November 11, 2011

State lawmakers passed a stop-gap supplemental appropriation on Nov. 29 to stall Gov. Pat Quinn’s proposed closure of seven state facilities, which would have put approximately 1,900 employees out of work.

The budget plan reallocates state revenues from other areas of state government, and redirects the money to finance the operation of the mental health facilities, developmentally disabled centers, and correctional facilities targeted for closure. The supplemental appropriation will finance operation of the facilities through the current fiscal year, which ends on June 30, 2012.

“I know this entire process has been grueling for both communities and for all individuals involved,” said State Sen. Dave Luechtefeld (R-Okawville), who represents communities housing two of the facilities targeted for closure—Chester Mental Health Center and Illinois Youth Center at Murphysboro.

Luechtefeld stressed that while he was pleased the facilities will remain open for now, he is going to continue working with area leaders on a long-term strategy.

“This is a victory for both communities; hopefully it will not be short-lived. The fight will go on, and it is possible that we will be back debating the same closures next year,” Luechtefeld concluded.

Prompted by the community upheaval and concern surrounding the proposed closures, State Sen. John O. Jones (R-Mt. Vernon) is calling for a long-term plan to govern the operation of Illinois facilities.

“Any time you introduce the idea of closing a facility, you potentially destroy any sense of normalcy for the residents, employees and patients,” Jones said. “It is essential that we are proactive instead of reactive to these facility closure proposals. I want to work with all interested parties to seek a solution that protects our state’s most vulnerable citizens and provides for a decent amount of public safety.”

Senate Bill 2533 will amend the State Facility Closure Act by creating a panel to evaluate facility functionality, missions and creates a moratorium on any closure proceedings. The legislation would look at most large-scale facilities, including correctional, mental health and developmentally disabilities centers.  Facilities under the direction of the legislative branch, Auditor General, judicial branch or higher education centers are not included in this legislation.  

A State Facilities Panel would be constituted and be composed of state employees, legislators and other interested parties. The goal of the panel is to seek a semi-permanent plan to avoid the seemingly-endless threats that are taking place in communities where the facilities are located.