LIBERTY, NY — Sullivan County and the New York State Department of Health have announced the pending closure of the Sullivan County Adult Care Center, known as the Care Center at Sunset Lake.
In a statement released Wednesday, County Legislature Chair Nadia Rajsz said the decision follows the County’s financial challenges and the inability to transfer operations to its consulting firm.
“This is not something the County wanted to do, but our challenging finances and the lack of ability to transfer operations to our consulting firm has left us no choice but to initiate the closure process,” Rajsz stated. “The majority of my colleagues and I agreed that taxpayers cannot afford to continue the costly operation of the Care Center while facing enormous revenue losses and quickly increasing costs throughout County government.”
The New York State Department of Health has approved the County’s closure plan, allowing the transition process for residents and staff to begin. The Care Center currently has 93 long-term residents and 86 employees.
The County said it will work with NYSDOH and area nursing homes to identify new accommodations for the Care Center’s long-term residents. According to the County, no resident will be left without a skilled-care option.
The transition is anticipated to conclude by the end of the year.
For employees, the County said that, where possible, staff will be offered opportunities to transfer to other County positions. When transfers are not possible, the Center for Workforce Development will assist employees in seeking other employment.
“The entire Legislature is very proud of the dedicated care County employees have provided over many years to many people,” Rajsz remarked. “To our residents and their families, we regret the challenges this may create, but we are committed to ensuring everyone has alternate skilled-care options from which to choose. Our staff will make this process as safe, smooth and clear as possible.”
County legislators and other officials say they will determine the most appropriate future use of the Care Center building.
This is a developing story.
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