WEXFORD COUNTY — The entire staff of the Wexford County Department of Veterans Services resigned last week, prompting a temporary office closure that county officials and local advocates say is complicating access to help for veterans.
Director Christopher Emmons and Veteran Service Officer Eric Sturgeon announced their departures Oct. 23.
Emmons elaborated the same day on the situation in a statement posted to the department’s Facebook page.
“Ongoing challenges and differences in professional conduct and approach with a contracted services counselor have created an environment that no longer allows me to serve effectively in my role.”
Wexford County Administrator Joe Porterfield told 9&10 that disagreements between the contract provider and service officers had been under discussion.
“I think that the differences between the contract provider and the service officers have taken some time. I thought we all thought that we had this. We had a plan to move forward. If you look at the minutes from the September Veterans Service Committee meeting, they’re posted on our website. You will see that we thought this was taken care of. Then, when the grant changed, it created a bigger issue.”
The county is working to fill the positions and is seeking interim contract help. In the meantime, the Veterans Services Office is closed.
Tony Rubio, a veteran, said immediate needs are growing as colder weather sets in.
“Veterans are going to be needing wood, food and fuel oil to supply their homes. Access to health care, rides to clinics, rides to hospitals and doctor’s appointments. Now they don’t know how to get to these services.”
Some assistance remains available. A veteran’s service officer from the American Legion is on site every Monday, and the county administrator is assisting in emergencies
The county will hold a public discussion at 10 a.m. Wednesday in the council room at the Lake Street building on two items: Staff Vacancies and Deliberation Regarding Program Continuation with Millage Funding.
Steve Birdwell, the Vets Serving Vets Food Director, urged participation.
“We need all the support we can. We need to get this handled and handled quickly because the next service officer will not be accredited until at least May or June. And that’s if they hired him tomorrow.”
