Your guide to NYC's public proceedings.
New York City Council
Committee on Veterans
Mar 25, 2025
·
12:00 PM
2 hr 37 min
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Summary
A hearing on the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) fiscal year 2026 preliminary budget.
Discussions focused on:
- The agency's $5.9 million budget (a 16.1% decrease from FY2025)
- Concerns about inadequate funding
- Priorities including data collection
- Support for transitioning service members
- Housing assistance
- Claims processing.
The hearing also addressed challenges with federal VA funding cuts, the implementation of the Dwyer Veterans Peer Support Program, and proposed property tax exemptions for Cold War veterans.
Features testimony from the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) and the public.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Council Member Holden opens Veterans Committee budget hearing
Council Member Robert Holden opens the preliminary budget hearing for the Committee on Veterans, welcoming attendees and introducing key participants. - Introduces himself as the chair of the committee - …
0:00:24
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56 sec
Overview of Department of Veterans Services budget for FY2026
Council Member Holden provides an overview of the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) budget for fiscal year 2026, highlighting key figures and changes from the previous year. - Total budget …
0:01:20
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100 sec
Concerns about federal cuts and inadequate city funding for veterans services
Council Member Holden expresses strong concerns about the inadequate funding for the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) and the impact of federal cuts on veteran programs. - Highlights areas where …
0:03:00
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131 sec
Interest in DVS's innovative approaches to veteran services
Council Member Holden expresses keen interest in learning about the Department of Veterans Services' innovative approaches to addressing various needs of the veteran community. - Focuses on mental health, housing …
0:05:11
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22 sec
Acknowledgments and instructions for public testimony
Council Member Holden concludes his opening remarks by acknowledging staff members and providing instructions for public testimony at the hearing. - Thanks committee staff and personal staff for their preparation …
0:05:34
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65 sec
Introduction and opening remarks
Commissioner James Hendon opens the testimony with acknowledgments and an overview of the hearing's purpose. He introduces key DVS staff members and outlines the structure of his testimony. - Acknowledges …
0:07:08
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66 sec
Demographics of NYC veterans
Commissioner Hendon provides detailed statistics on the demographics of veterans in New York City, highlighting the challenges in accurately counting the veteran population. - Estimated 129,311 to 200,000+ veterans in …
0:08:14
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4 min
History and structure of the Department of Veterans Services
Commissioner Hendon outlines the establishment, evolution, and current structure of the Department of Veterans Services (DVS). - DVS created through Local Law 113 of 2015, officially established on 04/08/2016 - …
0:12:33
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3 min
Charter-mandated areas and services provided by DVS
Commissioner Hendon details the charter-mandated tasks of DVS and how the agency addresses each area through various programs and initiatives. - Six charter-mandated areas: housing, health care, benefits, culture, education, …
0:15:58
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6 min
Agency priorities for veteran services
Commissioner Hendon outlines the five main priorities for DVS, emphasizing their importance in serving the veteran community. - Priorities in order: data, transitioning service members, housing, claims, and culture - …
0:22:03
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5 min
SWOT analysis of the Department of Veterans Services
Commissioner Hendon presents a comprehensive SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis of DVS, highlighting key factors affecting the agency's performance. - Strengths: robust service connections, growing veteran data awareness, strong …
0:27:10
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4 min
Council budget recommendations for veteran services
Commissioner Hendon provides specific budget recommendations for the City Council to consider, focusing on discretionary awards to fill gaps in the veteran ecosystem. - Recommendations for nonprofit funding in areas …
0:31:55
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40 sec
DVS budget focus and goals
Commissioner Hendon outlines the agency's internal budget priorities and goals for the upcoming fiscal year. - Focus on reducing the vacancy rate to less than 3% (38 out of 39 …
0:32:35
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68 sec
Conclusion and future vision for veteran services in NYC
Commissioner Hendon concludes his testimony by summarizing DVS's mission, strategy, and future plans for serving New York City's veteran community. - Reiterates DVS's mission to connect, mobilize, and empower the …
0:33:43
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3 min
DVS funding and veteran self-identification challenges
Council Member Holden addresses the challenges faced by the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) due to limited funding and difficulties in veteran self-identification. He emphasizes the potential benefits of increased …
0:37:00
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112 sec
Progress on DVS vacancies and veteran outreach efforts
