Board Minutes August 2007

WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
WDVA Briefing of August 16, 2007

Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Board Members Present WDVA Staff Members Present
Peter Moran Bill Kloster, Acting Secretary
Marv Freedman Anthony Hardie, Executive Assistant
Rodney C. Moen Bill Crowley, Commandant, King
Jackie Guthrie Jimmy Stewart, Chief Legal Counsel
William Andersen Ken Abrahamsen, Budget Director
Walter Stenavich Mike Diaz, Division of Veterans Homes
Pat Shaughnessy, Deputy Commandant, UG
Legislative & Program Review Members Present Gary Wistrom, Acting Commandant, WVH-UG
Marv Freedman Ken Black, Division of Veterans Benefits
Vera Roddy Seth Perelman, Division of Administration
Steve Lawrence Nate Nez, Regional Coordinator
Duane Miskulin Dennis Bohen, Division of Claims
Jim Young Julie Van Metre, Executive Staff Assistant
Tim Thiers
Mike Furgal Council on Veterans Programs Present
Scott Berger Russ Alsteen, NCUSA
Don Heiliger Paul Bialk, MCL
Bud Mautz Cleon Brown, USSVWWII
Paul Weprinsky Rick Cherone, MOPH
Jesse Haro, CWV
Long Term Care Committee Members Present Paul Fine, ANU
Rod Moen Bud Mautz, AL
Jackie Guthrie Jon LiDonne, CVSO
Lewis Harned John Margowski, VVA
Rick Scollon Walter Peterson, Am ExPOWs
Jerry Polus Vera Roddy, UWV
Dr. Charles Allen William Sims, NABV
Christine Jordan Jerry Rabetski, PLAV
Ken Wendt Clif Sorenson, WACVO
Clarence Stoel, DAV
Financial Committee Members Present Tim Thiers, AMVETS
Bill Andersen Paul Weprinsky, JWV
Walter Stenavich
Al Richards Others Present
Mike Demske Holly Hoppe, Oconto CVSO
Jim Gausmann Yvonne Duesterhoeft, Jefferson CVSO
Joe Campbell David Kurtz, WI American Legion
Al Kochenderfer Kathy Gausmann, Monroe CVSO
Robert A. Cocroft, CVI, Inc.
CVSO Advisory Council Carter J. Doering
Mark Grams, Dodge CVSO Naomi Horwitz, WAC Veterans
Ted Mynyk, Iowa CVSO Donna Chrzas, Columbia CVSO
Michael Jackson, Dane CVSO Lois O’Keefe, Congresswoman Moore’s Assistant
Nick Benzinger, Shawano CVSO Jim Endres
Robert Stone, Rusk CVSO Jim Duff, Milwaukee CVSO
Fred Kaiser, Waushara CVSO
The briefing session by WDVA staff for Board, Council and Committee members
commenced at 12:30 pm. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
1. Certification of Notice of Meeting and Roll Call

It was certified that the meeting was properly noticed.
Roll call of Board members: 6 members present for a quorum.
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Roll call of CVSO Advisory Council members: 6 members present for a quorum.
Roll call of Legislative and Program Review Committee members: 11 members present for
a quorum.
Roll call of Long-Term Care Committee members: 8 members present for a quorum.
Roll call of Financial Committee members: 7 members present for a quorum.
Roll call of Council on Veterans Programs members: 17 members present for a quorum.
Chairman Moran called upon Joe Campbell who introduced Mr. Carter Doering of
Brookfield, a veteran responsible for getting the City of Brookfield to fly the POW flag 24-7
and for bringing the Vietnam Memorial Wall to Brookfield. Acting Secretary Kloster
recognized Milwaukee County Acting CVSO, Jim Duff; Robert A. Cocroft, Center for
Veterans Issues; Dennis Bohen, Bureau Director of the Claims Office in Milwaukee; and
Jimmy Stewart, WDVA Chief Legal Counsel.
2. Board Committee Appointment

Chairman Moran appointed Board member Jackie Guthrie as the Vice Chair of
the Long Term Care Committee.
3. Programs Report—Ken Black

Mr. Black reported on his Division programs:
• CVSO Bulletin Updates: #794 announced the new underemployed income limits
for the Retraining Grant; Bulletin #795 announced the new maximum home loan
amount of $400,000; Bulletin #797 announced the upcoming summer marketing
campaign for the three loan programs; and Bulletin #798 announced the
availability of the County Transportation Grant application.
• Cemetery expansion continues at the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial
Cemetery in Spooner with a completion date estimated by the end of September
2007. The Department continues to work with the State Cemetery Grants
Program for another large expansion at the Southern Cemetery in Union Grove.
Fifty percent of burials at the cemeteries in FY 2006 were cremation. The
Southern Cemetery in Union Grove is rated the seventh busiest state cemetery in
regard to burials and Wisconsin is rated number six regarding total burials.
• The Department coordinates honors from the central office and has a Military
Funeral Honors (MFH) team located at each of the state veterans cemeteries.
Training or refresher training, ammunition, M1 clips, funeral honors coin and
other services are all available by contacting the honors program at 1-877-944-
6667. The MFH stipend program still provides a stipend of either $25 or $50 to
those veterans organizations who provide or assist with honors. The TAPS
student voucher program still provides a $25 certificate for students towards their
tuition each time they sound TAPS at a veterans service.
• The Women’s Veterans Conference is scheduled for September 28-29 at Ft.
McCoy.
• The Department recently placed on its website, under State Veterans Benefits,
the webpage of “Medals and Records”.
• The newest homeless program for veterans located at the Northern Wisconsin
Center in Chippewa Falls is projected to open in the November timeframe. The
Center for Veterans Issues (CVI) took over the operational control of the veterans
assistance center at King on May 1, 2007. The homeless program at Union
Grove will relocate from Cottage 1 to Cottage 16 which will reduce operating
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costs for the 30 bed program and will also include the addition of eight rooms for
veterans under single room occupancy (SRO).
• For the spring semester, through July 31, the Department received 1,512
veterans education grant applications, approved 1,023, denied 210, and 279 are
still being worked.
• The Personal Loan Program (PLP) volume was $428,710 in June and $911,809
in July.
• Volume in the Home Improvement Loan Program (HILP) was at $128,300 in
June and $232,891 in July.
• The Home Loan Program volume was $6.8 million for June and $7.5 million for
July—up from $4.7 million in the month of May.
• The Veterans Trust Fund (VTF) delinquency rate was at 2.20% in June and
2.18% in July.
• Mr. Black is in the process of putting together a process action team for the
Assistance to Needy Veterans Grant Program.
Mr. Moen asked that of the 1,512 VetEd applications, how many were graduate
or undergraduate. It was noted that the program is for undergraduates only. Mr. Moen
asked for reasons why 210 were denied. Mr. Black said the major reason was pre
application.
Mr. Andersen asked if there is an increase in home loans because of the interest
rates. Mr. Black said yes, along with the Department’s aggressive marketing plan. Mr.
Black said if we continue to distribute the bonding funds at the current rate, we will be
out of money in the program by October. The Acting Secretary and the Office of Budget
and Planning have met with Capital Finance to work on plans to try to recycle or
refinance some of the current bonds and utilize the prepayments from those bonds.
4. Veterans Homes Report

Mr. Diaz said that the Division of Veterans Homes conducted a survey of its food
service operations during the week of July 9-13. The bid for the King Koach was
announced on July 19 by the Department of Administration with a due date of August
22nd. The operational study is progressing with bidders touring both homes on July 19th.
The federal appropriation for the State Home Construction Grant Program will be in the
range of $165-$250 million for federal fiscal year 2008. It is unlikely that funds will be
set aside for the Chippewa Falls Veterans Home project; however, if a similar amount is
appropriated in federal fiscal year 2009, the project may receive some funding.
Commandant Crowley reported that the King Home census was 707 at the end
of July. There are 42 vacancies and of that number, 18 vacancies are in the historic
cottage district. There are 71 pending applications in various stages of development.
The average time from receipt of application to date of admission is 63 days. The acuity
of care level remains high.
The Home Exchange operation had no significant changes to report. In the

months of June and July there were receipts of $42,519.14 with a net gain of $581.74.
There was a net gain in the past 12 months of $1,809.30. The Gifts and Bequests total
revenue since the last report amounts to $36,525.91 and expenditures from that fund
were $94,315.51 for a difference of ($57,789.60).
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Construction Projects at King: The water supply well production project (well #2)
is in the process of drilling. It is anticipated that well #2 will come on line in July 2008
and at that time the Home will discontinue its reliance on water from Rainbow Lake.
The resident ceiling lifts project is approaching the 35% point on the design. This will
allow for patient lifts for members in need of assistance and make it safer for the
caregiver. The grant application is on the VA’s priority list; however, the funds have not
yet been set aside. The Olson Hall domestic water piping replacement project is at the
35% point on the design. The grant application is on the VA’s priority list; the grant
would be approximately $975,000, however, funds are not currently set aside. Other
projects being considered are the replacement of the windows in Olson Hall and the
wandering resident monitoring system.
Major functions at the King Home: June 24, DAV King Day; July 4, Member
Council Independence Day Celebration; July 22, VFW King Day; August 11, the annual
Green Bay AMVETS King Bicycle Tour; August 12, American Legion King Day
(changed from their traditional Father’s Day visit).
Mr. Crowley said that a bill was passed in December and signed into law by the
President authorizing the federal VA to pay for the full cost of care for veterans who
have a 70% or greater service-connected disability rating and are residing in state
veterans’ homes. The federal VA is in the final stages of writing rules to cover per diem
payment for these severely service-connected disabled veterans to be able to reside in
state veterans homes and have their cost of care paid by the federal VA.
Ms. Hoppe asked about the special care unit and its high demand. Can that unit
be expanded if we go for federal funding at the VA level? Mr. Crowley said the
Alzheimer’s and special care unit are typically full with a waiting list for admission. That
is one of the things that will be addressed in the operations report and he will report
back in the not too distant future.
Acting Commandant Wistrom said that as of August 16, 2007 the Union Grove
campus census is 163. The skilled nursing facility has 58 members with 19 applicants
fully processed and waiting for admittance. Due to preparations for the upcoming room
conversion in Fairchild and Shemanske, the overall assisted living census has
decreased from 110 to 105. Union Grove continues to admit members into Gates Hall
and continues to accept new applications. The average length of time to process
applications for both the skilled nursing facility and assisted living is about 21 days from
the time a person first applies, but can be as short as 24 hours for hospital admissions.
The Union Grove Home currently has 191 employees with 81 positions yet to be
filled. When filled, 62%, or 168 of 272 total positions, will be direct care positions.
The Home is working with the Department of Workforce Development’s visually

impaired operators to contract out the deli and the bar. The deli will open later this
month and the pub should open sometime in the fall.
Bids are out for ten double rooms to be converted into 15 single rooms in
Fairchild and Shemanske Halls. All newly converted rooms, as well as the remaining
double rooms will be fitted with ADA compliant bathrooms and all the windows in both
buildings will be replaced. The construction could last nine to eighteen months. The
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replacement of hot water heaters, water softeners and air handling units is scheduled as
well and a new grant amount is being submitted to the federal VA.
The above-ground building connectors at Union Grove are classified as other

projects presently being considered by VA for funding in fiscal year 2008.
The annual Division of Quality Assurance survey for assisted living facilities was
completed: Gates—no citations; Shemanske—two minor deficiencies which have been
corrected, and Fairchild—awaiting final report but a verbal report indicates no citations.
The Home at Union Grove is fortunate to have two licensed administrators. Pat
Shaughnessy is the Deputy Commandant/Administrator. Pat has over 20 years
experience in healthcare, including nine years as a Nursing Home Administrator. Phil
Tremain is the Administrator of Health Services. Phil has 19 years experience as an
Administrator and nine years as a Director of Nursing.
5. Legislative Report
Mr. Hardie highlighted Assembly Bill 370 with regard to commercial driver license
testing for military license holders. There was a hearing on the bill this morning. The
Department testified on several bills that were before the Assembly Veterans
Committee. Assembly Bill 270, changing the members of the Council on Veterans
Programs passed the Assembly and had a hearing in the Senate Veterans Affairs
Committee.
The majority of the Department’s budget was passed by Joint Finance and was
not controversial among the Senate and Assembly. Mr. Hardie took some time to
discuss the variables of the budget as passed by the Joint Committee on Finance, the
Assembly and the Senate. Seven veteran related items have yet to be determined by
the budget conference committee:
1. The Wisconsin GI Bill tuition remission

