FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — Fulton County leaders are working to connect military veterans with resources for healthcare, housing, employment and other needs.
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The county hosted a veterans roundtable at Georgia Tech in Midtown Atlanta, bringing together veterans and local, state and federal leaders to discuss issues affecting former service members.
Topics included housing, mental health and economic opportunities for veterans, including those transitioning from military service to civilian life.
Jack Norton, a Marine Corps veteran and business owner, spoke about the challenges veterans can face when entering the civilian workforce or starting a business.
“Veterans don’t necessarily leave the military with a business plan, but they do leave the military with a skill set,” Norton said.
He said connecting veterans with networking opportunities and available resources can help them use those skills to build careers and businesses.
The roundtable included Fulton County commissioners, Chief Judge Glanville, a veteran and retired Army general, U.S. Rep. Rich McCormick, who is also a veteran, and other elected officials.
During the event, Fulton County also unveiled a new veterans resource guide.
The guide includes an online hub designed to help veterans navigate available services, from accessing healthcare to starting a business
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Georgia veterans may also qualify for several tax breaks and other benefits.
Retired service members can qualify for the state’s retirement income exclusion, which allows eligible retirees to exclude up to $65,000 in retirement income, subject to eligibility requirements.
Veterans who are 100% disabled may qualify for a property tax exemption of up to $121,000, subject to applicable requirements.
Additionally, veterans may qualify for reduced business occupation fees.
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