City Council - Veterans, Military Families, & Military Affairs Committee Hearing on Docket #1775

October 9, 2025
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City Council - Veterans, Military Families, & Military Affairs Committee Hearing on Docket #1775

Meeting Date: October 09, 2025 at 10:00 AM

Governing Body: Boston City Council - Veterans, Military Families, & Military Affairs Committee

Type of Meeting: Emergency Hearing

Attendees:

  • Councilors: Edward Flynn (Chair), Julia Mejia, Erin Murphy, John Fitzgerald, Benjamin Weber, Ruthzee Louijeune (Council President)
  • State Senator: Lydia Edwards
  • Panelists:
    • Robert Santiago, Commissioner of Veterans Services, City of Boston
    • Craig Diold, State Senior Vice Commander, Department of Massachusetts Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
    • Charlie Cook, Commander, Chapter 3 of Boston, Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
    • Dennis Devine, Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
    • Haywood Fennell, Triad Veterans League
    • Warren Manigault, Vice President of Operations and Facilities Management, New England Center and Home for Veterans
  • City Staff: Shane Pack (Central Staff Liaison), Ethan (Video)

Executive Summary: The City Council's Veterans, Military Families, & Military Affairs Committee convened an emergency hearing to address the potential impacts of the ongoing federal government shutdown on Boston's veterans, military members, and their families. Discussions highlighted concerns regarding potential disruptions to federal benefits, healthcare services, and financial stability for active-duty personnel. The City of Boston Veterans Services, in collaboration with various veteran service organizations and city departments, outlined contingency plans and local support mechanisms, including the "Bridge the Gap" program and expedited state-level relief, to mitigate the shutdown's effects. The committee emphasized the importance of inter-agency and community collaboration to ensure continuous support for the veteran community.

I. Opening Remarks

  • Councilor Edward Flynn (Chair):

    • Opened the hearing at 10:09 AM.
    • Stated the hearing is on Docket #1775, an emergency order to discuss the impact of the ongoing government shutdown on Boston veterans, military families, and military members.
    • Noted the hearing is sponsored by himself, Councilor Julia Mejia, and Councilor Erin Murphy, and was referred to the committee on October 1, 2025.
    • Announced that public testimony would be taken at the end of the hearing, with extended time for veterans to speak.
    • Acknowledged Shane Pack, City Council Central Staff liaison and U.S. Navy Reserve member.

  • Councilor Erin Murphy:

    • Thanked Councilor Flynn for his advocacy for veterans.
    • Expressed concern about potential service interruptions for veterans, including her 91-year-old stepdad receiving VA healthcare and her son, an active-duty service member, who is concerned about the October 15th paycheck.
    • Emphasized the need to understand the situation to advocate effectively for veterans.

II. Panel Introductions and Opening Statements

  • Commissioner Robert Santiago (City of Boston Veterans Services):

    • Thanked Councilors Flynn and Murphy for their service and advocacy.
    • Stated that when Washington stalls, veterans often feel the impact first and hardest, particularly concerning federal benefits like VA payments and housing vouchers.
    • Announced that Boston Veterans Services has activated a local response to offer shutdown support, emergency assistance, city resources, and information about community partners.
    • Highlighted coordination with the Mayor's Office of Housing and Boston Housing Authority to monitor federal housing programs.
    • Mentioned working with the Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans Services to expedite state-level relief, such as Mass General Law Chapter 115.
    • Emphasized Boston's commitment to ensuring veterans receive earned benefits and services, stating, "While Washington may be closed, Boston Veterans Services is open."

  • Craig Diold (State Senior Vice Commander, Department of Massachusetts VFW):

    • Thanked Councilors Flynn and Murphy for the opportunity to speak.
    • Identified himself as a resident of Boston and a constituent of Councilor Flynn.
    • Stated the VFW's commitment to ensuring veterans' hard-earned benefits are not lost, regardless of federal or state actions.
    • Emphasized the collaborative partnership with Commissioner Santiago and the City Department of Veterans Services.
    • Stressed that veterans' benefits are "hard-earned benefits" akin to workers' compensation, not "charitable donations."
    • Expressed concern for National Guard troops and active-duty personnel, noting inquiries about potential financial assistance if paychecks are delayed on October 15th.
    • Affirmed the VFW's readiness to hold all levels of government accountable.

  • Charlie Cook (Commander, Chapter 3 of Boston, DAV):

    • Thanked the committee for the hearing.
    • Expressed concern that new veterans applying for benefits would be "put on the back burner" and face processing delays due to the shutdown.
    • Called for national organizations to advocate to Congress to end the shutdown and prevent backlogs.
    • Affirmed DAV's commitment to working with the City of Boston.

