SAN ANTONIO – Recently, Keith Wilson, the former director of the Bexar County Military and Veterans Services, was fired in what many are calling a controversial decision. Wilson, a retired U.S. Army lieutenant colonel, led the agency since 2022 and claims that his termination was based on a flawed investigation.
His dismissal on March 10 raised eyebrows when supporters voiced their frustrations. They were unhappy that the county commissioners voted on Wilson’s termination before they had a chance to speak in his defense. “Military City U.S.A., I’ll be damned,” said veteran advocate Stephen Price, highlighting the sentiment among those who believed Wilson deserved a fair hearing.
Despite the controversy, the commissioners voted 4-0 to terminate Wilson, appointing Calvin Henry as the interim director. Commissioner Grant Moody expressed disappointment, acknowledging Wilson’s contributions: “I really appreciate the work that Keith has done to support veterans in our community.”
Background of the Controversy
The issues surrounding Wilson began last fall when his deputy director, Nancy Taguacta, retired after serious allegations of misconduct were substantiated against her. An investigation found she had targeted employees with disabilities and fostered a hostile work environment. Wilson was later put on a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP), which he contested, stating it contained inaccuracies.
While on paid administrative leave, the county initiated an external investigation into Wilson’s conduct. The findings, released recently, indicated that several allegations against him were substantiated, including unauthorized sharing of confidential employee records and being confrontational in his demeanor.
Reactions and Support for Wilson
Wilson’s supporters have rallied around him, emphasizing the positive impact he had on veterans’ services in Bexar County. Under Wilson’s leadership, the department expanded significantly, growing from two locations to ten across the county, which he argues was necessary to better serve the community. His sister, Stacy Stracener, highlighted the importance of being out in the community and questioned the investigation’s conclusions.
In a letter, the leadership of the South Texas Veterans Health Care System praised Wilson for strengthening partnerships and improving collaboration on veteran needs. They stated, “Mr. Wilson’s integrity, leadership, and commitment make him an invaluable partner to the South Texas Veterans Health Care System and to the broader Veteran community.”
Currently, Wilson is contesting his firing and has filed two charges against the county with the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. He emphasizes the importance of his role in keeping veterans supported and housed, stating, “I fear that all this turbulence and all this shakeup is going to cause some of those things to get lost.”
