Allyson Ballard reports from the Island County Board of Health meeting of Tue., Oct. 21, 2025 for the Whidbey News-Times. Read the whole story.
Summary by Perplexity.ai
Island County, where veterans comprise 17.6% of the population, has prioritized veteran support through its Veteran Service Officers and Veterans Assistance Fund. Deputy Director Bill Larsen reported that 86% of claims filed with officer help are approved, compared to just 25% of self-filed claims. These programs brought $5.1 million in benefits and back pay to local veterans in 2025. The Assistance Fund provides emergency help—fuel, food, utilities, and burials—totaling $91,000 this year for 122 veterans and their families. Larsen emphasized that the goal is self-sufficiency, and commissioners praised the programs’ growth and positive local economic impact.
They Said It
In the presentation to the commissioners, Larsen thanked them for supporting the programs that do so much to assist veterans. Commissioner Janet St. Clair noted how much the programs have grown in recent years.
Ed. Note: Larsen is also a commissioner at the North Whidbey Pool, Park and Recreation District.