2. The Korean War Memorial refurbishment of $165,000 general purpose revenue
3. The feasibility study for a state veterans cemetery in the Fox Valley
4. Burial of non resident service members that would allow for service members
killed in action regardless of their residence to be buried in the state’s veterans
cemetery
5. Gold Star License plate expanded eligibility
6. The Council on Veterans Programs membership (which is also a separate bill)
7. Nursing home rates and bed assessment increases
As clarification relating to the Wisconsin GI Bill, Mr. Hardie explained that it is a

tuition remission. The veteran receives an upfront tuition waiver, a remission as it is
called. There is no reimbursement to the veteran. The reimbursement is from the
Higher Education Aids Board to the University of Wisconsin System and the Wisconsin
Technical College System for costs that they would incur. Mr. Jackson felt that it is
important for us to tell people that this is not a lifetime benefit because it’s limited by the
number of credits taken. If one does four straight years, 128 credits, he or she is done.
Mr. Hardie reiterated that the Conference Committee has not come to an
agreement on the budget nor does it have a final version of the budget. To this point
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the Committee has only agreed on 571 items which did include the essence of most of
WDVA’s budget items except for the seven items listed above.
Upcoming events: The Badger Salute on September 1st; Veterans Benefits

Information Fair at Ft. McCoy on September 7th; the Military Order of the Purple Heart
Day at King is on September 9th; a stand down by Project Reach Out on September
15th; AMVETS Day at King on September 15-16; National POW-MIA Recognition Day is
on September 21st; a stand down in Milwaukee on September 22nd; WDVA’s first
Women Veterans Conference is at Ft. McCoy on September 29th; the CVSO Fall
Conference in Madison on September 24-28; the National Guard Retiree Day at Ft.
McCoy on October 6th; and a Supermarket of Veterans Benefits coming up at the Ho-
Chunk Casino in Baraboo on October 23rd and the final Supermarket will be in
Waukesha on November 5-7. The Department had a successful Purple Heart
Recognition Day at the State Capitol.
Mr. Thiers presented a State Legislative Advocacy Award plaque to Anthony

Hardie from the AMVETS Department of Wisconsin for his work on the budget to make
sure Wisconsin veterans have the most outstanding benefits in the country.
Ms. Guthrie asked if there has been any discussion about utilizing federal GI
benefits. If you are going to school and it is already completely paid for by your federal
benefits, do you still get to tap into the state benefits. Can you get tuition remission and
then collect your Federal GI Bill for living expenses? Mr. Hardie said that the Wisconsin
GI Bill was never intended to mirror the Federal GI Bill; it was intended to help pay for
the full cost of education. The Wisconsin GI Bill currently waives the full cost of tuition
and fees at UW or Vocational Technical Colleges. If the veteran is still eligible for
Federal GI Bill benefits, that allows them to be able to pay for their living expenses and
for their books.
6. Financial Report
Mr. Abrahamsen reported that operating revenues for the King Home have
exceeded expenses resulting in an operating income of $1.7 million for the fiscal year.
As compared to fiscal year 2006, operating revenues were $18.2 million less, which
includes a $19.8 million decrease in Medical Assistance revenue and $1.4 million
increase in Medicare Part D revenue. Operating expenses were $4.4 million more
which is primarily due to increased personnel costs. Almost all of the decrease in
Medical Assistance payments is due to the fact that the King Home received $20.3
million in retro payments in fiscal year 2006 and only $541,100 in fiscal year 2007.
The $6.9 million “transferred out” includes two significant transfers that have
previously been discussed with the Board. First at the June 2007 Board meeting the
Board of Veterans Affairs approved the transfer of up to $1.2 million from Institutional
Operations to the Veterans Trust Fund. The actual amount transferred was
$1,131,149.51. The Department had estimated that it expected to transfer up to $6.4
million of funds from the King Home to the Union Grove Home at the close of the 2007
fiscal year. The actual amount of that transfer was $5,777,842.59. As a result of the
transfer, fund equity for the King Home decreased by $4.9 million to $47.5 million. The
June 30, 2007 cash balance was $17,747,387, an increase of $2.5 million over the
fiscal year 2006 balance.
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Operating expenses for Union Grove totaled $12.5 million; an increase of $5.4
million over 2006 expenses and preliminary 2007 operating revenues totaled $6.3
million, an increase of $2.9 million over 2006. The preliminary net operating loss for
fiscal year 2007 was $6.2 million.
Total revenue of $5.7 million was transferred in from the King Home to offset
negative appropriation balances, as calculated on a statutory basis. The decrease to
Fund Equity after transfers was $679,234 for an ending balance of $21,644,430. The
preliminary year-end cash balance for the Union Grove Home, after transfers was
($194,076).
Assets in the Veterans Trust Fund (VTF) were $71.3 million as of June 30, 2007,
which is $6.5 million less than the balance as of June 30, 2006. The preliminary fiscal
year 2007 net loss before transfers was $7.89 million, which is $1.1 million less than the
$9 million loss for fiscal year 2006. Decreases in aids to individuals and organizations
of $900,000 and increases in investment earnings of $300,000 contributed to the
improved results. “Transfers in” totaling $1,320,974 included $1,131,149.51 transferred
from the King Home’s institutional operations pursuant to 2005 WI Act 468. The net
decrease to Fund Equity after transfers for 2007 was $6.6 million--$2.4 million less than
in fiscal year 2006. Cash uses exceeded cash receipts by $1.8 million for the fiscal year
resulting in a preliminary year-end cash balance of $27,231,649 which is about $3.5
million higher than the latest Veterans Trust Fund cash flow projections presented to the
Board in June.
Assets in the Mortgage Loan Repayment Fund (MLRF) totaled $411.8 million at
fiscal year end, which is a decrease of $6.5 million since June 30, 2006. Fund equity
decreased $2,266,331 as the result of a net operating loss of $7.9 million that was
offset, in part, by non-operating income of $5.6 million. The net loss was $2.4 million
less than the fiscal year 2006 loss for the fund. The cash balance in the MLRF was
$123,073,745 as of June 30, 2007, an $18.8 million increase over the fiscal year 2006
ending balance. The increase is due primarily to loan prepayments on hand. An $8
million special redemption, or prepayment call, of taxable bonds is now scheduled for
October 1.
The Veterans Trust Fund loan portfolio delinquency rate for July was 2.18%
overall, and 2.21% for the Personal Loan Program. The Primary Mortgage Loan
delinquency rate for June was 0.79%. Forty-five Primary Mortgage Loan applications
were received in July.
7. Recess/Adjournment
It was moved by Mr. Stenavich, seconded by Mr. Freedman and carried on a
voice vote that the Board Adjourn until 9:30 a.m. on August 17.
It was moved by Mr. Jackson, seconded by Mr. Stone and carried on a voice
vote that the CVSO Advisory Council stand in recess.
It was moved by Ms. Roddy, seconded by Mr. Heiliger and carried on a voice
vote that the Legislative and Program Review Committee stand in recess.
It was moved by Mr. Wendt, seconded by Mr. Walker and carried on a voice vote
that the Long Term Care Committee stand in recess.
It was moved by Mr. Gausmann, seconded by Mr. Richards and carried on a
voice vote that the Financial Committee stand in recess.
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It was moved, seconded and carried on a voice vote that the Council on Veterans
Programs adjourn until 8:00 a.m. on August 17.
The time was 2:00 p.m.
8
MINUTES
CVSO ADVISORY COUNCIL
August 16, 2007
Members Present Others Present

Nick Benzinger, Shawano Russ Alsteen, NCUSA
Mark Grams, Dodge Scott Berger, Marathon CVSO
Michael Jackson, Dane Cleon “Pat” Brown, USSVWWII
Fred Kaiser, Waushara Joe Campbell
Ted Mynyk, Iowa Rick Cherone, MOPH
Robert Stone, Rusk Donna Chrzas, Columbia CVSO
Mike Demske, VVA President
Members Excused Carter Doering
Andrew Clark, Outagamie Yvonne Duesterhoeft, Jefferson CVSO
John Solis, Rock Paul Fine, ANU
Mike Haley, Chippewa Marvin Freedman, Board Vice Chair
Mike Furgal
WDVA Present Jim Gausmann, LaCrosse CVSO
Bill Kloster, Acting Secretary Kathy Gausmann, Monroe CVSO
Anthony Hardie, Executive Assistant Jackie Guthrie, Board Member
Jimmy Stewart, Chief Legal Counsel Lewis Harned
Bill Crowley, Commandant, WVH-K Jesse Haro, CWV
Gary Wistrom, Acting Commandant, WVHUG Don Heiliger
Pat Shaughnessy, Deputy Commandant, UG Holly Hoppe, Oconto CVSO
Mike Diaz, Division Administrator Naomi Horwitz, WAC
Ken Abrahamsen, Budget Director Chris Jordan, Walworth CVSO
Donna Warzynski, Nursing Administrator Steve Lawrence, VFW Adjutant
Ken Black, Division of Veterans Benefits Jon LiDonne, Waupaca CVSO
Seth Perelman, Division of Administration John Margowski, Waukesha CVSO
Nate Nez, Regional Coordinator Bud Mautz, American Legion
Dennis Bohen, Claims Division Mary Meyer
Julie Van Metre, Executive Staff Assistant Duane Miskulin
Rod Moen, Board Member
Pete Moran, Board Chair
Lois O’Keefe, Cong. Moore’s Office
Walt Peterson, Am. Ex-POWs
Jerry Polus, Brown CVSO
Jerry Rabetski, PLAV
Al Richards
Very Roddy, UWV
Rick Scollon
Clif Sorenson, WACVO, Eau Claire CVSO
Walt Stenavich, Board Member
Clarence Stoel, DAV
Tim Thiers, AMVETS
Alan Walker
Ken Wendt
Paul Weprinsky, JWV
Jim Young, Vernon CVSO
1. Call to Order and Roll Call
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The meeting of the CVSO Advisory Council was called to order at 2:10 p.m. A quorum
was present.
2. Certification of Notice of Meeting

