State Representative Charlie Meier (R-Okawville) isn’t happy with major reductions to operations at the Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center in Anna that will result in what the AFSCME union says will be the loss of 250 jobs over the next few months.
In a statement, Meier says for years, the Illinois Department of Human Services promised families, employees, legislators, and taxpayers that it was committed to improving Choate. He notes tens of millions of taxpayer dollars were invested to renovate the facility and strengthen care. Now, Meier says the very agency that made those promises is walking away from them.
“My first concern is for the residents of Choate and their families. These are some of Illinois’ most vulnerable citizens, and they deserve stability, quality care, and the assurance that their loved ones will continue receiving safe, compassionate services. Families deserve answers about why IDHS believes reducing services and relocating residents is a better solution than following through on its commitment to improve Choate.
“IDHS also owes taxpayers and legislators an explanation for their lies. After investing millions of public dollars into Choate and promising a stronger future for the facility, the agency is now abandoning that investment while leaving hundreds of dedicated employees and Southern Illinois communities to deal with the consequences. That is not responsible government, and it is unacceptable.
“I am calling on IDHS to immediately halt these reductions, meet with residents’ families, employees, local officials, and legislators, and present a transparent plan that protects Choate’s residents, honors the commitments made to Southern Illinois, and respects the taxpayers who paid for these improvements.”
The IDHS has been reducing the number of developmentally disabled residents in recent years due to ongoing issues with resident abuse, neglect, and failure by employees and administrators to report or stop misconduct.
