I was extremely pleased that the Health Facilities Planning & Service Board voted to support the Governor’s proposal to close the Jacksonville Developmental Center today. I was amazed that the vote was 6 for closing and 1 opposed! Director Casey and Michael Gelder were outstanding defending the Rebalanding Initiative. I appreciated the excellent testimony of my fellow advocates especially Barbara Pritchard.This was the last vote on JDC so the closure is past its final review. As of today, 83 people remain at JDC.
I’m done for the night!
Tony
The Arc represents infants, children and adults with intellectual and other developmental disabilities.
The Arc believes that staff reports citing that State Board standards are not met is clearly flawed because the report does not full take into account Governor Pat Quinn’s Rebalancing Initiative to invest in community living options. This report supports the continued institutionalization at the expense of people with disabilities.
Members of the Board should vote to support the closing of Jacksonville because the administration has developed a comprehensive and progressive plan for closing Jacksonville Developmental Center. This plan could be a national model for institutional closures.
The Arc and other advocates have been calling for the rebalancing of the disability system for many years. We are committed to working with families at the state institutions to ensure a safe and meaningful transition into community living. There is no question that this is an emotional time for families. Read more.
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