So noted.
3. Approval of Minutes of June 14, 2007

It was moved by Mr. Jackson, seconded by Mr. Kaiser and carried on a voice vote to
approve the minutes of the June 14 CVSO Advisory Council meeting.
Mr. Jackson offered the following corrections to the previously approved CVSO
Advisory Council minutes of April 19, 2007:
• Jim Young, Vernon CVSO, was no longer a member of the CVSO Advisory
Council in April.
• The special election portion should read--Mr. Stone nominated Mr. Solis for
Chair and the nomination was seconded by Mr. Grams.
• On page 2, second paragraph, “Mr. Jackson said that the issue is a matter of trust
and that WDVA currently receives forms that may have been altered.” The
essence of Mr. Jackson’s message was that if in fact WDVA receives forms that
are altered, it probably is a matter of trust and WDVA should contact those people
who sent in the forms. Mr. Jackson said he has no way of knowing what WDVA
receives.
It was moved by Mr. Stone, seconded by Mr. Benzinger and carried on a voice vote to amend
the previously approved April 19th CVSO Advisory Council minutes as noted above.
4. Announcements and Introductions

Lois O’Keefe from Congresswoman Gwen Moore’s office was introduced. Ms. O’Keefe
reported that the Congresswoman is very actively involved in monitoring concerns,
complaints and issues arising within the veterans community. A number of service members
currently coming out of the military have been discharged for personality disorders. There is
legislation working its way through the Veterans Affairs Committees in both the House and
the Senate and Congresswoman Moore has offered an amendment which would, at a
minimum, stop these personality disorder discharges and secondly, order a review of all
current personality disorder discharges.
5. WDVA Form 2045 Update--Verification of Illness or Disability

Ken Black said he met with Michael Jackson and John Solis and several members of the
WDVA staff to discuss Form 2045. The Form is the medical evidence required for the ANV
veterans grant health care aid portion. The form comes to WDVA directly from the
physician and the CVSO community wants the form to go directly to them. It was
determined that immediately upon receipt by WDVA, Form 2045 would be faxed to the
CVSO. Mr. Mynyk said that would allow CVSOs to have a complete package for their files.
6. VetEd Process Action team Update

Acting Secretary Kloster said he received the Process Action Team report. Both the
Legislative and Program Review Committee and the Board of Veterans Affairs will discuss
the VetEd grant and a statement of scope on the pre application for the VetEd grant. The
intent is to amend the code by changing the date when pre applications are due so that
veterans are no longer penalized for not filing a pre application. This eliminates a reason for
denial but it does not go to the root of the problem which is the inability of the Department,
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CVSOs, schools, everyone involved in this process to communicate with veterans so that
they understand what the requirements are and once informed of these requirements to follow
through.
Mr. Jackson said that the CVSO Association position is that pre applications should be
eliminated. Mr. Kloster said that is the ultimate goal. The requirement for the pre
application is legislative and we would have to go forward with legislation to have it
removed from the statutes. WDVA has the ability to meet the goal through the
administrative code and that is the way we will proceed.
7. Discussion on Ken Black Letter of July 24 Regarding Assistance to Needy Veterans Grant
There was a letter sent out to all CVSO Advisory Council members addressing the
percentages as well as the code associated with the calculation of the subsistence piece. The
two issues were (1) income earned but paid after the disabling situation to apply for the ANV
grant, and (2) the specific reason for denials of ANV grants.
Mr. Black noted that he has been directed by Acting Secretary Kloster to convene an
Assistance to Needy Veterans (ANV) Grant process action team to relook the program and
determine what is needed to make it more user friendly. Mr. Mynyk recommended selecting
CVSOs from high activity counties that have seen many applications and denials to serve on
the process action team. Mr. Jackson asked that the leadership of the CVSO Association be
consulted when selecting CVSOs to serve on the process action team.
8. Assistance to Needy Veterans Grant Requirements

Mr. Kloster said that CVSOs brought up several requirements that need to be met in
order to get this grant. The following requirements were listed, along with Mr. Kloster’s
comments:
1) Requirement for the veterans to go to the VA in Madison for glasses. Response: That is
only a requirement for those veterans who reside in the catchment area of the VA
Hospital in Madison because we have a special sharing agreement with that hospital.
2) Requirement to apply for VA health care even if not service connected and therefore not
eligible for eyeglasses, hearing aid, dental from the veterans health administration.
Response: Understand that the veteran cannot be denied if they don’t apply.
3) Requirement to apply for Medical Assistance. Response: Refer to the statutes under
45.40(1)(a)—no payment may be made under this sub-section if the veteran has other
assets or income available to meet basic assistance needs or if the veteran is eligible to
receive aid from other sources to meet those needs.
4) Requirement to apply for assistance from the County Veterans Service Commission.
Response: The same as covered under Medical Assistance.
5) Limitations of care because of cost; for example, getting teeth pulled but waiting 12
months to get dentures. Response: That particular problem was addressed by the
Department in our budget where we took the cap off the dentures.
6) Requirement to apply for food stamps. Response: That requirement is under the
subsistence portion of the grant--other aid that is available to the individual. Mr. Grams
asked if there is a time limit from the time they have to apply for the food stamps from
when they become disabled. Mr. Stewart said the shortest grant that the Department
makes is 30 days and the Department has adopted policy-wise a 30 day period to make
that application.
7) Requirement of verification of injury to be signed by a licensed physician. Response:
Any denial could end up in County Circuit Court and because of that we require a
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physicians signature because that is the only thing that will hold up in the court system;
reference Chapter VA 2.01(1)(o).
8) Requirement for the Form 2045 to be sent to WDVA and not the CVSO and income
earned but not received by time of application. Response: Addressed in previous agenda
item.
9) Requirement for veteran to obtain an exam from the VA hospital. Response: If you
cannot get a hospital appointment within a very short period of time that is waived.
Mr. Grams asked if it would be possible to reflect the discussion on point number two
because it may take a while for the PAT to complete its study. Mr. Kloster will ask for a
Bulletin to be distributed to reflect that it is not a requirement to apply for VA health care in
order to receive the grant.
9. Accreditation of Service Officers through the National County Veterans Service Officer
Association
Mr. Perelman said that the Department agreed with the CVSOs and published a
procedure that would implement the decision that if people get National CVSO Association
training, then they will be accredited to WDVA.
10. What are CVSOs Doing to Provide Service to Transitioning Soldiers—John Solis
Mr. Mynyk said that all the CVSOs he polled at his southwest regional meeting do spend
time with these transitioning soldiers. Mr. Gausmann, Mr. Grams and Mr. Stone added
comments regarding the agenda item. Mr. Jackson suggested deferring the report by Mr.
Solis until he is able to attend the CVSO Advisory Council meeting. Mr. Jackson provided a
copy of the Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs “Fast Letter
07-09” with the subject matter: Claims Filed by Service Members Prior to Discharge.
Questions about the fast letter should be submitted to the
VAVBAWAS/CO/PREDISCHARGE mailbox.
Mr. Mynyk read the following results of a poll done by Mr. Solis: “We assist military
personnel in transition, normally on terminal leave, with information, completion of
applications for benefits, referrals, etc. and explain the VA process and how it will only go so
far until the certified copy of the discharge is provided. We do not refuse to assist personnel
who transition because they don’t have a discharge.”
11. Secretary’s Matters

Mr. Kloster asked for advice back from the Advisory Council in regards to the Home
Improvement Loan (HILP). The HILP has a great interest rate, it is a very good program,
and he does not understand why it is not being utilized more. He asked for suggestions on
things that WDVA may be able to work on to make the HILP a more viable program.
Mr. Kloster said the Administrative Rule regarding the CVSO classes of counties that
listed the outdated pay ranges was made official and distributed by the Division of
Administration. That change is now in effect.
The Acting Secretary said that the US Department of Veterans Affairs published a
suicide prevention hotline letter and that letter with information about the hotline was
provided to the Councils and Committees. Everyone in the veterans community should
publish that information through its various publications. Ms. Hoppe asked for a Bulletin on
4
the suicide prevention hotline. Mr. Kloster said the information will be on the front page of
the Department’s publication, “Forward Veterans.”
12. Public Input

None.
13. Council Members’ Matters (Not Subject to Adoption)

Mr. Jackson said that the Dane County Board of Supervisors will be voting on Resolution
79-07-08 regarding, Opposing Cuts to the Wisconsin GI Bill.
Mr. Grams had a question on WDVA Form 2030--Request for Certification for
Wisconsin G.I. Bill Benefits and Residency for Tuition Purposes. Why is it necessary to ask
for a Social Security Number? Mr. Perelman said that was included through a request of the
two school systems. Mr. Perelman will investigate that issue and get back to Mr. Grams.
14. Election of Officers

Mr. Stone nominated John Solis for Chairman. Mr. Benzinger seconded the nomination.
Mr. Mynyk asked for any other nominations for the position of Chairman. Mr. Mynyk
announced that there was a motion and a second to close the nominations and cast a
unanimous ballot for John Solis as the CVSO Advisory Council Chair. The motion carried.
Mr. Jackson nominated Mark Grams for Vice Chairman. Mr. Stone seconded the
nomination. Mr. Mynyk asked for any other nominations. It was moved by Mr. Jackson and
seconded by Mr. Kaiser that the nominations be closed and that a unanimous vote be cast for
Mark Grams for Vice Chairman. The motion carried.
15. Next Meeting Schedule

The next meeting will be held in conjunction with the CVSO State Conference. The date
for the Advisory Council meeting will be September 27, 2007 at the Clarion Suites in
Madison.
16. Adjournment
It was moved by Mr. Grams, seconded by Mr. Benzinger and carried on a voice vote to
adjourn the CVSO Advisory Council meeting, the time was 3:20 p.m.
Ted Mynyk
Vice Chairman
5
MINUTES
LEGISLATIVE AND PROGRAM REVIEW COMMITTEE
Meeting of August 16, 2007
Committee Present Others Present

Marvin Freedman Dr. Charles Allen
Scott Berger Russ Alsteen, NCUSA
Mike Furgal Bill Andersen, Board Member
Don Heiliger Paul Bialk, MCL
Steve Lawrence Cleon “Pat” Brown, USSVWWII
Bud Mautz Joe Campbell
Duane Miskulin Rick Cherone, MOPH
Vera Roddy Donna Chrzas, Columbia CVSO
Tim Thiers Mike Demske, VVA President
Paul Weprinsky Carter Doering
Jim Young Yvonne Duesterhoeft, Jefferson CVSO
Paul Fine, ANU
WDVA Present Jim Gausmann, LaCrosse CVSO
William Kloster, Acting Secretary Kathy Gausmann, Monroe CVSO
Anthony Hardie, Executive Assistant Mark Grams, Dodge CVSO
Jimmy Stewart, Chief Legal Counsel Jackie Guthrie, Board Member
Bill Crowley, Commandant, WVH-K Lewis Harned
Gary Wistrom, Acting Commandant, WVH-UG Jesse Haro, CWV
Mike Diaz, Division Administrator Naomi Horwitz, WAC
Ken Abrahamsen, Budget Director Michael Jackson, Dane CVSO
Ken Black, Division Administrator Christine Jordan, Walworth CVSO
Seth Perelman, Division Administrator Fred Kaiser, Waushara CVSO
Nate Nez, Regional Coordinator Kevin Kavanaugh
Dennis Bohen, Claims Division Jon LiDonne, Waupaca CVSO
Donna Warzynski, Nursing Administrator, WVH-K John Margowski, Waukesha CVSO
Julie Van Metre, Executive Staff Assistant Mary Meyer
Rod Moen, Board Member
Pete Moran, Board Chairman
Ted Mynyk, Iowa CVSO
Walter Peterson, Am. Ex-POW
Jerry Polus, Brown CVSO
Al Richards
Rick Scollon
Clif Sorenson, WACVO, Eau Claire CVSO
Walter Stenavich, Board Member
Clarence Stoel, DAV
Robert Stone, Rusk CVSO
Alan Walker
Ken Wendt
1
The meeting of the Legislative and Program Review Committee was called to order at
3:25 p.m.; a quorum was present.