Commissioner Hendon provides an update on the Department of Veterans Services' progress in filling vacancies and increasing outreach to veterans in New York City. He highlights improvements in staffing and …
0:38:52
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82 sec
DVS budget details and discussions with OMB
Council Member Holden inquires about the Department of Veterans Services' budget for fiscal years 2025 and 2026, focusing on new needs requests and discussions with the Office of Management and …
0:40:15
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75 sec
NYC veteran disability claim rates and potential benefits of increased funding
Council Member Holden highlights the disparity between NYC's veteran disability claim rate and the national average, emphasizing the potential benefits of increased funding for DVS to address this issue and …
0:41:32
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135 sec
Potential areas for DVS growth with additional funding
Commissioner Hendon outlines several areas where the Department of Veterans Services could expand its services if provided with additional funding, while also acknowledging the constraints of internal discussions with the …
0:43:49
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80 sec
Council member's budget concerns and Commissioner's staffing update
Council Member Holden expresses frustration over the lack of budget increase for the Department of Veterans Services, while Commissioner Hendon provides a positive update on the agency's staffing situation. - …
0:45:10
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64 sec
The importance of supporting veterans and DVS's growth as a young agency
Council Member Holden emphasizes the critical importance of supporting veterans, while Commissioner Hendon highlights the progress of the Department of Veterans Services as a young agency building its infrastructure for …
0:46:15
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77 sec
Discussion on affordable housing opportunities for veterans
Council Member Vickie Paladino inquires about efforts to include veterans in new affordable housing developments. Commissioner James Hendon and Senior Executive Director Lamar Wheeler explain their proactive approach to connecting …
0:47:33
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157 sec
Challenges and importance of veteran self-identification
Council Member Paladino emphasizes the importance of veteran self-identification for increasing the recognized veteran population and securing more funding. She highlights the need for better outreach to inform veterans about …
0:50:09
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82 sec
Support for veteran vendors and permit fees
Commissioner James Hendon explains the Department of Veterans Services' role in assisting and informing veteran vendors about permit fees and relevant agencies. The department focuses on connecting vendors with the …
0:51:32
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63 sec
Strategies for recruiting young veterans for city jobs
Council Member Paladino inquires about methods to recruit young veterans for city jobs, particularly through civil service exams. Commissioner Hendon explains the current processes and outreach efforts for veteran recruitment. …
0:52:53
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108 sec
Challenges in retaining veterans in New York City
Commissioner Hendon and Council Member Paladino discuss the challenges of retaining veterans in New York City, particularly due to the high cost of living. They highlight the need to create …
0:54:42
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62 sec
Council Member Marmorato inquires about veteran street vendors and DVS outreach
Council Member Kristy Marmorato inquires about veteran street vendors in New York City, discussing the number of vendors, license fees, and potential fee waivers. The conversation then shifts to the …
0:55:56
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169 sec
Council Member Holden inquires about the impact of federal funding cuts on veterans services
Council Member Robert Holden raises concerns about federal funding cuts affecting veterans services in New York City. He notes that while federal funding doesn't directly fund DVS's budget, it significantly …
0:59:09
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67 sec
Commissioner Hendon explains DVS's collaborative approach to addressing federal cutbacks
Commissioner James Hendon describes DVS's collaborative approach to addressing the challenges posed by federal funding cuts to veterans services. He emphasizes the importance of partnerships and teamwork in maintaining support …
1:00:16
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108 sec
Lamar Wheeler describes efforts of NYC continuum of care to address veteran homelessness
Lamar Wheeler, Senior Executive Director of Housing Support Services, explains the efforts of the New York City continuum of care in addressing veteran homelessness amidst federal funding challenges. He emphasizes …
1:02:04
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81 sec
Council Member Holden inquires about observable impacts of federal changes on VA services
Council Member Robert Holden asks Lamar Wheeler about the observable impacts of federal changes on VA services in New York City. Wheeler provides initial insights into the current situation. - …
1:03:25
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19 sec
Lamarr Wheeler describes challenges with HUD-VASH program and VA staffing
Lamarr Wheeler, responding to Council Member Holden's questions, details specific challenges faced with the HUD-VASH program and VA staffing in New York City. - Wheeler notes that they are seeing …
1:03:44
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29 sec
Commissioner Hendon explains DVS's role in filling gaps for veterans ineligible for VA health care
