I need you to take action on this important matter by noon on Thursday. Please pass this Action Alert on to other advocates.I recommend you send your comments by email below. Your statement can be a simple as, “We support the closing of Murray Developmental Center.” You can also add a personal story about this is not the services we had in mind, etc…

Tony

On Friday April 20, 2012, at 3:00 p.m. the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (COGFA) will hold a public hearing on the recommended closure of Warren G. Murray Developmental Center.  The hearing will be held  in the Centralia High School Gymnasium, 2100 East Calumet Street, Centralia, IL 62801.
 
It is very important that COGFA hear from as many individuals and organizations as possible that we support the closure of Murray DC as part of the State’s plan to rebalance the system towards increased community-based services for people with disabilities.  The opponents to the closure are well-organized and working hard to ensure their voices are heard (Well over 100 opponents have already posted comments on COGFA’s website).  We must work even harder to make sure our support for the closure of Murray DC is communicated to COGFA loudly and clearly.
 
How can we let the members of COGFA know that closing Murray DC is the right thing to do?
 
1. By e-mail to:
facilityclosure@ilga.gov
 
2. Submit written comments or testimony
 
By mail to:
Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability
ATTN: Facility Closure
703 Stratton Building
Springfield, IL 62706
 
 3. Attend the hearing on April 20, 2012
 
4. Testify at the hearing on April 20, 2012 (either orally or in writing) To testify at the hearing, you should register in advance by mailing or e-mailing COGFA or by calling Donna Belknap at 217-782-5322.
 
There is strength in numbers!  Show your support for the closure of Murray DC by submitting written comments or testimony, attending the hearing and/or testifying at the hearing.  Please forward this alert to other interested parties and groups and urge them to take action as well.  Thank you.
 
Cheryl R. Jansen
Legislative Director
Equip for Equality 


Tony Paulauski
Executive Director
The Arc of Illinois
20901 S. LaGrange Rd. Suite 209
Frankfort, IL 60423
815-464-1832 (OFFICE)
815-464-1832 (CELL)
Tony@www.thearcofil.org