It was noted that proper notice of the meeting occurred.
3. Approval of Minutes
It was moved by Mr. Heiliger, seconded by Mr. Miskulin and carried on a voice vote to
approve the minutes of the June 14, 2007 meeting.
Board Chairman Moran took this opportunity to present a plaque to Don Heiliger
commending him for his term as a member of the Board of Veterans Affairs.
4. Discussion and Action on the Pre-Application Requirement Process Action Team Report and
CVSO Resolution F002-06 Veterans Education Grant Pre-Enrollment Requirement
Mr. Freedman noted that the number of the CVSO Resolution should be F001-06. It was
moved by Mr. Thiers, seconded and carried on a voice vote that the Committee endorse the
CVSO Resolution F001-06 Veterans Education Grant Pre-Enrollment Requirement and refer
it to the Board.
5. Proposed Administrative Rule Change Regarding the VetEd Pre-Application

Mr. Stewart explained that the Statement of Scope is the first step in developing
Administrative Rule. The Statement of Scope merely identifies that the Department is
considering making an amendment to a particular Administrative Code provision—VA
2.02(3)(b). After publication in the Wisconsin Administrative Register, the Department
could move forward with this rule within ten days. At that point Mr. Stewart would look at
the viable options to pursue promulgation of an emergency rule.
It was moved by Mr. Mautz, seconded by Mr. Heiliger and carried on a voice vote to
recommend to the Board of Veterans Affairs that the Department be authorized to proceed
with the rule making process consistent with the Statement of Scope.
6. Action on DAV Resolutions 2007-02 Tax Exemptions for Goods and Services; 2007-04
Divorce and Compensation; 2007-05 Disabled Veterans Reduced Fees; 2007-07 State
Lottery Scratch Off Ticket “GI Dough”, and 2007-09 Wisconsin Veterans and Surviving
Spouse Property Tax Credit
It was moved by Mr. Lawrence, seconded by Mr. Weprinsky and carried on a voice vote
to receive and file DAV Resolution 2007-02—Tax Exemptions for Goods and Services.
It was moved by Mr. Berger, seconded by Mr. Furgal and carried on a voice vote to
receive and file DAV Resolution 2007-04—Divorce and Compensation.
It was moved by Mr. Weprinsky, seconded by Mr. Lawrence and carried on a voice vote
to receive and file DAV Resolution 2007-05—Disabled Veterans Reduced Fees.
2
It was moved by Mr. Mautz, seconded by Mr. Heiliger and carried on a voice vote to
receive and file DAV Resolution 2007-07—State Lottery Scratch Off Ticket “GI Dough”.
It was moved by Mr. Lawrence, seconded by Mr. Mautz and carried on a voice vote to
receive and file DAV Resolution 2007-09—Wisconsin Veterans and Surviving Spouse
Property Tax Credit.
7. Discussion and Action on the 2007-2009 State Budget

This item was placed on the agenda by Mr. Freedman in the event there was activity by
the Budget Conference Committee. No action has yet been taken by the Conference
Committee.
8. Discussion and Action on the Need for Additional USDVA Vet Centers in Wisconsin
Mr. Freedman said that this is an issue that has come up in meetings with the
Department’s Advisory Panel on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Wisconsin has
two Vet Centers, one in Madison and one in Milwaukee. The Central part of Wisconsin is
not well served as far as proximity to a Vet Center. Four is the average number of Vet
Centers for a state the approximate size and veteran population of Wisconsin. Mr. Freedman
asked that Committee members give some thought to the statistics provided to them and be
ready to discuss this issue in a more informed manner at the October meeting of the
Legislative and Program Review Committee. He would also like to discuss the possibility of
what would happen if a Vet Center was placed in Brown County and another in the
LaCrosse, Eau Claire area.
9. Discussion and Action on the Alleged Misuse of Personality Disorder Discharges by the U.S.
Department of Defense
Mr. Freedman said that they heard earlier from Congresswoman Moore’s aide that there
are legislative initiatives being introduced to deal with the issue of personality disorder
discharges by the U.S. Department of Defense. There was a letter written by a bi-partisan
group of 31 members of the U.S. Senate calling upon the Secretary of Defense to have an
independent investigation conducted regarding the use of personality disorder discharges.
Defense Department records indicate that over 22,500 personality disorder discharges have
been processed within the past six years. Being discharged on that basis has precluded most
of these veterans from being able to avail themselves of either DOD or VA medical care or
compensation.
Mr. Freedman will put this issue back on the agenda for the October meeting now that we
know there is legislation pending.
10. Discussion of Proposed State of Illinois Traumatic Brain Injury Testing Program for
Veterans
Mr. Freedman said this agenda item is for informational purposes. It is to apprise
Committee members of the program that has been proposed in the State of Illinois by both
the Governor and the Secretary of the Illinois Department of Veterans affairs. A testing
program was created to determine whether or not Illinois veterans are suffering from
traumatic brain injury as a result of their service in the military.
3
Mr. Kloster reported that the Museum Golf Fundraising Outing generated over $25,000
for Museum programs. The Museum was awarded a $3,000 grant from Dane County
Cultural Affairs for the Museum’s Forest Hills Cemetery tour in Madison. The Museum
completed its 7-7-7 Program, a noon lecture program by the archival staff. Programs have
been taped and are available to view on the WisconsinEye website. The Museum also
received a $3,700 donation from the Black Cat Club of the 13th Evacuation Hospital.
Mr. Kloster informed the veterans community that as set forth in the minutes of the 22
February 2006 Board meeting, once WDVA formally opens the new Northern Wisconsin
Center Veterans Assistance Program building, a ceremony will be conducted to rename that
building Klein Hall in honor of Bill Klein a former employee and friend of the Department.
12. Public Input

None.
13. Committee Members’ Matters (Not Subject to Adoption)

Mr. Berger said that the Northeast CVSO Association met with Congressman Kagen and
received a Congressional update. Secondly, Mr. Berger heard that planning for a
Supermarket of Veterans Benefits and Job Fair in Wausau was underway for early next year.
The Department said no plans are in the works for Supermarkets in 2008. Mr. Berger was
willing and eager to work in partnership with the Department on a Supermarket in his area if
that should be scheduled.
14. Next Meeting Date

October 18, 2007 in Platteville at the National Guard Armory.
15. Adjournment
It was moved by Mr. Thiers, seconded by Mr. Lawrence and carried on a voice vote to
adjourn the meeting; the time was 4:20 p.m.
Marvin Freedman
Chairman
4
MINUTES
LONG TERM CARE COMMITTEE

Rod Moen Russ Alsteen, NCUSA
Jackie Guthrie Bill Andersen, Board Member
Charles Allen Scott Berger, Marathon CVSO
Christine Jordan Paul Bialk, MCL
Kevin Kavanaugh Cleon “Pat” Brown, USSVWWII
Jerry Polus Joe Campbell
Rick Scollon Rick Cherone, MOPH
Lew Harned Donna Chrzas, Columbia CVSO
Mary Meyer Mike Demske, VVA President
Alan Walker Carter Doering
Ken Wendt Yvonne Duesterhoeft, Jefferson CVSO
Paul Fine, ANU
WDVA Present Marvin Freedman, Board Vice Chairman
William Kloster, Deputy Secretary Mike Furgal
Anthony Hardie, Executive Assistant Jim Gausmann, LaCrosse CVSO
Jimmy Stewart, Chief Legal Counsel Kathy Gausmann, Monroe CVSO
Bill Crowley, Commandant, WVH-K Mark Grams, Dodge CVSO
Gary Wistrom, Acting Commandant, UG Jesse Haro, CWV
Donna Warzynski, Nursing Administrator Naomi Horwitz, WAC
Mike Diaz, Division Administrator Michael Jackson, Dane CVSO
Ken Abrahamsen, Budget Director Al Kochenderfer
Ken Black, Division Administrator Steve Lawrence, VFW Adjutant
Seth Perelman, Division Administrator Jon LiDonne, Waupaca CVSO
Nate Nez, Regional Coordinator Bud Mautz, American Legion
Dennis Bohen, Claims Division Duane Miskulin
Julie Van Metre, Executive Staff Assistant Pete Moran, Board Chairman
Ted Mynyk, Iowa CVSO
Al Richards
Vera Roddy, UWV
Clif Sorenson, WACVO/Eau Claire CVSO
Walter Stenavich, Board Member
Clarence Stoel, DAV
Tim Thiers, AMVETS/Manitowoc CVSO
1
The meeting of the Long Term Care Committee was called to order at 4:25 p.m., a
quorum was present.

It was certified that proper notice of the meeting occurred.
Acting Secretary Kloster noted changes to comments made by Ms. Holtan and Mr. Moen
that are reflected on Page 2 in the second paragraph of Agenda Item 7 of the Long Term Care
Committee minutes. It was moved by Mr. Walker, seconded by Ms. Meyer and carried
unanimously on a voice vote to approve the corrected minutes of the June 14, 2007
Committee meetings.
4. Fire Safety at King

Mr. Kloster provided a memo that addressed questions submitted by Mr. Moen with
regard to a report listed on the Medicare website indicating several fire safety deficiencies at the
Wisconsin Veterans Home, King. All deficiencies listed in that website have been corrected.
Regarding citations indicating that documents were not provided for testing, it should be noted
that the problem was the location of the records at the time of the inspection. The records were
not gathered into one binder and available in the Fire Station. Staff at King has worked closely
with the surveyor to organize the records in one binder as requested and now the documents are
delivered to the Fire Station upon notification of inspection. With regard to citations indicating
the absence of smoke detectors, Code interpretation has changed requiring the placement of
additional smoke detectors in certain areas where they were not required before. The additional
detectors were installed by the staff.
5. King Home Staffing Ratios

