If money is the issue preventing the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans paying for a license to reinstate guest meals, State Rep. Winnie Brinks' wallet is open.
"It appears from the news coverage, because I can't get a response at this point, that there's some sort of lack of money to pay the (licensing) fee," said Brinks, D-Grand Rapids. "I don't see how $530 is a problem.
"I can take care of that between me, Rep. (Brandon) Dillon and folks who care about this. We could probably take care of that in 20 minutes."
The home's residents and their families were notified in mid-May the cafeteria's meal service would be restricted to people who live there. If family members wished to eat a meal with a resident, they'd have to bring their own food.
The policy change came after a federal Veteran Affairs survey found the Grand Rapids veterans home not in compliance with its operating license. In fact, at least 11 years had gone by without the proper certification to use the facility's cafeteria to serve guests. The Grand Rapids home has operated without a license to serve guests since April 29, 2004.
Suzanne Thelen, spokeswoman for the Michigan Department of Veterans Affairs, reiterated Wednesday that a decision whether to pay $530-580 annually to Kent County for a license would come at a June 19 board of managers meeting.