Veterans rep: ‘Things seem to be getting a lot better’

The Veterans Memorial Building is getting a fresh coat of paint on the inside and an array of improvements throughout the historic structure.
The commander of the county’s American Legion chapter gave an update to Hollister council members Monday and told officials renovations are coming along well. Commander Joe Love also pointed out local veterans, after the repairs are done, can expect an improvement in services offered at the site.
“We’ve been working quite hard to get everything straightened out,” Love said Monday.
Council members in October unanimously approved a resolution to transfer management of the 87-year-old Veterans Memorial Building in downtown Hollister to the local chapters of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion. The deal allowed the veterans groups to manage and maintain the building, while the city agreed to pay $80,000 per year to the veterans for maintenance costs. Additionally, if repairs are needed and tally $5,000 or more, the city agreed to take up those costs, too.
At Monday’s meeting, Love mentioned the groups had painted the entryway and second-floor foyer, and worked on the two front offices. One office will be dedicated solely to the veterans services officer. 
“We’re planning to get more veterans services officers into the building,” Love said.
He said building space will be available for medical treatment purposes or for psychological issues.
“Things seem to be getting a lot better for the veterans here in the community,” Love said.
He said the volunteer-based organizations have a goal of finishing the inside paint job within three months. He said it is a fresh color with “warm” colors.
“At least your money’s being used in the right place,” he said.