, and a Business Plan for the King and Union Grove Veterans Homes Ms. Holtan said a business plan will be forthcoming for the Union Grove Veterans Home. Jeff Baumann, Program and Planning Analyst in the Office of Policy, Planning and Budget, prepared demand projections and presented a PowerPoint briefing to the Board. Mr. Bauman said the analysis addresses skilled nursing only, not assisted living or domiciliary. He began with demographics for the King and Union Grove Veterans Homes, population trends and the demand analysis for King, Union Grove and Chippewa Falls. The conclusions taken from the study were: usage rates at state veterans homes declines with distance; a declining state veteran population and reduced skilled nursing facility usage will cause the census at King to be reduced to half of the current level by 2030; there is excess demand in the Union Grove market; and there will be excess demand in the Chippewa Falls market beginning in 2014. (The entire briefing is posted on the Department’s web site.) Mr. Naylor said the demand analysis for Union Grove should be briefed to the Board in February. Mr. Moen noted from the presentation it is very clear that distance is a major factor, and possibly smaller is better. He would like the Long Term Care Committee to have this topic on its agenda for the February meeting in Madison. Mr. Boetcher asked if there is a way for us to know whether the private market is looking at the similar drop offs and whether we are in competition with them. Mr. Baumann said the private sector is going to look more for private pay people, most of our members are Medicaid. The King Home is about 80% Medicaid; we do not compete directly with private nursing homes. Mr. Naylor asked for Mr. Baumann’s background research comparison information. How does the forecast look for a private nursing home and how do we compare with the industry, not just from the veterans’ perspective. Mr. Freedman sees this as a significant first step toward the process of identifying right-sizing the Veterans Homes for the future. The numbers received today underscore how important it is to move forward effectively, prudently and quickly. 14. Briefing, Board Discussion and Action on Status of Proposed WI Veterans Home at Chippewa Falls 6 Colleen Holtan said the Department is on schedule with respect to the planning for the Chippewa Falls Veterans Home. The final planning review documents are to be to the Division of State Facilities (DSF) from the Architect and Engineering firm today. The DSF will complete its final review by the middle of January. By February 10th the DSF will issue bidding documents for the project. Bids will open mid March in time for us to submit the remaining requirements to the USDVA in order to get the federal grant for the project. Construction is anticipated to begin in April; a groundbreaking ceremony is tentatively set for May 20, 2011. We expect substantial completion in October 2012 and occupancy in November 2012. 15. Briefing, Board Discussion and Action Regarding WDVA Reorganization and Implementation Timeline Secretary Black’s presentation consisted of about 30 PowerPoint slides (found on the Department’s web site). The Secretary gave an overview of how the Department will potentially look and requested Board approval to continue to move forward as we look at reorganization and transformation of the Department of Veterans Affairs. The reorganization plan maps out specific steps to operate more efficiently, increase outreach, address key issues and utilize our workforce more productively. With the strategic plan objectives in mind proposed changes are being sought to evaluate programs and services, increase utilization of programs and services, modify existing programs and services to meet changing needs and identify, develop and implement new programs and services. Key transformations:  Strengthen outreach, sharpen geographic focus, synchronize outreach to the needs of veterans and streamline benefits and services operations.  Strengthen communication throughout the organization, including: Division of Veterans Homes, Division of Veterans Benefits, Wisconsin Veterans Museum, and Office of Public Affairs.  Enact structural changes for operational effectiveness of the Homes and identify operational efficiencies such as consolidate internal functions and eliminate duplication of functions  Maximize skills and expertise of the current workforce, identify gaps in skills and expertise, reallocate existing personnel to areas and assignments that most need manpower, and hire, if necessary. Pete Moran and Marv Freedman said the Board needs some time to digest this reorganization plan. Mr. Freedman asked the Chair to consider holding a special Board meeting no later than January 15th so the Board can discuss the reorganization plan in more detail and provide input and recommendation from the Board prior to any action taken. He understands there are constraints and challenges throughout the Department. He has been an advocate about the need to reorganize the entire structure of the Veterans Homes and requested that the Homes section to be flushed out in greater detail. Mr. Freedman asked why all Finance and Audit functions of the Department are not consolidated within the Office of Policy, Planning and Budget. He said the reality is the incoming