Mr. Crowley provided background information to address the staffing at King. The
levels of care at King by building determine the staffing that is required by law. We meet the
minimum staffing requirements seven days a week. Seventy percent of the members at King
are at the SNF level or higher and 30% in the lower ICF levels. The cottages are considered
domiciliary, not skilled nursing care and are therefore not included in the report. Ms.
Warzynski, WVH-King Director of Nursing, said all skilled nursing facilities are required to
staff based on providing a minimum number of hours of care per person per day. The
intensive care level is 3.25 hours of care, skilled is 2.5 hours and the intermediate is 2 hours
of care per member per day.
Mr. Crowley said the request in the budget for additional staffing that was approved by
the Secretary’s office and by the Board and forwarded to the Governor sought to address this
situation so that we could be staffed somewhat above the minimum requirement. This would
accomplish, hopefully, the elimination of forced overtime and minimize the cause of
voluntary overtime for the staff at King. There are no vacancies in the RN positions, one
vacancy in the LPN position, and 28 CNA positions are currently open; however, 16 people
were recruited for orientation the Tuesday after Labor Day.
2
Mr. Crowley will bring a report to the Long Term Care Committee’s next meeting on the
actual overtime worked in each of the nursing categories.
Mr. Kloster said the operational study is a critical item that the Department has been
trying to accomplish for some time. A Request for Proposal for an assessment of the Homes
operations and future operations at Chippewa Falls was issued on July 9 to over 380 vendors.
Tours of the Veterans Homes have been conducted for prospective vendors and questions
submitted by those vendors have already been answered. Proposals are due August 23rd. A
panel will evaluate those proposals, score them and the top scorers will be invited to an
interview. After the interviews the Department will give a notice of intent to award with an
expected start date on the contract of October 1st.
Mr. Wendt asked if the per diem payments from the VA to Union Grove from September
to May had ever been solved. Mr. Kloster said is has not yet been resolved by the federal
VA. However, we did not count that money in the financial report—it is a little over a half a
million dollars of potential loss because of a new interpretation. If notified that we are not
going to get that money, we intend to pursue any means available to appeal that decision.
Mr. Wendt’s second question was regarding VA per diem for 70% disabled veterans and
Mr. Kloster said that Deputy Secretary Mansfield is using all of his authority to get the rules
written to cover per diem payments for veterans who have a 70% or greater service-
connected disability rating and are residing in state veterans’ homes to have their cost of care
paid by the federal VA. The bill that was signed into law by the President says that the
effective date has to be retroactive to March 2007.
It was announced that Jackie Moore was selected to fill the position as the Deputy
Commandant of the Wisconsin Veterans Home-King.
7. Public Input
Yvonne Duesterhoeft, Jefferson CVSO, said that Union Grove has two licensed nursing
home administrators and only one at King. Mr. Crowley said that only one can be the
licensee of record and Jackie Moore is the licensee of record at King. There are two others
on the staff who are fully licensed as nursing home administrators. Ms. Duesterhoeft noted
that in Jefferson County the Administrator of the facility is the one with the license, how did
we come to the position where the Commandant isn’t the license holder? Mr. Moen said
there is nothing in the law that requires the Commandant to hold a nursing home
administrator’s license. Mr. Kloster said that the Commandant also has many constabulary
duties on the campus which is unique to our situation.

Mr. Moen had a comment on the Veterans Home Citation Report. Mr. Crowley said that
some citations result from self reporting as opposed to coming out of the required annual
surveys. Mr. Moen noted that it is required by Administrative Code that citations be self-
reported.
3
Board Chairman Moran and Acting Secretary Kloster presented a plaque to Ken Wendt,
commending him for his term as a member of the Board of Veterans Affairs.
9. Next Meeting Schedule

October 18-19 in Platteville at the Wisconsin Army National Guard Armory, 475 N.
Water Street.
10. Adjournment
It was moved by Mr. Kavanaugh, seconded by Mr. Walker and carried unanimously on a
voice vote to adjourn the meeting; the time was 5:10 p.m.
Rod Moen
Chairman
4
MINUTES
FINANCIAL COMMITTEE

Bill Andersen Russ Alsteen, NCUSA
Walter Stenavich Cleon “Pat” Brown, USSVWWII
Al Richards Donna Chrzas, Columbia CVSO
Jim Gausmann Marv Freedman, Board Vice Chair
Joe Campbell Mike Furgal
Al Kochenderfer Jackie Guthrie, Board Member
Mike Demske Jesse Haro, CWV
Holly Hoppe, Oconto CVSO
Committee Excused Michael Jackson, Dane CVSO
John O’Brien Steve Lawrence, VFW Adjutant
Bill Hustad Bud Mautz, American Legion
Bill Bottoms Duane Miskulin
Pete Moran, Board Chairman
WDVA Present
William Kloster, Acting Secretary
Anthony Hardie, Executive Assistant
Jimmy Stewart, Chief Legal Counsel
Bill Crowley, Commandant, WVH-K
Mike Diaz, Division Administrator
Ken Abrahamsen, Budget Director
Seth Perelman, Division Administrator
Nate Nez, Regional Coordinator
Julie Van Metre, Executive Staff Assistant

The meeting of the Financial Committee was called to order at 5:15 p.m.; a quorum was
present.

It was moved, seconded, and carried unanimously on a voice vote to approve the minutes
of the June 14, 2007 Financial Committee meeting.
4. State Contracting Process

Mr. Andersen said he requested this report because the Financial Committee needs to
better understand how discretionary spending is done at the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Mr. Perelman explained to the Committee the procurement process prior to contract,
involving a contract, post contract, the payment process and the fact that all procurement
1
transactions are subject to audit. His briefing covered both procurement and payment and in
the context of those two items he talked about contracting and consulting contracts.
Committee members received a handout of the slide presentation (copy attached to these
minutes).
Mr. Perelman was asked how much the Department has paid in prompt payment penalties
for failure to pay an invoice in a timely manner, and what discounts were earned for early
payment. He did not have that information at hand. Mr. Andersen asked that Mr. Perelman
report in October on the audits and internal controls from the fiscal side of the house.
5. WDVA Consulting Contracts

Mr. Perelman gave a slide presentation on consulting contracts for fiscal year 2007 and
pending, and noted past expenditures for consulting contracts (copy of the slides attached to
these minutes).
Mr. Kloster said that the Department reviewed the loan interest rates and, based on the
marketing survey, will maintain the current interest rates for the Personal Loan Program and
the Home Improvement Loan Program.
The Acting Secretary met with Capital Finance to discuss remedies for the potential
outage in the Primary Mortgage Loan Repayment Fund. They are working on various
options to come up with a resolution.
7. Public Input
In answer to a committee member’s question, it was reported that the current rate of
interest earned on our investments with the State of Wisconsin Investment Board is 5.3%.

None.

October 18-19 in Platteville at the Wisconsin Army National Guard Armory at 475 N.
Water Street.
10. Adjournment
It was moved by Mr. Campbell, seconded by Mr. Stenavich and carried unanimously on a
voice vote to adjourn the meeting; the time was 5:40 p.m.
Bill Andersen
Chairman
2
Wisconsin Department of
Veterans Affairs
The Contracting Process
August 16, 2007

WDVA Procurement
and Payment Process
• Procurement Process
(Per WDVA FS-211)
• Payment Process
(Per WDVA FS-211 and FS-201)
Procurement Process Prior to Contract
Completion of the Requisition

•With Assistance of DVA Purchasing Coordinator (DPC),
Contract Manager Determines Vendor, Item and Price
•DPC certifies requisition
•Approval Authority for Requisitions (<$5K & > $5K)
•Exceptions to Requirement for Requisition
(P-Card, Training Request, Direct Charges, etc)
Procurement Process Involving a Contract
Considerations in Contracting
•State Contracts
•Best Judgment Purchases
•Simplified Bids
•Consolidated Agency Purchasing Services (CAPS)
Negotiating the Contract

•Primarily the responsibility of Contract Manager with the
assistance of CAPS when appropriate.
•All contracts must be reviewed and approved by Chief Legal
Counsel and the Administrator of the Division of Admin prior
to signature.
•Sunshine Act Reporting: Solicitations and
Contracts over $10K
Procurement Process Post Contract
Processing the Purchase Order (PO)
•Required for all one-time purchases over $5K annually, when
vendor requires and/or blanket orders for periodic purchases.
•WISMART Entry Specialist (WES) enters data on WISMART
•Encumbers funds on State Accounting System
•WES returns copy 4 of the requisition, vendor copy of PO, and
requester copy of PO to requester (Contract Manager).
•Div Administrator or designee reviews and signs vendor copy
•Requester sends copy to vendor
•WES forwards original requisition, supporting documentation
and two copies of PO to Accounts Payable (BOFS)
•Accounts Payable reviews the requisition and PO to ensure all
DVA policies and procedures have been properly followed
•BOFS retains all records for review by SBOP
•BOFS retains the original contract in a lockbox.
Payment Process
Direct charges and Invoices with or without Purchase Orders
• All Invoices are conveyed to Accounts Payable, date
stamped and logged.
• Invoices received elsewhere must be initialed, date stamped,
reported to Accounts Payable to be logged.
• Accounts payable routes to Contract Manager for verification
of receipt and acceptance of goods and services.
• Contract Manager has three days to approve the invoice and
return it to Accounts Payable for payment. Accounts payable
reviews the log daily and follows up on any overdue reviews.
• If Contract Manager does not approve invoice for payment,
he/she must work with Accounts Payable to file Notice of
Good Faith Dispute within 10 days of receipt of invoice.
• Once Accounts Payable receives the approved invoice, they
key it into WISMART within 3 days.
• If the invoice is not paid timely, WDVA will be
required to pay a prompt payment penalty.
Audit
All Procurement Transactions are subject to:

• Pre-audit by BOFS (as noted above)
• Periodic audits by the State Comptroller (DOA),
• Spot reviews by SBOP (DOA),
• Legislative Audit Bureau (LAB) audits as directed by
the Legislature
• Internal audits by the Office of Plans, Programs and
Budget (OPPB) as directed by the Secretary
Comments?
Questions?
Wisconsin Department of
Veterans Affairs
Consulting Contracts
August 16, 2007

Consulting Contracts FY07
Vendor Purpose FY 07 Contract Justification for Contract
Expenditure Manager
s ($)
Donald Campbell and Fundraising 3,354 Seth Perelman Lack of necessary expertise in-house
Company Counsel concerning development.
Flaherty and Assoc Communications 23,570 Andrew Required assistance with specific projects,
Consulting Schuster e.g. IOU, WVH Marketing, speeches and pubs.
Colleen Morris Medicare 2,788 Pat Conducted MDS compliance training for
Consulting Shaughnessy skilled nursing staff.
Organizational Consulting on 8,300 Tom Rhatican Required an independent, 360 degree review
Development WVH King Mgmt of WVH management.
Consulting Survey
Virchow Krause and Co. King Nursing 19,595 Colleen Holtan Required independent, expert development of
Study (Acctng key assumptions, consultation on elements
Consulting) and formats of business plans, assessment of
nursing needs at WVH-King for FY 07/09
Biennial Budget, and review of business
plans.
Linda Gobis Legal Consulting 3,250 Bev Warzynski Required specialized independent review of
Services charting by RN/Attorney. One time only, not
ongoing.
Pending Consulting Contract
Vendor Purpose Projected Contract Justification for Contract

Expenditures Manager
($)
Unknown (RFP Pending) Operational & 250,000 Colleen Holtan Provide independent assessment of Department
Financial nursing home operations and future requirements
Assessment of for FY 09/11 Biennial Budget.
Wis Veterans
Homes
Past Expenditures for Consulting Contracts
• FY 03 $24,163.88
• FY 04 $22,776.58
• FY 05 $54,393.22
• FY 06 $82,668.60
• FY 07 $60,856.56
Comments?
Questions?
MINUTES
COUNCIL ON VETERANS PROGRAMS
Members Present Others Present

