Changes at Veterans Home?

Governor Chet Culver apparently has decided the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown needs new leadership.  The following statement was just issued:

STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR CULVER ON IOWA VETERANS HOME COMMANDANT

DES MOINES – Governor Chet Culver issued the following statement on the re-appointment of the Commandant of the Iowa Veterans Home:

“I appreciate the service Dan Steen has given to the State of Iowa as Commandant of the Iowa Veterans Home. We are grateful for his work leading our state’s facility to care for those who have served our nation.

“However, as Governor, I will not be submitting Mr. Steen’s name to the Senate to be re-appointed as Commandant. I am considering changes and improvements to how state government is organized to better meet the needs of our veterans. Those changes will mean new leadership at the Iowa Veterans Home, and I look forward to working with the legislature and the veterans’ community on this issue.”

Statement from Senator Steven Sodders (D-State Center) Regarding decision by Governor Culver to not reappoint Commandant at Iowa Veterans Home

“I want to thank Commandant Dan Steen for his years of service to the residents and staff at the Iowa Veterans Home. I have appreciated the opportunity to work with Dan on several pieces of legislation this session that will improve the level of services to the residents of the Iowa Veterans Home.

“I look forward to working with Governor Culver and Lt. Governor Judge — as well as the staff and residents in Marshalltown — on changes that will improve services and accountability at the Iowa Veterans Home.”

STATEMENT FROM STATE REPRESENTATIVE MARK SMITH (D-MARSHALLTOWN) ON IOWA VETERANS HOME CHANGES
 
"I wish Commandant Steen all the best in the future.  I will continue my call for an independent review of how services are provided at the Iowa Veterans Home.
 
My top priority will continue to be ensuring the residents of the Iowa Veterans Home receive the best care while ensuring our tax dollars are spent wisely."

Background:  Steen has been commandant for nearly four years (his term's up on May 1, 2009).  He took over from Jack Dack who had been the commandant for 30 years.