Governor and Legislature are not going to be favorable to new hires, but there could be realignments. What’s missing is data on the cost savings to be realized through attrition; are there places in top and middle management that can be restructured. Mr. Freedman asked that the Board be provided with a detailed diagram of the current structure of the Department indicating how many staff members are in each bureau and any sub-sets at the bureau level. Finally, he recommends to the Board Chair that implementation of this plan be held until the Board has a chance to do a more intensive review, make recommendations and take appropriate action. Mr. Boetcher thought an important part would be to look at staffing levels for the last two budgets and what the proposed staffing level is for the next budget cycle. He feels serious consideration needs to be made in regard 7 to duplication at the Homes in the Commandant, Deputy Commandant and Administrator positions. Statutory changes can be made to rectify this. Mr. Naylor said the need for coordination and collaboration has been identified. In the areas of specialty expertise, outreach—he would like to see some reference made as to how we coordinate with public or private organizations. The potential for duplication is one we cannot afford. What are we doing to ensure we are not duplicating efforts in the community but filling gaps in a needed role? At this point in the meeting, Board Member Moen had to depart for a previous commitment. 16. Briefing, Board Discussion and Action on any Related s.13.10, s.16.505, s.16.515 and/or Building Commission Proceedings Since the August 2010 Board Meeting Ms. Holtan said only the Building Commission took action since the August Board meeting. It approved the transfer of vacant land at the Northern Wisconsin Center at Chippewa Falls from DHS to DVA for the Chippewa Falls Veterans Home. At that same meeting they approved the design report and gave WDVA authority to construct the Chippewa Falls Veterans Home. On November 17th the State of Wisconsin Building Commission approved a DOA request on behalf of the Historical Society and the Veterans Museum for the release of building trust funds for the purpose of planning the state museum complex. They approved the design report and provided authority to construct the Preservation Storage Facility which will be shared jointly by the Historical Society and the Department of Veterans Affairs but owned by DOA. 17. Briefing, Status Update and Board Discussion Regarding all Current WDVA Process Action Teams (PATs) and all PATs that Completed their Work since the October Board Meeting Mr. Moran said the report was heard at the consolidated briefing yesterday. MOTION #9: It was moved by Mr. Freedman, seconded by Mr. Moran and carried on a voice vote that Board members be provided copies of all final Process Action Team reports within fifteen days of the completion of such reports and their transmittal to the Department Secretary. 18. Briefing, Board Discussion and Action on the Status of Hiring Commandants for the Wisconsin Veterans Homes at King and Union Grove and the Timeline for Final Action on Hiring Mr. Naylor said the Board heard the report at the meetings conducted yesterday. Mr. Boetcher asked if the Board could make a motion to freeze hiring of Commandants until the conclusion of the reorganization analysis. Mr. Stewart said we are in an already approved budget cycle where not only both positions have been authorized but they have been funded through the budgetary process. Mr. Boetcher reiterated his concern that the rates charged to the members are reflected in expensive management costs at the Homes. 19. Status Report, Committee Discussion and Action on a Cost-Benefit Analysis Regarding the King Medicare Title 18 Issue Mr. Moran said the report was heard at the consolidated briefing yesterday. 20. Briefing, Board Discussion and Action on the Status of Location and Operation of the DAV Wheelchair Operation Mr. Freedman was encouraged to see the Department actively engaged with principles in trying to resolve the status and location of the DAV wheelchair operation. When might the Department expect an MOU among affected veterans’ organizations on this subject? Brian Marshall said an 8 MOU has been drafted and discussions are occurring. The next meeting is scheduled for January 10-2011. The DAV is looking at proposed locations of building a new facility. Mr. Freedman asked if other organizations, other than DAV, have expressed the level of concern and desired involvement in some fashion with this process. Have the representatives on the Council on Veterans Programs supported DAV’s efforts to get this resolved and are they looking to DAV to be the lead? Mr. Roloff said the DAV has been running point on this issue and the Council is in support of their position. Mr. Freedman asked how things will be handled as far as location of the shop, the parking, the keys, the computers—in the interim between now and when the MOU is completed? Ms. Moore said the wheelchair shop will be operating in the same location until something is resolved. Some safety concerns will be worked through with the DAV. Charles Vandenplas, DAV, said the Department has been willing to work with the DAV on the parking and safety issues. The proposed MOU is being looked over by DAV state legal counsel and the State Commander. The DAV will maintain the facility at King and will move forward and have a great relationship with WDVA in the future. 