Russ Alsteen, NCUSA Bill Andersen, Board Member
Paul Bialk, MCL Nick Benzinger, Shawano CVSO
Pat Brown, USSVWWII Jean Bromley, VAMC Milwaukee
Rick Cherone, MOPH Joe Campbell
Paul Fine, ANU Donna Chrzas, Columbia CVSO
Jesse Haro, CWV Mike Demske, VVA President
Chris Kanios, VFW Carter Doering
Jon LiDonne, CVSO Association Roger Fetterly, MOAA
John Margowski, VVA Marvin Freedman, Board Vice Chair
Bud Mautz, American Legion Mike Furgal
Walter Peterson, Am. Ex-POWs Jackie Guthrie, Board Member
Jerry Rabetski, PLAV Tom Heffron
Vera Roddy, UWV Holly Hoppe, Oconto CVSO
Clif Sorenson, WACVO Michael Jackson, Dane CVSO
Clarence Stoel, DAV Fred Kaiser, Waushara CVSO
Tim Thiers, AMVETS Al Kochenderfer
Paul Weprinsky, JWV Steve Lawrence, VFW Adjutant
Dr. Kenneth Lee, Zablocki VAMC
Members Excused Duane Miskulin
Mark Foreman, VVAW Pete Moran, Board Chair
Bill Hustad, WVV Ted Mynyk, Iowa CVSO
William Sims, NABV Lois O’Keefe, Congresswoman Moore’s Aide
Mike Smith, ARC Al Richards
Jack Stone, PVA Rick Scollon
WWI vacancy Walter Stenavich, Board Member
FCDV vacancy Mercedes Stewart
WDVA Present Jim Tratz, AMVETS Commander
William Kloster, Acting Secretary Cathy Tratz, AMVETS Auxiliary President
Anthony Hardie, Executive Assistant Alan Walker
Jimmy Stewart, Chief Legal Counsel Ken Wendt
Ken Abrahamsen, Budget Director Jim Young, Vernon CVSO
Seth Perelman, Division of Administration
Ken Black, Division of Veterans Benefits
Mike Diaz, Veterans Homes
Bill Crowley, Commandant WVH-K
Gary Wistrom, Acting Commandant, UG
Pat Shaughnessy, Deputy Commandant
Dennis Bohen, Claims Director
Andrew Schuster, Public Relations
Nate Nez, Regional Coordinator
Julie Van Metre, Executive Staff Assistant
1. Call to Order and Roll Call of Members
1
The meeting of the Council on Veterans Programs was called to order by Chairman
Sorenson at 8:00 a.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

3. Introduction of Guests and Announcements

Introductions included: Bill Andersen, Veterans Board member; Lois O’Keefe, Aide to
Congresswoman Moore; Jackie Guthrie, Veterans Board member; Jim Tratz, AMVETS
Commander; Cathy Tratz, AMVETS Auxiliary President and Mike Demske, President of
Vietnam Veterans of America.
4. Approval of Minutes of June 14-15 Meetings

It was moved by Mr. Margowski and seconded by Mr. Fine to accept the minutes of the
June 14-15 meetings. Mr. Kanios noted that on page 2 in the last paragraph it should read
Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. The motion to accept the corrected minutes carried.
5. Council Communications
Chairman Sorenson reminded all organizations to submit their 2005-07 Activities and
Membership Report to the Department of Veterans Affairs before September 30, 2007.
6. Museum Foundation Report

Acting Secretary Kloster reported that the museum’s golf outing raised over $25,000 for
museum programs. The Museum was awarded a $3,000 grant from Dane County Cultural
Affairs for the annual Forest Hills Cemetery tour conducted in Madison. The museum has
been doing a series of noon lectures by the archival staff. One program was videotaped and
is available for your viewing on line through WisconsinEye News Network. The Black Cat
Club of the 13th Evac Hospital gave the museum $3,700 for programs.
7. Kenneth Lee, MD, Chief of Spinal Cord Injury, Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center
Dr. Lee thanked the Council for its help in getting Congress to pass a $32 million funding
bill for a new spinal cord injury center in Milwaukee. Meetings have begun with the
architects and engineers to design the initial phase. There was a groundbreaking ceremony
on June 19th during the Wheelchair Games. On September 25th there will be a forum at the
Matousek Auditorium where the architects will show the public the space design. The
National PVA sends two architects to each meeting to represent the veterans’ side. Dr. Lee
thanked Congresswoman Moore who has led the way. The USDVA would like the project to
be move-in ready by December 2009.
Mr. Thiers suggested that Dr. Lee come to the veterans organizations for any “wish list”
items that the budget falls short on covering. The veteran community may be able to raise
additional funds on behalf of the spinal cord injury center. Dr. Lee said there is a shell of
1,000 square feet for which he may ask support to build the interior for the benefit of all
veterans.
8. Take Action on Veterans Assistance Foundation Request to Become a Member of the

Council on Veterans Programs
It was moved by Mr. Fine, seconded by Mr. Margowski and carried unanimously on a
voice vote to support the efforts of the Veterans Assistance Foundation to become a member
2
of the Council on Veterans Programs by sending a letter to the Chairs of the Senate and
Assembly Veterans Committees showing support of their membership.
9. Discussion/Action on Distribution of Council on Veterans Programs’ Draft Minutes

It was moved by Mr. Alsteen and seconded by Mr. Cherone that the Council on Veterans
Programs take a position consistent with the Board of Veterans Affairs and not authorize
distribution of its draft minutes until they have been approved by the body. After discussion
a roll call vote was taken. Alsteen-aye; Bialk-aye; Brown-aye; Cherone-aye; Fine-aye; Haro-
no; Stoel-aye; Kanios-aye; LiDonne-no; Margowski-no; Mautz-no; Peterson-aye; Rabetski-
aye; Roddy-no; Thiers-no; Weprinsky-aye; Sorenson-abstain. There were 10 aye votes, 6 no
votes and 1 abstention. The motion carried.

Acting Secretary Kloster explained that the Board, Committee and Council proceedings
are recorded digitally. The draft minutes are a synopsis of the proceedings; they are not a
verbatim transcript. Those minutes then go to the various Division Administrators and staff
personnel in the Department for their review and input to make sure that what they said was
accurately interpreted. The Acting Secretary edits them for readability. Once that is taken
care of, all the members of the Committees, Councils and Board receive the draft minutes.
No one is trying to suppress anything; we are trying to make sure that the final minutes that
are printed include any changes that may be made at the time of their adoption.
Mr. Kloster advised that he has an electronic copy of the US Department of Veterans
Affairs document announcing a 24-hour Suicide Prevention Hotline if anyone would like a
copy. The number is 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255). Mike Diaz has done an unofficial
translation of that document into Spanish if that is needed.
On February 22, 2006, the Board formally approved the naming of the new Veterans
Assistance Center building in Chippewa Falls as Klein Hall. Once that facility is up and
running, the Department will be announcing a time for its dedication.
11. Old Business

Discussion/action on support of the Wisconsin GI Bill remaining in its original form.
Mr. Alsteen provided a letter he drafted to the Conference Committee members regarding
support of the Wisconsin GI Bill in its original form. It was moved by Mr. Alsteen,
seconded by Mr. Fine and carried unanimously on a voice vote to approve and send the letter
to the Conference Committee members under the Chairman’s signature.
12. New Business

Mr. Alsteen said he testified on behalf of the Council at the Senate hearings regarding the
inclusion of MOAA and TREA to the Council on Veterans Programs.
13. Activities within the Veterans Community

Jon LiDonne, CVSO, suggested that Council members remember who they represent.
Many members could serve in dual capacities and at the last meeting CVSO Association
issues were covered by another member.
Vera Roddy, UWV, thanked everyone for their generous donations to the clothing drive
for the Women Veterans Clothing Room. There will be an open house of the Clothing room
3
at the VA on September 20th. Secondly, a Women Veterans Conference is being held on
September 28-29 at Ft. McCoy.
Tim Thiers, AMVETS, said the AMVETS annual King weekend is September 14-15.
Also, the AMVETS Convention recognized Anthony Hardie with its State Legislative
Advocacy Award. The AMVET of the Year was Rich Calcut.
Paul Bialk, MCL, said that a project of the Veterans Board of the War Memorial is to
construct a memorial for the Purple Heart people from the State of Wisconsin; donations are
welcome. Secondly, the USO is undergoing a transition to the National Organization. The
USO will be able to help with a Fisher type house at the Milwaukee VA grounds.
Jerry Rabetski, PLAV, reminded everyone that the National Medal of Honor Society
Convention is being held in Green Bay, Wisconsin this September. They could use financial
support from all organizations. Mr. Alsteen said a fishing trip is being planned for these
Medal of Honor recipients and because of the fact that they are not residents of Wisconsin;
they will have to buy out-of-state resident fishing licenses. He asked if there is a way to have
the Department of Natural Resources waive those fees for one day.
Rich Cherone, MOPH, said their King Day is September 9th. He also thanked the
WDVA for helping MOPH put on the Purple Heart Day ceremony on August 7th.
Bud Mautz, American Legion, will be attending the National Convention in Reno. The
Auxiliary will be electing a lady from Waunakee, Wisconsin as its National Auxiliary
President, Jan Pulvermacher-Ryan.
Walter Peterson, American Ex-POWs, said they will hold their state convention on
August 22-23 at Plover.
14. Public Input

Mr. Carter Doering brought attention to a program that he does not think is being
publicized to veterans, cemetery directors or the public at large. And, that is the placement
of government issued burial markers in public cemeteries. Some of the markers do fall apart
after many years and/or have errors in the script. There is a program for a replacement
marker and a veteran or family member needs to go to a veterans service officer to initiate
this process. Mr. Sorenson said if the family does not have the wherewithal to place the
marker, then they should contact their County Veterans Service Officer to help defray that
expense.
Mr. Campbell brought to the attention of the Council some important new developments
with the enhanced use lease at the VA grounds in Milwaukee. The City of Milwaukee
Common Council three weeks ago suggested that sexual predators should be placed on the
VA grounds. It was fortunately tabled. Mr. Campbell said that the surgeon’s quarters was
restored two and a half years ago and houses 12-14 veteran preference individuals. It is not a
veteran housing project. There is a proposal asking the Wisconsin Senators and
Congressional Delegation to consider making Milwaukee a regional trauma center. They
asked for the cemetery to be expanded, not reopened. There are 37 acres of land which
would take care of over 15,000 new graves.

