Liberty, NY – Sullivan County and the NYS Department of Health (NYSDOH) announce the pending closure of the Sullivan County Adult Care Center, known as the Care Center at Sunset Lake, in Liberty.
“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,” stated Legislature Chair Nadia Rajsz. “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.”
Per State requirements, NYSDOH has approved the County’s closure plan, enabling the transition process to begin for residents and staff. There are currently 93 long-term residents and 86 employees.
The County will be working closely with the NYS Department of Health and area nursing homes to find new accommodations for long-term Care Center clients. The County will ensure that no resident will be left without a skilled-care option.
The entire process is anticipated to conclude by the turn of the year.
Where possible, County employees will be offered the opportunity to transfer to other County jobs. Where this is not possible, the Center for Workforce Development will be assisting them in finding 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.”
Legislators and other County officials will determine what the most appropriate use of the building is in the future.