Commissioner James Hendon clarifies the role of DVS in providing services to veterans, particularly those who are not eligible for VA health care. He explains how DVS is adapting to …
1:04:14
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33 sec
Discussion on uncertainty about future VA services and potential advocacy
Council Member Robert Holden and Lamar Wheeler discuss the current state of VA services and the uncertainty surrounding their future. They also touch on potential advocacy efforts. - Holden asks …
1:04:47
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45 sec
Council Member Holden inquires about challenges in hiring and training DVS personnel
Council Member Robert Holden shifts the conversation to discuss the challenges faced by DVS in hiring and training personnel. He also offers support for advocacy efforts. - Holden suggests that …
1:05:32
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99 sec
Commissioner Hendon emphasizes the importance of experienced staff and professional development in DVS
Commissioner James Hendon provides a detailed explanation of the importance of experienced staff and ongoing professional development within the Department of Veterans Services (DVS). He highlights the complexity of the …
1:07:11
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121 sec
Council Member Holden emphasizes the value of long-term staff in navigating complex bureaucratic systems
Council Member Robert Holden concludes the discussion by emphasizing the value of long-term staff in navigating complex bureaucratic systems. He draws parallels between his own office experience and the challenges …
1:09:12
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56 sec
Introduction to the Joseph P. Dwyer Veterans Peer Support Program funding
Council Member Robert Holden introduces the topic of the Joseph P. Dwyer Veterans Peer Support Program, highlighting recent budget adjustments and asking about the calculation and utilization of additional funding. …
1:10:08
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44 sec
Detailed explanation of Dwyer Program funding calculation and distribution
Commissioner James Hendon provides a comprehensive explanation of the Joseph P. Dwyer Veterans Peer Support Program funding, including its history, calculation, and distribution. - Outlines the program's funding history from …
1:10:53
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4 min
Team management for the Dwyer Program
Council Member Holden and Commissioner Hendon briefly discuss the team management aspect of the Dwyer Program. - Holden notes the need for a team to manage the program - Hendon …
1:15:39
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38 sec
Fiscal year funding structure for the Dwyer Program
Council Member Holden inquires about the fiscal year funding structure for the Dwyer Program, and Commissioner Hendon provides details on the funding amounts over different fiscal years. - Hendon explains …
1:16:17
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30 sec
Number of veterans served by the Dwyer Program
Council Member Holden inquires about the number of veterans served by the Dwyer Program, and Commissioner Hendon provides details on the program's reach. - Hendon explains that the program is …
1:16:46
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80 sec
Expected veteran participation in fiscal years 2025 and 2026
Council Member Holden asks about expected veteran participation in fiscal years 2025 and 2026, and Commissioner Hendon provides information on current and future projects. - Hendon mentions 31 different projects …
1:18:06
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49 sec
Advertising and outreach efforts for the Dwyer Program
Council Member Holden inquires about the advertising and outreach efforts for the Dwyer Program, and Commissioner Hendon details their current strategies. - Hendon mentions promoting the program at veteran public …
1:18:55
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38 sec
Effectiveness of advertising and future prospects for the Dwyer Program
Council Member Holden asks about the effectiveness of advertising for the Dwyer Program and potential for improvement with more funding. Commissioner Hendon responds, discussing current efforts and future prospects. - …
1:19:33
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37 sec
DVS's role in implementing the Dwyer Program
Council Member Holden inquires about DVS's role in implementing the Dwyer Program, particularly in relation to non-profits taking the lead. Commissioner Hendon explains DVS's responsibilities and future plans. - DVS …
1:20:11
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57 sec
Introduction of RTM therapy discussion and funding options
Council Member Holden introduces the topic of Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories (RTM) therapy for veterans with PTSD. He discusses previous budget proposals and a new intro for a feasibility study …
1:21:08
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77 sec
DVS perspective on implementing RTM therapy program
Commissioner Hendon provides DVS's perspective on implementing the RTM therapy program, discussing the pros and cons of different approaches. - Explains the challenges of conducting a feasibility study on a …
1:22:29
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121 sec
Council Member Holden's advocacy for RTM program implementation
Council Member Holden emphasizes the importance of implementing the RTM program and shares his perspective on its potential benefits for veterans. - Expresses willingness to pursue either funding path to …
1:24:30
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118 sec
Introduction of Cold War veterans property tax exemption discussion
Council Member Holden introduces the topic of real property tax exemption for Cold War veterans and asks about DVS's position on the matter. - Mentions Introduction 377 of 2022 and …
1:26:28
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88 sec
