“Like most residents in the area, I am concerned about the closure of Michaud Nursing Home. While I was aware that Michaud was experiencing financial challenges, prior to Wednesday’s announcement I had not been informed of the planned closure. Accordingly, I could not assist in devising an alternative to closure. Unfortunately, because the NYS Department of Health approved the closure plan and the elimination of Michaud’s nursing home beds, it is unlikely that the facility can continue as a nursing home even with different ownership.

The first priority should be for Michaud’s current operator, St. Luke’s, to assist the current residents and their families find alternative placements at nearby facilities in the county. Secondly, I urge St. Luke’s to hold true to its word and assist Michaud employees find new employment – whether in its own organization or elsewhere. Finally, I look forward to working with all stakeholders including the City of Fulton in finding an ongoing sustainable use for the facility. Michaud has a hardworking dedicated workforce that has provided quality care for its residents for decades. I am saddened to see its closure and the impact that closure will have on Michaud’s residents, its workforce and the City of Fulton.”