The quarterly Iowa Commission of Veterans Affairs meeting Wednesday was filled with questions for answers and calls for transparency all regarding the former Iowa Veterans Home Commandant, Matthew Peterson.  Peterson, who served as the commandant for approximately 13 months and as the director of the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs for only 4 months, abruptly submitted his resignation in early September.  Many are questioning the circumstances surrounding his departure.  Before the floor was opened to public comment, Adam Steen, who has been serving as the interim IDVA director since Peterson’s resignation said they have frozen hiring at the VA until the commandant position is filled. One individual in the audience asked if the commandant candidates speak with anyone outside of the governor’s office, such as veterans or the IVH Residents Council before being selected, and Steen said that he was unaware of any official process for that.  Steen said he has been “in regular communication” with the governors office, who is currently accepting resumes for the vacant position.

Zach Tomesch, KFJB News Reporter