DVS position on Cold War veterans property tax exemption
Commissioner Hendon and Chief of Staff Alvarez provide DVS's position on extending property tax exemptions to Cold War veterans. - Commissioner Hendon expresses general support for the exemption - Clarifies …
1:27:55
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19 sec
Historical context of veterans property tax exemptions in New York City
Commissioner Hendon provides historical context for veterans property tax exemptions in New York City and explains why the Cold War veterans exemption hasn't been implemented yet. - Describes three types …
1:28:38
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79 sec
Clarification on Dwyer Program statistics and funding
Commissioner Hendon provides clarification on the Dwyer Program statistics and funding allocation. - Confirms 87 unique veterans served across five projects - Mentions plans for more detailed reporting in the …
1:29:57
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39 sec
Conclusion of the hearing and acknowledgments
Council Member Holden concludes the hearing and expresses gratitude to Commissioner Hendon and the DVS staff for their participation and dedication. - Thanks the commissioner and staff for their testimony …
1:30:37
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39 sec
Testimony by Ashton Stewart, Member of Veteran Advisory Board, Secretary of Saint Albans Board of Visitors, and Member of VFW Post 528
Ashton Stewart, a member of various veteran organizations, provided testimony on the importance of veteran mental health services and the challenges faced by aging veterans. He highlighted recent experiences with …
1:32:53
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3 min
Council member discusses potential of RTM therapy for veterans
Council Member Robert Holden discusses the potential benefits of Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories (RTM) therapy for veterans. He expresses optimism about the therapy's effectiveness and advocates for a $50,000 pilot …
1:36:12
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98 sec
Brief discussion on the impact of veteran mental health on families
Council Member Robert Holden and other participants briefly discuss the impact of veteran mental health issues on families. The exchange emphasizes the far-reaching effects of these issues beyond just the …
1:37:50
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15 sec
Testimony by Brian Ellicott Cook, Director of Government Relations at SAGE/SAGE Vets
Brian Ellicott Cook, representing SAGE and SAGE Vets, testified about the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ older adult veterans and requested continued support for their legal services initiative. He highlighted the …
1:38:08
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114 sec
Council member inquires about SAGE Vets' services and funding
Council Member Robert Holden inquires about SAGE Vets' services beyond their legal support, particularly focusing on medical and mental health services. Brian Ellicott Cook explains the organization's funding sources and …
1:40:03
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43 sec
Concerns raised about transgender veterans and importance of DVS funding
Brian Ellicott Cook highlights the increasing challenges faced by transgender veterans, including retraumatization due to political developments. Council Member Holden emphasizes the importance of funding for DVS and veteran programs …
1:40:46
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73 sec
Testimony by Peter Kempner, Legal Director of Volunteers of Legal Service, on Legal Services for Veterans
Peter Kempner, Legal Director of Volunteers of Legal Service, testified about the importance of free legal services for veterans, particularly those aged 60 and over. He emphasized the critical nature …
1:42:00
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142 sec
Discussion on funding needs for veterans' legal services
Council Member Holden and Peter Kempner discuss the current funding for legal services for veterans and the need for increased support. They agree that the current $600,000 allocation is insufficient. …
1:44:23
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56 sec
Holden's remarks on the comprehensive nature of veterans' services
Council Member Holden emphasizes the importance of regularly funding veterans' services programs and highlights that these services go beyond just legal assistance. He notes the comprehensive nature of the support …
1:45:19
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60 sec
Testimony by Joe Bello, Veterans Advocate
Joe Bello, a veterans advocate, provides critical testimony on the NYC Department of Veterans Services (DVS) budget and operations. He expresses concerns about the agency's stagnant budget, lack of transparency, …
1:46:50
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6 min
Discussion on DVS budget and effectiveness
Council Member Holden and Joe Bello discuss the Department of Veterans Services' budget constraints and effectiveness. They explore the need for honest conversations about DVS's capabilities given its limited resources. …
1:53:04
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93 sec
Mayor's stance on veterans' services and DVS funding
Council Member Holden and Joe Bello discuss the mayor's stance on veterans' services and DVS funding, expressing disappointment with the administration's approach. - They criticize the mayor's statement that the …
1:54:38
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161 sec
Suggestion for joint hearing on aging and veterans
Brian Ellicott Cook suggests holding a joint hearing for aging and veterans committees to address overlapping concerns. - Cook proposes combining efforts to address the needs of aging veterans and …
1:57:18
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39 sec
Concerns about the Dwyer program implementation
