Codington County Veterans Office Reports Rising Claims, $547K in Retroactive Payments and Lower 2027 Budget

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - Codington County Veteran Service Officer Jay Roberts delivered his monthly report Tuesday, outlining continued growth in veteran claims activity and presenting a 2027 budget proposal that reflects a reduction in county expenses.

Roberts told commissioners the office currently has 126 open claims for Codington County veterans, with 49 pending action from the VA and 155 completed so far this year. In Hamlin County, the office is managing 20 open claims, six pending, and has completed 20 to date. Eleven veterans from outside the two counties are also receiving assistance, with five claims completed so far in 2026.

Financial impacts from those claims continue to rise. Roberts reported $16,273 in new monthly increases to veteran compensation, bringing the year‑to‑date total to $98,339. Retroactive payments saw a substantial jump as well, with $82,674 added in June and $547,673 total so far this year.

The office transported one veteran to Sioux Falls for medical care last month and has two transports scheduled for July. Roberts said he continues to seek volunteer drivers while encouraging veterans to use the VA’s Veterans Transportation Service when possible.

2027 Budget Shows 8.26% Decrease

Roberts presented a sharply reduced budget request for 2027, noting an 8.26% overall decrease compared to the current year. He attributed the savings primarily to personnel changes: the hiring of second VSO Eric Lewis, a military retiree with Tricare coverage, eliminated the need for county‑funded health insurance.

A planned relocation of the Veteran Service Office to a smaller space will also reduce costs for utilities, insurance, and internet service.

Roberts said personnel service lines alone show a reduction of $178,978. Travel costs remain unchanged.

Projected revenue includes $13,000 from Hamlin County and $4,813 in state salary reimbursement, totaling $17,813.

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