4
October 18-19 in Platteville at the Wisconsin Army National Guard Armory, 475 Water
Street.
16. Adjournment
It was moved by Mr. Thiers, seconded by Mr. Mautz and carried on a voice vote to
adjourn, the time was 9:20 a.m.
Clif Sorenson
Chairman
5
BOARD MINUTES
Board Members Present Council on Veterans Programs Members Present

Peter J. Moran Russ Alsteen, Navy Club
Marvin J. Freedman Paul Bialk, MCL
Rodney C. Moen Cleon “Pat” Brown, USSVWWII
William H. Andersen Rick Cherone, MOPH
Jackie Guthrie Paul Fine, ANU
Walter M. Stenavich Jesse Haro, CWV
Chris Kanios, Sr., VFW
Board Members Excused Jon LiDonne, CVSO Association
Mack E. Hughes John Margowski, VVA
Bud Mautz, American Legion
WDVA Present Walter Peterson, Am Ex-POW
Bill Kloster, Acting Secretary Jerry Rabetski, PLAV
Anthony Hardie, Executive Assistant Vera Roddy, UWV
Bill Crowley, Commandant-King Clif Sorenson, WACVO
Jimmy Stewart, Chief Legal Counsel Clarence Stoel, DAV
Mike Diaz, Division of Veterans Homes Tim Thiers, AMVETS
Ken Abrahamsen, Budget Director Paul Weprinsky, JWV
Seth Perelman, Division of Administration
Ken Black, Division of Veterans Benefits Others Present
Gary Wistrom, Acting Commandant-UG Scott Berger, Marathon CVSO
Pat Shaughnessy, Deputy Commandant-UG Jean Bromley, VAMC-Milwaukee
Andy Schuster, Communications Director Joe Campbell
Nate Nez, Regional Coordinator Donna Chrzas, Columbia CVSO
Fernando Rodriguez, VAP Specialist Mike Demske, VVA
Dennis Bohen, WDVA Claims Office Carter Doering
Julie Van Metre, Executive Staff Assistant Roger Fetterly, MOAA
Mike “Gunner” Furgal
CVSO Advisory Council Present Tom Heffron, WI Technical College System
Nick Benzinger, Shawano CVSO Holly Hoppe, Oconto CVSO
Michael Jackson, Dane CVSO Al Kochenderfer, VFW
Fred Kaiser, Waushara CVSO Jon LiDonne, Waupaca CVSO
Ted Mynyk, Iowa CVSO Connie Ligman, Forward Observer
Robert Stone, Rusk CVSO John Margowski, Waukesha CVSO
Duane Miskulin, AMVETS Nat’l Finance Officer
Renee Oshinski, VISN 12
Al Richards, Financial Committee member
Rick Scollon
Mercedes Stewart
Cathy Tratz, AMVETS Auxiliary President
Jim Tratz, AMVETS Dept. Commander
Victor Vela, WI American GI Forum Commander
Alan Walker, Long Term Care Committee member
Ken Wendt
1. Roll Call and Introductions
1
The meeting of the Board of Veterans Affairs was called to order at 9:40 a.m. The
Pledge of Allegiance was recited followed by a moment of silence. A quorum was
determined present after roll call of members.
A plaque of recognition was presented to Mr. Tom Heffron of the Wisconsin

Technical College System for contributing greatly to smooth, amicable relations between
the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs and the Wisconsin Technical College
System in jointly administering the Wisconsin GI Bill.

It was certified that proper notification of the meeting occurred.
It was moved by Mr. Moen, seconded by Mr. Andersen and carried on a voice vote to
approve the minutes of the June 14-15 meetings.
It was moved by Mr. Stenavich, seconded and carried on a voice vote to approve the
minutes of the July 17, 2007 teleconference meeting of the Board.
4. Board Members’ Matters

Chairman Moran’s activity report: Attended the June 19th groundbreaking ceremony
for the spinal cord injury center building at the Milwaukee VA Medical Center.
Attended the opening ceremony for the 27th National Wheelchair Games. Toured the
Northern Center at Chippewa Falls and the Cemetery improvements in Spooner on June
21. Met with Governor Doyle in Superior during his budget tour on July 16th.
Participated in the Board’s teleconference on July 17th to discuss the 2007-09 state
budget. The outcome of that meeting was a letter to the budget conference committee
regarding the Wisconsin GI Bill, Veterans Property Tax Relief, Nurse Staffing Levels at
the King Home and PTSD. Chairman Moran receives regular emails from Secretary
Scocos expressing the challenges that he and his comrades are facing in Iraq. On August
15th Mr. Moran met with Governor Doyle’s Policy Advisor for Veterans Affairs.
Vice Chairman Freedman’s activity report: Attended the June 19th groundbreaking
ceremony of the Milwaukee VA Spinal Cord Center and the PVA National Wheelchair
Games opening ceremony. Represented the Board at a press conference on July 18th held
by the Lt. Governor in Madison concerning the GI Bill. Attended the Change of
Command ceremony for the Wisconsin Adjutant General on August 3rd. Col. Don
Dunbar will be taking over for General Wilkening on September 1st. On August 5th
WDVA did a presentation to Aleta Mercer, broadcasting coordinator for the Brewers.
Mr. Kloster and Mr. Freedman presented her with a plaque as the Mission Welcome
Home Coordinator for the year. Attended the August 7th Purple Heart Day 2007
ceremony in Madison. Mr. Freedman and Mr. Hardie co-chaired a meeting of the
WDVA’s PTSD Advisory Panel on August 10th and they hope to have reports and
recommendations filed by the October Board meeting.
Mr. Moen requested that the Chairman and Vice Chairman look at a more efficient
and economical way to provide the Board with information that it needs for the meetings.
2
Members spend much time organizing the various papers that get mailed and emailed to
them.
Ms. Guthrie thanked Mike Diaz for the tour of the Union Grove Veterans Home. In
July Ms. Guthrie represented the Board at a press conference with the Green Bay Packers
where they announced the sale of military support caps this year. She also attended
General Wilkening’s change of command ceremony. Ms. Guthrie is a member of the
PTSD panel. She will be attending the Women’s Veterans Conference in Ft. McCoy at
the end of next month.
Mr. Stenavich attended two state conventions. He is part of a funding committee to

bring submarine veterans of WWII to Green Bay in 2009.
5. Board Action from Committee and Council Meetings

Mr. Mynyk said that the CVSO Advisory Council took no action that would require
Board consideration. The Council held its election of officers—John Solis, Chair and
Mark Grams, Vice Chair. The next CVSO Advisory Council meeting will be September
27 during the CVSO Conference in Madison.
Mr. Freedman said the Legislative and Program Review Committee met and took
action items which are also agenda items 9, 10, 11, 13 and 14 of the Board. Mr.
Freedman will bring the recommendations from the Committee to the Board during
discussion on those agenda items.
Mr. Moen said the Long Term Care Committee met and took no action that would
require Board consideration today. Mr. Moen said the committee heard reports on
concern about fire safety and a report on the staffing ratio. Mr. Moen received a report of
a couple of incidents which were self reported as required by state Administrative Rules.
Mr. Andersen said the Financial Committee met and took no action that would
require Board consideration today. The Committee heard two information briefings, one
on the contracting process and another on consulting contracts that are pending. For the
next Financial Committee meeting Mr. Andersen has asked for another information
briefing on the scheduled or unscheduled audits of financial documents.
Mr. Sorenson said the Council on Veterans Programs took no action that would
require Board consideration. The Council supported the Veterans Assistance Foundation
effort to become a member of the Council on Veterans Programs. The distribution of the
Council’s draft minutes will remain the same as the Board’s policy for distribution of
minutes.
6. VISN 12 and VISN 23 Reports

Ms. Oshinski congratulated and thanked Wisconsin for hosting the wonderfully
successful Wheelchair Game Events for 2007.
Ms. Oshinski said that there has been publicity lately about the new 1-800 national
suicide prevention hotline. That can be accessed from anywhere in the country by any
veteran who may have ideas about hurting themselves or others.
3
The VA is taking strong steps to try and eliminate medication resistant infections that
can be acquired in hospitals. Since June 1st every person coming into the ICUs of
veterans’ hospitals in VISN 12 gets their nose swabbed for an immediate test to see if
they have any kind of medication resistant infection. Beginning October 1st anyone being
admitted to a VA hospital in VISN 12 will have their nose swabbed.
VISN 23 is opening a new CBOC in Bemidji, MN and they have opened the
Hayward, Wisconsin clinic that provides service to 250 veterans five days a week. They
are hoping that the Rice Lake Clinic will be open some time this fall.
VISN 12 has had significant turnover in its directors. Mr. Grippen and Mr. Stan
Johnson have moved, Janice Boss went to Wilksbury and Mr. Geraths went to Hines.
Debra Thompson has rejoined the Network and is at Madison. They are currently
interviewing candidates from around the country at Tomah and there is a pending
nomination for Iron Mountain.
Ms. Oshinski introduced Jean Bromley, who has been active with the Department of
Veterans Affairs, the homeless programs, long term care and King. She is the VISN 12
lead for the OIF OEF Program. In that capacity she works not only in Wisconsin but
across the Network to make sure that the full array of services are offered for our
returning veterans. Ms. Bromley gave a brief update on some new programs that are
provided for returning veterans. In VISN 12 they continue to expand the number of
combat veterans seen and in the first two quarters of FY 2007 they saw as many combat
veterans as in all of FY 2006. They have added additional case managers and program
managers at all of the facilities. All returning combat veterans receive traumatic brain
injury screening. Each site now has poly trauma teams so that if a veteran does screen
positively for being exposed to brain injury they then receive a full evaluation. There are
special training programs on eating disorders, particularly for women veterans. Another
new initiative is the implementation of quarterly focus groups throughout the VISN to get
feedback from returning combat veterans and their families about the services they are or
are not receiving.
Ms. Bromley said an electronic veteran’s record tracking mechanism is going to be

implemented. The elimination of wait lists has been a priority for all veterans. The goal
is that all veterans are seen within 14 days for mental health appointments and 30 days
for all other appointments. Ms. Oshinski added that the VISN is probably 97% at 30
days or less, they are not at 14 days. They are continuing with the push to bring on more
mental health professionals. Vera Roddy, UWV, said that the Women Veterans Program
Manager position has been empty since last winter, is there a new manager coming soon?
Ms. Bromley said they are recruiting for that position.
Mr. Freedman was gratified to know about the establishment of the National Suicide
Prevention Hotline. He thanked Ms. Oshinski and Dr. Petzel for providing information
about the new mental health positions and breakdown. He asked if inpatient PTSD
treatment programs such as the one at Tomah only exist at 27 VA Hospitals nationally.
Ms. Oshinski said yes, and that most of that work is done outpatient. Mr. Freedman said
that the need for this type of a program is much greater than is evidenced by the
4
commitment of so few specialized PTSD inpatient treatment centers in the United States.
Do VISN 23 and 12 provide input and recommendations with regard to the need for new
Vet Centers within their respective VISNs and what role do they have with respect to
making recommendation on staffing? Ms. Oshinski said VISNs try to coordinate with
Vet Centers when they do training. Vet Centers are a completely separate function and
budget within the Veterans Health Administration. Mr. Freedman asked, with respect to
the wait list for mental health appointments—how are aggravated cases handled, where
someone needs immediate attention, is there a triage mechanism utilized in VISN 12?
Ms. Oshinski said if somebody walks in and needs help, they can be seen immediately.
There is no waiting when a person is in a situation where they may harm others or
themselves.
Mr. Campbell asked what VISN 12 is hearing about the enhanced use lease situation.
Ms. Oshinski said it has been very quiet since the City of Milwaukee pulled back. Mr.
Campbell said the VA has started a six or seven week program for Operation Iraqi
Freedom and their families that is conducted in the evenings, which is very convenient
for the veterans.
7. Report on the Cook-Chill Food Service

