The Commission shall have the following duties and responsibilities: Identify, analyze, and evaluate all programs and services in the State and County related specifically to the needs of veterans, and to promote the development of other services when a need for services is determined; Advise and counsel the residents of the County, the Council, the County Executive, and the various departments of County, State and Federal governments on matters involving the needs of veterans and to recommend such procedures, programs, or legislation as it may deem necessary and proper to promote and insure equal rights and opportunities for all veterans; Research, assemble, analyze, and disseminate pertinent data and educational materials relating to activities and programs which will assist in meeting the needs of veterans; Cooperate and promote with the County Veterans Affairs Service Center the development of an information and referral service for all services and programs for veterans; Institute and conduct educational and other programs, meetings, and conferences to promote equal rights and opportunities for veterans and cooperate with interested citizens, community, business, professional, technical, educational, and civic organizations; Hold such public forums or hearings as are necessary and appropriate to carry out the powers and duties of the Commission; and Commission members, through their coordination, planning and monitoring, shall help ensure that the continuum of services throughout the County remains efficient and effective.