Grey County Council is facing a tough decision on the future of its long term care homes.
Council has heard more information on the issue and county staff is recommending Grey Gables in Markdale and Rockwood Terrace in Durham amalgamate into a new facility in Durham. Grey Gables would be put up for sale, likely for use as a privately operated retirement home.
Council heard of the enormous cost of maintaining the status quo, however, Georgian Bluffs Mayor Barfoot says there's more at issue than money.
"Council has to see from a strategic point moving forward what's the best direction to go on this and what are the implications. Yes, one of the implications is the financial cost but are we serving those patients in the best manner moving forward," says Barfoot.
Whatever council decides, it will have enormous implications for both Markdale and Durham. Barfoot says it's unfortunate that the issue is pitting the two communities against other. He says councillors have a tough decision to make.
"Every once in awhile in politics you have an issue that comes forward that it's a no-win situation and this I put into that category," he says. "No matter what decision we make certainly some areas of the county are going to be happy with it, other areas are not."
Barfoot calls the decision one of the most important councillors will make for the future. Grey County Council is expected to make that decision at its meeting May 25.
Grey County Council talking about the future of long term care homes. (Photo by Kirk Scott)