Acting Secretary Kloster provided the Board members with a memo about the history
behind when the cook-chill effort began in 1992. Mr. Diaz provided an executive
summary of the food service survey as part of a request from the Board of Veterans
Affairs. The survey was conducted the week of July 9-13, 2007 at both homes. The total
participation of the survey was 573 residents reflecting a 67% participation rate. The
survey measured the appearance, temperature and flavor of the meals. It also attempted
to measure the level of satisfaction of the resident with respect to their most and least
satisfying meal.
Results: Favorable responses were received by 88% of the residents at King and 87%
of the residents at Union Grove. Food was rated excellent or very good by 21% of the
residents at King and 23% of the residents at Union Grove. The majority of residents at
both homes found breakfast to be their most satisfying meal of the day. A plurality of the
residents identified supper as their least satisfying meal of the day. Food was rated poor
by 12% of the residents at King and 13% of the residents at Union Grove. The
temperature of the food was rated poor by 14% of the residents at Union Grove and 3%
of the residents at King.
Mr. Freedman asked to receive a copy of the survey itself. He also wanted a memo or
summary of the methodology used with the survey. Mr. Diaz said that Union Grove was
surveyed fairly quickly because of the smaller census, however this is an additional duty
for the staff to capture the responses, collect the surveys and tabulate them. Having the
survey done at the same time for the same meal is very time consuming. Mr. Freedman
suggested the need for an independent survey where it is not being conducted by staff
and management but by a neutral third party.
Mr. Andersen liked the idea that the survey would be done a couple of times a year
but it should be done by someone outside the Department. His understanding of a
creditable survey was at least 90% to 95% compliance. Mr. Diaz said our Department
5
statistician felt that our return rate of 67% was about what he expected from our fragile
population.
Mr. Moen talked about the rating “fair” and where does that fit on a scale of 1-10,
about a five? Mr. Diaz said the Department looked at “fair” as meeting standards. Mr.
Kloster said that each individual has their own standard for what they eat, however to
have over 850 standards, one for each resident; will never get us to an acceptable place.
There are a lot of choices available to each of us, however in an institutional setting; one
gets to eat what is being served for that day. We need to agree to have an acceptable
standard by which to measure what we’re doing.
Mr. Scollon added that the main meal of the day for nursing home residents is lunch.
He was impressed with the rate of return received with the WVH food survey. He noted
that the percent of the meal eaten should also be recorded.
8. Report on the Assistance to Needy Veterans Grant Program

Acting Secretary said that the health care portion of the Assistance to Needy Veterans
Grant provides hearing aids, dental work and eyeglasses. At close out of fiscal year 2007
the Department either obligated or disbursed all but $3,000 of the $650,000 budgeted for
that grant. We are spending the money that is allocated for that program. On the
Subsistence Aid portion, we had approximately $50,000 to $60,000 out of $172,000 that
was either not obligated or disbursed. Mr. Kloster has given Ken Black the authority to
form a process action team with some very specific guidelines to follow. This team has
the responsibility of long-term meetings to work through the program and come up with a
complete package at the end, and if any changes are necessary, it will come before the
Board to be a budget item a year from now.
Mr. Freedman asked if there will be CVSO involvement in the process action team.
Mr. Kloster said he has asked Mr. Black to come back with resources he needs to do this
job and County Veterans Service Officers will be a part of the team. Mr. Freedman
suggested that selection of CVSOs to serve on the process action team be made by the
Association.
9. Discussion and Action on the Pre-Application Requirement Process Action Team Report
and CVSO Resolution F001-06 Veterans Education Grant Pre-Enrollment Requirement
The detailed report of the Pre-Application Requirement Process Action Team found
that there were other ways to accomplish what the pre-application requirement set out to
do in theory. The conclusion was that the pre-application requirement was no longer
necessary. The challenge that is faced is that to completely do away with the pre-
application requirement would require statutory action better initiated after the current
budget passes. The issue would be better addressed now by Administrative Rule.
As recommended by the Legislative and Program Review Committee, Mr. Freedman

made a motion that the Board of Veterans affairs adopt as its position the position
reflected in CVSO Association Resolution F001-06 Veterans Education Grant Pre-
Enrollment Requirement which calls for the removal of the pre-application requirement
from the VetEd Program. Mr. Andersen seconded the motion. Ms. Guthrie asked what
purpose did the pre-enrollment serve and what will the Board be eliminating with this
6
motion. Mr. Freedman said they are eliminating what was anticipated to be a way of
projecting costs of the VetEd Program. What the Process Action Team determined was
that there are other, more effective ways to estimate those costs and that the pre-
application requirement was not a desirable way to calculate those projections. Mr.
Kloster added that the essence is to eliminate the number of veterans who are disqualified
from receiving the grant because of the requirement of a pre-application and that is
addressed in the next agenda item of the Board. The motion carried unanimously on a
voice vote.
Mr. Freedman added that there have been hundreds of veterans denied reimbursement
because of this pre-application requirement, just because they didn’t file. Mr. Kloster
said that this program is one of the most expensive grant programs that the Department
has. In order to stay on budget, the Secretary was given the authority to adjust the
reimbursement rate on this grant to make it something less than 100%. Considering that
all schools do not start at the same time and without a forecasting tool, the Department
faces the dilemma of when to make that adjustment.
10. Proposed Administrative Rule Change Regarding the VetEd Pre-Application

Chief Legal Counsel Jimmy Stewart explained that the Statement of Scope of
proposed rules is the first step in promulgating an Administrative Rule change. It goes to
the Reviser of Statutes and then is published. The Department cannot work on the
Statement of Scope for at least ten days following the publication of the item. Mr.
Freedman said that this matter came before the Legislative and Program Review
Committee where they passed a motion recommending that the Board authorize the
Department to proceed with the development of a rule consistent with the Statement of
Scope. It was moved by Mr. Freedman, seconded by Mr. Andersen and carried on a
voice vote that the Board authorize the Department to begin the process of developing a
rule consistent with the Statement of Scope for this proposed rule.
11. Action on DAV Resolutions 2007-02 Tax Exemptions for Goods and Services; 2007-04
Divorce and Compensation; 2007-05 Disabled Veterans Reduced Fees; 2007-07 State
Lottery Scratch Off Ticket “GI Dough”; and 2007-09 Wisconsin Veterans and Surviving
Spouse Property Tax Credit
Mr. Freedman said these DAV Resolutions came before the Legislative and Program
Review Committee. The first four resolutions were identical to DAV resolutions offered
in August of last year and both the Committee and the Board received and filed them at
that time and the Committee voted to receive and file them again this year. The fifth
resolution is a new resolution that was received and filed by the Committee for the reason
that the position reflected in this resolution, although it would expand the existing
veterans and surviving spouse property tax credit for the State of Wisconsin, reflects a
narrower scope than the position previously taken by both the Board and the Department.
It was moved by Mr. Freedman, seconded by Mr. Stenavich and carried on a voice
vote to receive and file all five of the DAV resolutions.
12. Discussion and Action on the 2007-2009 State Budget
7
This item was included on the Board’s agenda in the event that the Legislature would
have completed its work on the budget. The budget has not passed, therefore, this agenda
item is moot.
13. Discussion and Action on the Need for Additional USDVA Vet Centers in Wisconsin
Mr. Freedman said this item was also on the agenda for the Legislative and Program
Review Committee. The Committee placed the subject matter on its next meeting agenda
for more detailed discussion. Background information was provided to the Committee
and the Board in their meeting packets. Wisconsin currently has two Vet Centers and
considering its veteran population and number of square miles, it should have two
additional Vet Centers. There were 23 new Vet Centers created nationally by the US
Department of Veterans Affairs and with the exception of Michigan, the Midwest did not
fare particularly well in receiving new Vet Centers. Mr. Freedman would like a more in-
depth discussion at the Board’s October meeting.
14. Discussion and Action on the Alleged Misuse of Personality Disorder Discharges by the
U.S. Department of Defense
Mr. Moran said that Mr. Freedman and the Legislative and Program Review
Committee will be doing additional work on this matter and will report to the Board at its
next meeting. Mr. Freedman added that there are various forms of legislation in the
process of being introduced such as H.R. 3167: Fair Mental Health Evaluation for
Returning Veterans Act to impose a temporary moratorium on the discharge of members
of the Armed Forces for personality disorder, except in certain specified cases.
15. Board of Veterans Affairs’ Veterans Recognition Award

Chairman Moran explained a proposal to establish a Board of Veterans Affairs’
award to recognize a veteran within the region where the Board is meeting. The award
would underscore the Board’s commitment to taking veterans affairs issues out to where
veterans live, work, and enjoy the freedoms of our great country. This award would
recognize a veteran who has compiled a record of exemplary service as a military
member, a veterans’ advocate, and a citizen. The award would be in the form of a
plaque, supported by a proclamation signed by the Board Chairman. A Board sub-
committee, appointed by the Chair, would select the recipients whose nominations would
be solicited via the Department’s website from CVSOs, VSOs and the community. The
award would be presented during the “Board Matters” portion of the Board’s agenda and
the first award presentation will be made in Platteville at the October meeting of the
Board.
adopt the establishment of a Board of Veterans Affairs’ Veterans Recognition Award.

Acting Secretary Kloster advised the Board that in September he will be traveling to
Annapolis, MD to the National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs
Convention. He will take two major items to that Convention for discussion: full
payment from the federal VA for the 70% service-connected disabled veterans who
reside in state veterans homes, and secondly, a resolution regarding the expansion of
existing state veterans cemeteries.
8
17. Public Input
None
18. Other Matters (Not Subject to Adoption)

There were no other matters that came before the Board.
19. Next Meeting Date and Location

October 18-19 in Platteville at the Wisconsin Army National Guard Armory, 475 N.
Water Street.
20. Adjournment
adjourn the meeting; the time was 12:07 p.m.
Pete Moran
Chairman

Board Minutes August 2007

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WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

WDVA Briefing of August 16, 2007

1. Certification of Notice of Meeting and Roll Call

2. Board Committee Appointment

3. Programs Report—Ken Black

4. Veterans Homes Report

The Home Exchange operation had no significant changes to report. In the

The Home is working with the Department of Workforce Development’s visually

The above-ground building connectors at Union Grove are classified as other

1. The Wisconsin GI Bill tuition remission

As clarification relating to the Wisconsin GI Bill, Mr. Hardie explained that it is a

Upcoming events: The Badger Salute on September 1st; Veterans Benefits

Mr. Thiers presented a State Legislative Advocacy Award plaque to Anthony

Members Present Others Present

1. Call to Order and Roll Call

2. Certification of Notice of Meeting

3. Approval of Minutes of June 14, 2007

4. Announcements and Introductions

5. WDVA Form 2045 Update--Verification of Illness or Disability

6. VetEd Process Action team Update

8. Assistance to Needy Veterans Grant Requirements

11. Secretary’s Matters

12. Public Input

13. Council Members’ Matters (Not Subject to Adoption)

14. Election of Officers

15. Next Meeting Schedule

Committee Present Others Present

2. Certification of Notice of Meeting

5. Proposed Administrative Rule Change Regarding the VetEd Pre-Application

7. Discussion and Action on the 2007-2009 State Budget

12. Public Input

13. Committee Members’ Matters (Not Subject to Adoption)

14. Next Meeting Date

Committee Present Others Present

2. Certification of Notice of Meeting

4. Fire Safety at King

5. King Home Staffing Ratios

8. Committee Members’ Matters (Not Subject to Adoption)

9. Next Meeting Schedule

Committee Present Others Present

1. Call to Order and Roll Call

2. Certification of Notice of Meeting

4. State Contracting Process

5. WDVA Consulting Contracts

8. Committee Members’ Matters (Not Subject to Adoption)

9. Next Meeting Date

The Contracting Process

August 16, 2007

Completion of the Requisition

Negotiating the Contract

All Procurement Transactions are subject to:

August 16, 2007

Vendor Purpose Projected Contract Justification for Contract

Members Present Others Present

2. Certification of Notice of Meeting

3. Introduction of Guests and Announcements

4. Approval of Minutes of June 14-15 Meetings

6. Museum Foundation Report

8. Take Action on Veterans Assistance Foundation Request to Become a Member of the

9. Discussion/Action on Distribution of Council on Veterans Programs’ Draft Minutes

10. Secretary’s Matters

11. Old Business

12. New Business

13. Activities within the Veterans Community