Joe Bello expresses concerns about the implementation of the Dwyer program, highlighting issues with funding allocation and transparency. - Bello notes discrepancies between the program's funding and actual programming - …
1:57:58
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102 sec
Testimony by Alicia Kershaw, Executive Director of GallopNYC
Alicia Kershaw, Executive Director of GallopNYC, testified about their therapeutic horseback riding program for people with disabilities, including veterans. She highlighted the program's impact on veterans' mental health and family …
2:00:31
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3 min
Testimony by Contessa Officer, Director of Veterans Program at VNS Health
Contessa Officer, Director of Veterans Program at VNS Health and a veteran herself, testified about the services provided by VNS Health's Veterans Program and requested increased funding to expand their …
2:03:55
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145 sec
Council member inquires about VNS Health's veteran services and funding
Council Member Robert Holden engages in a Q&A session with Contessa Officer about VNS Health's veteran services. They discuss the current funding, number of veterans served, and the potential impact …
2:06:22
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97 sec
Testimony by Coco Culhane, Executive Director of Veteran Advocacy Project, on Veterans Services Challenges and Recommendations
Coco Culhane, Executive Director of Veteran Advocacy Project, testified about current and potential challenges in veterans services, emphasizing the need for preparedness in light of uncertain federal funding and policy …
2:08:05
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5 min
Importance of Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) and funding challenges
Council Member Holden emphasizes the crucial role of Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) in supporting veterans and highlights the challenges they face, including closures and lack of understanding from city leaders …
2:13:08
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80 sec
Clarification on different types of Veteran Service Organizations
A brief exchange occurs between Council Member Holden and Coco Culhane to clarify the distinction between social VSOs and those handling benefits claims. Holden acknowledges the difference while reiterating the …
2:14:29
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32 sec
Testimony by Eric Lee, Director of Public Policy at Volunteers of America Greater New York
Eric Lee, representing Volunteers of America Greater New York, testified about their services for veterans and funding requests. He emphasized the importance of city council support given federal funding uncertainties …
2:15:03
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3 min
Council Member Holden inquires about Volunteers of America's funding request and services
Council Member Robert Holden asks Eric Lee from Volunteers of America Greater New York about their funding request increase from $74,000 to $100,000 and the number of veterans they serve. …
2:18:21
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27 sec
Testimony by Michael Inyosu on Cold War Veterans Property Tax Exemption
Michael Inyosu, a Cold War veteran, testified about the importance of including Cold War veterans in the property tax exemption program. He emphasized the financial impact this would have on …
2:19:33
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3 min
Discussion on Cold War veteran's service and tax exemption impact
Council Member Holden engages in a dialogue with Michael Inyosu, a Cold War veteran, about his military service and the potential impact of the proposed property tax exemption. They discuss …
2:23:19
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54 sec
Council member's support for Cold War veterans tax exemption bill
Council Member Holden expresses his support for the Cold War veterans property tax exemption bill, acknowledging the service of veterans like Michael Inyosu. - Holden states that four years of …
2:24:13
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34 sec
Testimony by Sharon Brown on Veterans' Budget and Support
Sharon Brown advocates for a significantly increased veterans' budget and improved support for veterans in various aspects of life, including housing, business opportunities, and overall care. She emphasizes the importance …
2:24:50
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131 sec
Testimony by Dr. Cleopatra Brown, Chairperson of Veterans Affairs Committee at Brooklyn Community Board 16
Dr. Cleopatra Brown, a Cold War veteran and Chairperson of Community Board 16's Veterans Affairs Committee, testified on the need to increase the veterans budget in New York City. She …
2:27:30
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4 min
Testimony by Tyler Levsen, Staff Attorney and Legal Research Adviser from Family Legal Care
Tyler Levsen from Family Legal Care testifies about the challenges veterans face in family courts and the services his organization provides. He emphasizes the importance of continued support from the …
2:32:12
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132 sec
Council member inquires about Family Legal Care's involvement in veteran treatment court
Council Member Robert Holden asks Tyler Levsen if Family Legal Care assists veterans in veteran treatment court. Levsen clarifies that their organization focuses solely on family court matters. - The …
2:34:25
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10 sec
Testimony by Christopher Leon Johnson, Member of the Public
Christopher Leon Johnson provides testimony advocating for funding allocation to the Worker Justice Project and the Street Vendor Project, emphasizing their work with veterans. He stresses the importance of protecting …
2:34:46
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127 sec