  • Dennis Devine (DAV):

    • Recalled a conversation about the past ability of political leaders to work together, contrasting it with current national political divisions.
    • Stated his personal commitment to ensuring no veteran is left behind, particularly in inner-city communities, by assisting with claims for earned benefits.

  • Haywood Fennell (Triad Veterans League):

    • Thanked the committee for the meeting.
    • Stated that veterans' commitment to service "never goes down."
    • Described the shutdown as an "affront" to veterans who have earned their benefits.
    • Highlighted Triad Veterans League's work in literacy, mental health, and re-entry programs for incarcerated veterans.
    • Expressed appreciation for Commissioner Santiago's work and looked forward to continued partnership.
    • Mentioned the issue of "bad paper" discharges, where gay and lesbian service members were discharged for behavioral issues, limiting their benefits.

  • Senator Lydia Edwards (State Senator, National Guard Officer):

    • Thanked Councilor Flynn for the invitation.
    • Shared her experience as a "military brat" and current National Guard officer, emphasizing how shutdowns directly impact the quality of life for military families, including housing allowances (BAH).
    • Noted that during a previous JAG School session, classmates worried about financial impacts on their families.
    • Suggested state and city-level solutions, including the state's Veteran Equity Review Board (VERB) for wrongfully discharged veterans (expanded beyond LGBTQ+ to include racial and gender discrimination) to reinstate state-level benefits.
    • Proposed creating a city version of the VERB for city benefits.
    • Mentioned the HERO Act allowing cities and towns to reserve 10% of affordable housing for veterans, suggesting Boston adopt this as a "shutdown proof" measure.

  • Councilor John Fitzgerald:

    • Expressed respect for military service and acknowledged his lack of direct military experience.
    • Stated his presence was to learn how the Council could be helpful and supportive to veterans.

  • Warren Manigault (New England Center and Home for Veterans):

    • Thanked Councilors Flynn and Murphy, Senator Edwards, Commissioner Santiago, and Mayor Wu for their leadership and partnership.
    • Stated that the New England Center and Home for Veterans does not anticipate immediate interruption of federal funding from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
    • Maintained close contact with VA Boston leadership and other government partners.
    • Expressed vigilance regarding secondary impacts of an extended shutdown, such as housing instability, effects on other federal services, and anxiety within the veteran community.
    • Affirmed commitment to ensuring veterans receive services with dignity and stability.

III. Questions and Answers

  • Councilor Erin Murphy:

    • Asked about potential gaps or delays in services and what the Council could do to step in.
    • Commissioner Santiago's Response:
      • Stated the City of Boston is prepared with a "playbook" from prior shutdowns, utilizing state benefits (Chapter 115) and the "Bridge the Gap" program.
      • Discussed working with the Executive Office of Veterans Services (EOVS) to expedite Chapter 115 applications and potentially waive some requirements.
      • Highlighted the issue of VA claims processing stopping at the federal level, creating new backlogs.
      • Provided a list of impacted VA services during a shutdown:
        • Transition program assistance and career counseling.
        • Call centers for VA GI Bill and National Cemetery Applicant Assistant Hotlines.
        • VA Benefits Regional Offices (processing VA claims).
        • Public affairs and outreach (social media, emails, press inquiries).
        • Grounds maintenance and placement of permanent headstones at VA cemeteries (e.g., Bourne National Cemetery).
        • Applications for pre-need burial at VA cemeteries.
        • Printing of new presidential memorial certificates.
        • Outreach to state, county, tribal, municipal, faith-based, and community partners by VA central office.
      • Provided a list of unimpacted VA services:
        • VA medical centers, outpatient clinics, and Vet Centers (open as usual).
        • VA benefits (compensation, pension, education, housing) already approved.
        • Burials at VA National Cemeteries.
        • Applications for headstones, markers, and burial benefits processing.
        • VA primary call center (1-800-MIC-VA-411) and Veterans Crisis Hotline (988-PRESS-1) (open 24/7).
        • Suicide Prevention Program, Homelessness Services, and Caregiver Support.
    • Councilor Murphy's Follow-up: Asked for advice on how Councilors can be better allies and connect constituents to resources.
    • Commissioner Santiago's Response: Emphasized the "no veteran is left behind" philosophy, warm handoffs to other municipalities, and the crucial support of partners like the New England Center, DAV, VFW, American Legion, and Triad Veterans League. Suggested directing people to his office or online resources like VFWMA.org and DAVMA.org.
    • Councilor Murphy's Closing Remark: Advocated for increased funding for the Commissioner's office, noting its reliance on other agencies and the need for additional support during a shutdown.