21. Update, Board Discussion and Action on Public Affairs Plan to Increase the Use of the Veterans Trust Fund Tax Check-Off Mr. Moran said the Finance Committee received the public affairs plan yesterday. 22. Secretary’s Matters Secretary Black appreciates comments from the Board on the reorganization and they will be taken into consideration. The Department will be prepared to work on the issues and make another report at the next meeting of the Board. 23. Public Comments (speakers limited to 5 minutes each) Chuck Roloff said the Council on Veterans Programs received a resolution from the DAV which the Council would like the Board to review. Upon the recommendation of the DAV, the Council on Veterans Programs approves the “Increasing Employment of Veterans and Disabled Veterans at WDVA” report and recommendations and forwards the report and recommendations to the Board of Veterans Affairs with the recommendation it reviews the study and report and implement the report’s recommendations. Mr. Freedman recommended the resolution be referred to the Legislative and Program Review Committee. Matthew Bills, representing DAV 2nd District, spoke on the topics of the WDVA proposed reorganization , the Veterans Trust Fund in 2013 and WDVA’s hiring of veterans. Mr. Naylor said the Board will be given a report on veterans’ employment at its next meeting. Mike Gourlie, representing WACVO, serves on the Council on Veterans Programs and the Finance Committee. He spoke about veteran hiring and the Council’s resolution on that subject. Does the Department have any mandatory objective and written criteria which are used when the Department makes a decision not to hire a veteran? Secretary Black said the question will be researched. Mr. Gourlie is a 30 year state employee and during a period of time he managed an operations section which had 150 employees. It was an administrative directive within his department to pay special attention to various under-represented positions. Whenever he did not hire within one of those under-represented positions for which he had a candidate, he had to write a justification consistent with the benchmarks established for the position. As part of the review being done for the DAV, he asked this be considered and be a priority when taking a look at veteran hiring in the future. 9 Mr. Gourlie said the Board heard a presentation by Ken Grant of Workforce Development in which he stated some of the challenges with veteran hiring within the Department have to do with the need for so many skilled care positions at the institutions. Mr. Grant said they have access to vocational rehabilitation services and all WDVA has to do is partner with DWD. Mr. Gourlie requested research into this statement and an answer be provided to both the DWD and DVA that they could agree upon. Mr. Stewart said it’s difficult to say if DWD will agree with the answer we arrive at, but we can provide an answer that we agree on. Scott Berger, Marathon County Veterans Service Officer representing the CVSO Association spoke on WDVA outreach and reorganization which he understands to be similar to the Department’s Regional Coordinator positions of the past. He is concerned the outreach teams may be duplicating what CVSOs already do. Mr. Berger thought the CVSO Association could have been approached about this proposal and had some input as to what an outreach specialist could do in each CVSO region. Mark Grams, Dodge County Veterans Service Officer, spoke on reorganization and the Veterans Trust Fund. The gaps are in dental care, veterans can’t pay their rent, can’t pay their mortgage, can’t buy food, they’ve lost their jobs, and they can’t provide for their families. That’s where they need the help. The benefits funded by the Veterans Trust Fund are—Assistance to Needy Veterans Grant, Retraining Grant, CVSO grants, County Transportation Services Grant, Wisconsin Disabled American Veterans Grant, Personal Loan Program funded by the Trust Fund but also an income source to the Trust Fund, Veterans Education Reimbursement Grant, Veterans Cemeteries, funeral honors and the Veterans Assistance Program. Mr. Grams said we need to put more money into the gaps for our veterans as opposed to more personnel. Yvonne Duesterhoeft said there have been some proactive WDVA employees who are looking for a way to make a difference and fill the gaps. She would like to be able to visit every nursing home in her county and find out if there are veterans on Medicaid who should be getting a $90 a month federal pension. She has a plan for Jefferson County in which service officers from individual veterans service agencies are engaged to help do some footwork; she is not sure putting more people in outreach positions at WDVA is the answer. Paul Fine spoke on the Home’s fire department and security. He feels strongly about not eliminating these services on the grounds of the Veterans Home at King. He personally knows about the importance of a quick response to 911 calls. 24. Other Matters Not Subject to Adoption Mr. Freedman announced that Tony Cappozzo is retiring from the Department. On behalf of the Board he thanked Tony for a job very well done. Tony was the first official custodian for the records of the Board of Veterans Affairs. Mr. Naylor announced that Pat Shaughnessy is attending his last Board meeting as he has accepted another position in Milwaukee. 