The board is hereby authorized to establish offices and employ an adequate staff to serve the citizens of Mississippi as it deems necessary; and the expenses of such offices shall be included within the administrative cost limitation prescribed in Section 35-7-9. The board may utilize the services of county veterans service officers and other such persons in contact with the veteran community to advise and assist the board; however, such persons assisting shall not be employees nor officially represent the board, and shall perform their services without cost to the board.