It’s About Time

Sorry to my consituents that I haven't posted on here in a while. I am not a big fan of social media. I don't have a twitter or facebook account. As such, I don't think much about it.

However, since I was elected last November I have been getting reacclimated to my position on the County Board. I think in general - outside the Nursing Home Discussion - the board has been pretty respectful and working well for the folks of Stephenson County.

After 5 months on the board and mainly digging into the Nursing Center issue - I must say I hole heartedly believe it would be best for the folks living at SNC and working there to be transferred to a privately owned situation. I don't believe SNC will ever have a good chance to succeed while still under County Oversight. I have many reasons for this decision and might put together a separate post with regard to that. I also recently completed a review of available facilities in and close to Stephenson County which resulted in my further belief that the market in this area is being overserved currently and there is plenty of availablility for low income folks - not just at SNC like many seem to believe.

Passions about keeping SNC a public instituion are high and I respect the desire some have to tale care of folks. However, I can't agree with the logic when it could be sold off and lilely be run much better than the way it's been managed by the county.

It's going to be a battle unfortunately and I am not sure anyone is going to be a winner if it keeps going the way it is. I am hopeful for my part to maintain more of a cool head about everything. In the end wether SNC is sold, closed, or continues to operate as is - I am and will be thankful for the opportunity to serve the folks of this county where I grew up!

Everything else seems to be running pretty smoothly as our department heads and staff are very capable and are doing a great job. In general outside the Nursing Home the budget is in good shape. I am hopeful we can soon move on from our focus on SNC and begin to see how we can move the county forward in other ways. It has also been a pleasure to be back on the board with those I served with previously like Mr Newton and Mr Hadley and all of the many new folks. I am also glad Brian Brandt was available to serve the folks in Dirstict I when Mr Diddens resigned.

I will try to post this more regularly with updates in the future.

If you have questions comments or concerns do not hesitate to send me an email of call.

Be Blessed,

Tim