COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – A divided Branch County Board of Commissioners decided on Monday to advance Maple Lawn Medical Care Facility and Rehabilitation $1 million and to put a five year millage question on this November’s ballot.
The vote was 3-2 in favor with Commissioners Leonard Kolcz, Jon Houtz and Randall Hazelbaker voting yes. Chair Tim Stoll and Commissioner Tom Matthew voted no. The millage would request .99 mills and bring in $1.6 million per year. The $1 million advance would in increments of $250,000. Maple Lawn Administrator Jane Sabaitis reported to Commissioners on August 4 they are experiencing financial issues that may lead to missed payrolls and unpaid bills.
Her report indicated that the COVID-19 pandemic was mostly to blame for the current situation. Prior to the pandemic, Maple Lawn would run consistently above a 95 percent occupancy rate, today they are at 75 percent.
Revenues for 2022 are down 20 percent, over the same time period in 2021. In addition, Maple Lawn has additional expenses due to the increased cost of supplies, equipment and food.
They have had to adjust wages and give incentives to retain employees. Issues with two major air handlers and a domestic hot water heater are expected to cost about $350,000.
Commissioners had to decide on the millage question by 4:00 p.m. Tuesday afternoon in order to get it on this November’s ballot.
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