Aguadilla mayor announces signing of Veterans’ Bill of Rights.

Aguadilla Mayor Julio Roldán Concepción said Memorial Day, which honors those who gave their lives in military service, was the best time to announce the recent signing of the Veterans’ Bill of Rights in his municipality.

By THE STAR STAFF

Aguadilla Mayor Julio Roldán Concepción announced on Monday the official signing of the Aguadilla Veterans’ Bill of Rights.

Municipal Ordinance No. 95 makes Aguadilla a pioneer in the island’s western region by establishing expanded protections and benefits for veterans and their families.

The mayor said Memorial Day, which honors those who gave their lives in military service, was the best time to announce the recent signing of the Veterans’ Bill of Rights in his municipality.

“In Aguadilla we have begun to do justice to those who deserve it,” he said. “Aguadilla is once again at the forefront with a Bill of Rights that recognizes, protects and honors our national heroes, who defended peace and democracy with their lives in the common defense with the United States.”

Roldán Concepción pointed out that Puerto Rico enjoys a democratic society grounded in law and order thanks to the courage and sacrifice of veterans.

“Our veterans are the greatest advocates for freedom, justice, and happiness we enjoy today,” he said. “While other countries suffer from dictatorial and repressive governments, we have a free and democratic country thanks to those who have fought for our collective well-being.”

The mayor said the municipality’s Bill of Rights for the veteran is more comprehensive than the commonwealth’s version.

“Our bill of rights establishes protections and benefits that exceed those offered by the state government and by other municipalities …” Roldán Concepción said.

Among them:

* Priority on municipal property — Every veteran will have priority in the acquisition of municipal property.

* Educational access — Veterans’ dependents will have priority when applying for enrollment in the municipal education system.

* Educational leave — Any veteran employed by the municipality may apply for educational leave to continue his or her education.

* Health services — Priority will be given when requesting services from the municipality’s Mobile Medical Unit.

* Benefits for dependents with disabilities — Children or dependents with disabilities will receive the same benefits.

* Extension of rights to children of fallen veterans — Until they reach the age of majority, or without limit if they have functional diversity.

* Priority in municipal employment — All things being equal, the veteran will have priority.

* Free access to recreational facilities — Includes the Aguadilla Shark Roller Rink, Discovery Bay Paddle Boat Park and other facilities.

* Construction tax exemption — For work on a veteran’s primary residential property.

* Reserved parking — Two veteran-only spaces are established in the town’s urban area.

“We will continue to work tirelessly on behalf of our veterans,” the mayor said.