  • Councilor John Fitzgerald:

    • Asked about ways to amplify the veteran's voice against the shutdown and how the Council could help.
    • Haywood Fennell's Response: Suggested media involvement (TV programs, Channel 8) to raise awareness about veterans' needs and services provided by organizations like DAV, VFW, and Triad.
    • Charlie Cook's Response: Highlighted the national advocacy efforts of DAV, particularly with Coleman Nee as National Commander, urging all states to pressure Congress to resolve the shutdown.
    • Craig Diold's Response:
      • Stated the VFW's Washington D.C. office remains active, engaging with congressional delegations and testifying before Congress.
      • Mentioned the VFW's fall legislative conference where representatives from across the country advocated against harming veterans' benefits.
      • Emphasized the strong, cross-pollinated network of veteran organizations in Boston, allowing for effective referrals and support.
      • Warned that Boston's budget decisions regarding veterans' services could influence other cities and towns across the Commonwealth.
    • Senator Lydia Edwards' Response:
      • Reiterated the state's Veteran Equity Review Board (VERB) for wrongfully discharged veterans, allowing them to access state-level benefits.
      • Proposed a city-level equivalent to review wrongful discharges for city benefits (e.g., civil service, housing).
      • Mentioned the HERO Act's provision for cities to reserve 10% of affordable housing for veterans, suggesting Boston adopt this.
    • Councilor Fitzgerald's Closing Remark: Suggested the Council draft a letter to Congress, advocating for veterans and urging an end to the shutdown.

  • Councilor Julia Mejia:

    • Asked Commissioner Santiago about immediate impacts on his office, emergency measures, the safety net, and which other city departments could help. Also asked what the City Council could do.
    • Commissioner Santiago's Response:
      • Reiterated that "it takes a village" involving all partners (VSOs, city departments like BCYF, Age Strong Commission, returning citizens programs).
      • Stated the City Council's role is to elevate the issue, broadcast information, and support events.
    • Councilor Mejia's Follow-up: Asked advocates about top concerns (housing, food insecurity, benefits) and how the city could better partner with community-based organizations.
    • Haywood Fennell's Response:
      • Suggested engaging "corporate America" and veterans within corporations for strategic development and funding for veteran services.
      • Highlighted the lack of cultural sensitivity at the VA, leading some veterans to seek services elsewhere.
      • Advocated for a panel discussion from Boston to involve corporate America in supporting veterans.
    • Dennis Devine's Response: Emphasized mental health concerns, particularly the risk of suicide among veterans due to financial stress from delayed checks.
    • Haywood Fennell's Further Response:
      • Stressed the need to rethink strategies for mental health, incarceration, and re-entry programs for veterans.
      • Mentioned Triad's re-entry program with Northeastern University School of Law and efforts to address suicide ideation.
      • Advocated for a "gathering of veterans" to discuss issues like "gay discharges."
    • Craig Diold's Response:
      • Stated that all issues (financial, food, housing, mental health) are interconnected.
      • Emphasized that financial insecurity exacerbates anxiety and mental health issues, potentially increasing suicide risk.
      • Advocated for fully funding Commissioner Santiago's department.
      • Highlighted the strong, accessible network of local VFW, DAV, and American Legion posts as crucial community resources.
    • Dennis Devine's Further Response: Mentioned the DAV's year-long wait for state approval to re-enter prisons to assist incarcerated veterans with benefits.

  • Councilor Benjamin Weber:

    • Asked Commissioner Santiago about funding sources for filling gaps if federal funding is cut.
    • Commissioner Santiago's Response: Stated the city budget is not directly affected by federal cuts. Reaffirmed the "Bridge the Gap" program and ongoing discussions with the state regarding Chapter 115 waivers and expedited applications.
    • Haywood Fennell's Response: Expressed confidence that if he proposes needs, they will be seriously considered for funding or resources.
    • Councilor Weber's Follow-up: Asked about the impact of political rhetoric and military deployment within the homeland on veterans.
    • Craig Diold's Response:
      • Stated the VFW is apolitical but emphasized the importance of treating veterans with respect and ensuring earned benefits.
      • Warned that political events and deployments within the homeland could increase anxiety and trigger PTSD in veterans.
      • Noted that lingering effects on service members from these deployments could lead to future disability claims, even for non-combat injuries.

  • Council President Ruthzee Louijeune:

    • Asked Commissioner Santiago if he felt confident about the continuity of care and services.
    • Commissioner Santiago's Response: Affirmed confidence due to the support of VSOs, city departments, and the City Council.
    • Council President Louijeune's Follow-up: Asked if there was widespread panic among veterans regarding the shutdown.
    • Commissioner Santiago's Response: Stated no widespread panic yet, but veterans are concerned about the unknown, particularly the October 15th paycheck.
    • Craig Diold's Response: Confirmed no panic but many questions. Highlighted the use of trusted social media sources and cross-organizational networks to disseminate information. Expressed concern for National Guard troops and active-duty personnel regarding the October 15th paycheck and the VFW's readiness to provide relief efforts (food, clothing, housing) if needed.

