Nursing home candidates using ‘frail elderly’ for political power grab

Editor:

A while back, I wrote an observational editorial commenting on the resistance concerning the transfer of the county nursing home to a private firm. I pointed out that it would be good for taxpayers and the only changes the residents would experience would be positive in nature. I wondered what the critics were trying to save the nursing home from?

The upcoming election literature cleared up my confusion. Mr. Kent and two or three friends, according to the handouts and published items, are trying to save the nursing home from reality! They seem to be climbing on the backs of the “frail elderly” while attempting some sort of transparent political power grab here in the county. I have not read one comment or suggestion addressing real issues confronting county taxpayers.

New York state mandates, the so-called SAFE act, emergency communications, enhancing tourism, lowering taxes, the plight of small business all seem to fade away while they rage against a well thought out, thoroughly discussed, voted upon and court approved policy insuring the nursing home’s long term viability.

In a situation where an issue has to be created it usually involves “the children.” In this election cycle, the attempt is being made to turn the well being of a group of truly vulnerable patients into a vehicle to propel this group into a position to do … what? I have not seen one reality based proposal or suggestion put forth.

The burden that increased taxes produces is real. The quality of life and day-to-day care of the nursing home residents is real. Responsible, pragmatic and visionary county government is real. Attempting to create division to satisfy vested interests and political “wannabes” is not.

There is one more mystery to be solved. Why would a local political party, labeling itself “conservative,” support candidates whose sole purpose in running seems to be maintaining the expansion of government, via ever increasing taxes, into an area best served by the private sector?

Paul J. Blajszczak
Medina