WEST OLIVE, Mich. -- Ottawa County is breaking ground on their first-ever dedicated facility for veteran services. This marks a historic milestone in the county's effort to improve how local veterans access critical services.
A ceremony was held at the Fillmore Administration Complex with community members, veterans and local leaders in attendance. Ottawa County Commissioner Kendra Wenzel, Ottawa County Board of Commissioners Vice-Chair Josh Brugger and U.S. Representative Hillary Scholten all spoke about the significance of the project.
"I cannot overstate how proud I am that West Michigan remains relentlessly committed to honoring and serving our veterans," said Rep. Scholten. "It means so much to me to to stand here and recommit ourselves to supporting those who gave so much for our freedoms, and that's exactly what this facility will do."
The facility is slated to be completed this fall and will include private screening rooms for VA claims and benefit consultations, individual staff office to allow for more personalized service, a veteran lounge to foster community and connection, a self-help computer station for accessing benefits and resources and a fully equipped conference room for support groups, community events and outreach programming.
Director Jason Schenkel says long-term vision for the project and the new facility will help his team better serve those who have worn the uniform.
"This space is more than just walls and offices," said Schenkel. "It represents a promise: to our County, our department, our Veterans Committee and most importantly, to the Veterans and their families of Ottawa County."
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