IV. Final Questions and Contact Information

  • Councilor Flynn:
    • Confirmed with Commissioner Santiago that October 15th is the potential date for military pay disruption.
    • Suggested an offline conversation with Commissioner Santiago about forming a working group to support Coast Guard and other active-duty families in Boston.
    • Asked about the impact of the shutdown on counseling services for military sexual trauma (MST) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
    • Commissioner Santiago's Response: Stated that VA medical centers, outpatient clinics, and Vet Centers, including mental health and PTSD services, are not expected to be impacted. The Veterans Crisis Hotline (988-PRESS-1) will remain open 24/7.
    • Haywood Fennell's Response: Suggested using data from the VA and community-based organizations to track and analyze services for veterans, especially those who don't access the VA directly.
    • Dennis Devine's Response: Emphasized the need to track incarcerated veterans to connect them with services upon release.
    • Councilor Flynn: Offered to follow up with the State Department of Correction regarding the DAV's request to re-enter prisons. Commissioner Santiago expressed willingness to join.
    • Councilor Flynn: Asked all panelists to provide their names and contact information for public access.
      • Dennis Devine: Senior Vice Commander, Department of Massachusetts DAV. Cell: 508-400-0328. Email: franden68@gmail.com.
      • Haywood Fennell: Triad Veterans League, Boston. Phone: 857-204-5312.
      • Craig Diold: State Senior Vice Commander, VFW. Cell: 781-738-2498. Email: cdeold@vfwma.org.
      • Robert Santiago: Commissioner of Veterans Services, City of Boston. Email: robert.santiago@boston.gov. Phone: 617-635-3037.
      • Charlie Cook: Commander, Chapter 3 of Boston, DAV. Email: charliecook48@msn.com. Phone: 617-433-0884.
      • Councilor Edward Flynn: Email: ed.flynn@boston.gov. Cell: 617-820-8571.

V. Closing Statements

  • Councilor Erin Murphy:

    • Thanked Councilor Flynn for scheduling the emergency hearing quickly.
    • Reiterated concerns for active-duty personnel and veterans.
    • Asked Commissioner Santiago to briefly discuss military benefits related to arthritis.
    • Commissioner Santiago's Response: Highlighted the Arthritis Foundation's work, noting that 1 in 3 veterans suffer from arthritis, often due to service-related activities. Mentioned an upcoming webinar in November with national VA leaders.

  • Councilor Julia Mejia:

    • Thanked Councilor Flynn for chairing and the panelists for their advocacy.
    • Emphasized the importance of hearing from those directly impacted.
    • Supported Councilor Fitzgerald's idea of a letter from the Council to Congress.

  • Councilor Benjamin Weber:

    • Thanked Councilor Flynn for filing the hearing and highlighting veterans' needs.
    • Pledged support for Councilor Flynn's leadership in supporting veterans.

  • Council President Ruthzee Louijeune:

    • Thanked Councilor Flynn and all panelists for their work and service.
    • Acknowledged the deep local impact of national issues.
    • Expressed appreciation for the Commissioner's preparedness and the collective efforts to "stand in the gap."

  • Dennis Devine: Invited everyone to the DAV's 5K event at Castle Island on November 8th.

  • Haywood Fennell: Thanked the City of Boston for its concern and the opportunity to speak for veterans, expressing anticipation for results and continued collaboration.

  • Craig Diold:

    • Thanked the Council for its leadership and preparedness.
    • Reiterated that veterans, though no longer in uniform, continue to serve each other through advocacy.
    • Expressed confidence that Boston will remain a leader in veteran care.

  • Commissioner Robert Santiago:

    • Expressed pride in being at the table with fellow veterans.
    • Emphasized that advocacy is about "call to action," citing successful efforts like the HERO Act (Massachusetts) and PACT Act (federal).
    • Commended Mayor Wu and her administration for their fierce advocacy for veterans.
    • Stated his responsibility to continue working with the veteran community and city leadership.

  • Charlie Cook: Thanked everyone for the invitation and opportunity to speak, praising Boston as a great city.

  • Councilor Edward Flynn (Chair):

    • Thanked all participants, including Senator Edwards.
    • Reiterated the purpose of the emergency hearing: to discuss the impact of the federal government shutdown on Boston's veterans, military members, and families.
    • Stressed the importance of bridging gaps in services and supporting veterans' financial stability, food access, and overall well-being.
    • Thanked the City Council Central Staff team (Shane Pack and Ethan).
    • Motion: Adjourned the hearing on Docket #1775.

Last updated: Nov 15, 2025

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