I snickered when I learned that the Lehigh County Commissioners last week were getting ready to decide the fate of Cedarbrook Nursing Home. They already decided in 2011, when they started postponing any decision. Now, six years later, they have decided? The decision back then in 2011 was rather than say no to the county elders, and suffer the political consequences, they could keep postponing their decision with more and more studies. Along these many years I credit myself and Tom Mueller for speaking out against the charade.
By now Cedarbrook could have been renovated and turned profitable. Recently, at least one former commissioner took umbrage at me for pointing out the folly of another board. Over the years from attending meetings and advocating for one issue or another, I have become friendly with many of our commissioners. However, for me not to speak out against their collective shortcomings because of friendship or courtesy would negate both my activism and this blog. I choose to put these missions first, whether it be the parks or the elderly.
photocredit: K Mary Hess
Years ago we talked about Cedar Brook and it's irreplaceable role as a last line place of respite-for all kinds of disabled persons, elderly, even wards of the state. Cedar Brook has been the last, best refuge for the most vulnerable among us in Lehigh County. There are proven models for profitability and many medical rest-homes have adapted rehabilitation and short-stay wings as the strategy to remain solvent. With an historic property-an enormous facility that cannot be reproduced again, it is imperative to find a path to lead to the way to restore Cedar Brook. Attract investors, hire a reputable rehabilitation services vendor. There was money for downtown. There should be money for this, too.
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