25. Next Meeting Date MOTION #10: It was moved by Mr. Moran and seconded by Mr. Freedman to approve the following schedule for 2011 meetings: February 10 and 11 in Madison; April 14 and 15 in Madison; June 16 and 17 in King; August 18 and 19 in Chippewa Falls or Eau Claire; October 20 and 21 in Platteville or Prairie du Chien; and 10 December 8 and 9 in Union Grove. Mr. Moran is a strong advocate for having the October meeting in Prairie du Chien or LaCrosse. The motion carried on a voice vote. 26. Adjournment MOTION #11: It was moved by Mr. Moran, seconded by Mr. Boetcher and carried on a voice vote to adjourn the meeting; the time was 12:55 p.m. Dan Naylor Chair 11 Wisconsin Board of Veterans Affairs Veteran Lifetime Achievement Award Proclamation WHEREAS, Chester A. Caine was born January 8, 1930 in Lowell, WI and was raised in rural Lowell. He was drafted and entered the United States Army on May 15, 1951 in Milwaukee, WI; and he took basic training and advanced Infantry training at Fort Leonard Wood, MO; and WHEREAS, he completed combat engineer and leadership courses, taught small arms fire distribution, prepared demolitions for Infiltration Course training and was promoted to Corporal at Fort Leonard Wood. In early spring of 1952, he shipped-out to Korea with 6,000 other military members aboard the USS General Brewster. He arrived at Inchon, Korea during Easter in April 1952; and WHEREAS, he was assigned as an Infantryman to Company B, 1st Battalion, 160th Infantry Regiment, 40th Infantry Division in Komwa Valley, a part of the Iron Triangle. After a couple of months on-line as an Infantryman, he was reassigned to Headquarters Company as a Parts Specialist, Truck Driver, and Disabled Vehicle Retriever and he routinely made vehicle recoveries from unsecured areas of the battlefield, including Heartbreak Ridge. He received ten months combat pay during his twelve month tour of duty and in April 1953 he was shipped home with 6,000 others, including a large contingent of Canadian Military. He was discharged from active duty on May 1, 1953 at Camp Carson, CO with the rank of Corporal (Technical), and returned to Wisconsin as an Army Reservist, receiving his final discharge on October 16, 1956. His military decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, the Korean Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, the Combat Infantry Badge, the Syngman Rhee Meritorious Unit Citation, and he is authorized to wear two Overseas Bars; and WHEREAS, after the war, he bought a new truck with his combat pay savings and continued Caine Transfer, the trucking business he started at age seventeen. He subsequently opened Caine Petroleum & Equipment and Reeseville Agri Center, acquired the Reeseville Canning Company, and started Caine Warehousing. His enterprises currently employ over one hundred people and have a continuing positive impact on the economy of Dodge County; and he continues to be an active driver with Caine Transfer; and WHEREAS, he is a Life Member of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars, a member of the Combat Infantryman’s Association, and a member of the Disabled American Veterans Association. As a member of Lowell VFW Post 9392 he played a prominent role in acquiring the Post Headquarters building and, also, in the establishment of its military museum by purchasing, restoring, and donating twelve military vehicles from World War II through the current era, which are used in local parades and to promote veterans events. He also serves the VFW Post as its Drill Squad and Funeral Honors Team Commander, participating in four to five parades and twenty funerals annually. He is President of the 160th Military Regiment Association and serves on the Leadership Council of the 40th Infantry Division Association of Korean War veterans, participates annually in the 40th Infantry Division Reunion, and attended the dedication of the Korean War Memorial in Washington, D.C. and the 40th Division Memorial at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. He is the current Chair and twenty-two year member of the Dodge County Veterans Service Commission; and WHEREAS, he has served as a member of the Lowell Village Board for 47 years and donates his Board pay to the Fire Department. He is a 24-year member of the Dodge County Board of Supervisors, currently serving as Vice Chair of the County Highway Committee. He is the past President of the Lowell/Reeseville First Responders and a past member of the Lowell Fire Department. He is a Life Member of the National Rifle Association; and WHEREAS, he is a member of the Holy Family Catholic Church and a Life Member of the Knights of Columbus. He and his wife, Barbara, have six sons, one daughter, and twenty-four grandchildren. He and Barbara reside in the same home they purchased early in their marriage fifty-seven years ago. NOW, THEREFORE, I, Daniel J. Naylor, Chair of the Wisconsin Board of Veterans Affairs, proclaim CHESTER A. CAINE the recipient of the Wisconsin Board of Veterans Affairs Veteran Lifetime Achievement Award on this 10th day of December 2010. ______________________________________ DANIEL J. NAYLOR Board Chair 12