This Press Release initially posted on InsiderNJ.com on Oct. 12th, 2023
October 12, 2023
Contact: O’Connor for Commissioner Email: oconnorforcmc@gmail.com
PATRICIA O’CONNOR CONDEMNS PRIVATIZATION OF CREST HAVEN NURSING HOME
CAPE MAY COUNTY, NJ – Patricia O’Connor, Democratic candidate for Cape May County Commissioner, strongly condemns the decision by the all-Republican Board of County Commissioners to privatize the Crest Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. The move to award a 10-year contract to Allaire Rehab & Nursing has far-reaching consequences for our community and the dedicated workers who have tirelessly served the residents of Crest Haven.
Rush to Privatize Crest Haven
The rush to privatize Crest Haven without giving our workers a fair chance to discuss alternatives is deeply troubling. It is clear that the County Commissioners have neglected to consider the suggestions made by the employees and their union representatives. The claim that this move will be “good for the people” seems increasingly disingenuous when it is evident that our workers are not being heard and considered.
Furthermore, the decision to privatize Crest Haven was based on an analysis showing significant financial losses, but the employees have alleged that the county failed to address these issues or improve oversight and management. This highlights a lack of transparency and accountability in the decision-making process.
Equally concerning is the potential decrease in the level of care that residents at Crest Haven may experience as a result of this decision. Privatization often comes with cost-cutting measures that could compromise the quality of care provided to vulnerable residents. We must ensure that the well-being and safety of our elderly and disabled residents remain paramount.
Workers of Crest Haven Nursing Facility
As the Democratic candidate for Cape May County Commissioner, I firmly stand with the workers of Crest Haven and their families. We must prioritize the well-being of our community and ensure that our employees are treated with the respect and consideration they deserve. It is my promise that, if elected, I will work tirelessly to advocate for the people of Cape May County and protect the livelihoods of those who have served with dedication and pride.
It is time for our County Commissioners to put the interests of our residents first, ensure transparency in their decision-making, and provide a fair chance for the voices of our workers to be heard. I call upon the County Commissioners to reconsider their decision and engage in meaningful dialogue with the employees and their representatives.
For more information about Patricia O’Connor’s campaign and her stance on the issues facing Cape May County, please visit www.oconnorcmc.com. To read this press release on the Insider NJ website go here: https://www.insidernj.com/press-release/cape-may-county-commissioner-candidate-patricia-oconnor-condemns-privatization-of-crest-haven-nursing-home/
I understand the position you have taken on the privatization of Crest Haven. Perhaps you can clarify your platform by commenting on the following: What do you propose to improve government transparency, including school districts and authorities, in the County? What steps would you take to bring affordable rental and first time buyer options to the housing market in the County? What role do you think County Commissioners have in leading an effort to improve HS educational outcomes (test scores)? What is your position on the completion of Rt 55? The County Open Space program seems to have moved from land preservation to supporting tourism venues. Do you agree with this shift or should it be re-evaluated? Do you think the County needs a separate bridge commission to manage 5 Ocean Drive structures? What role do you see for the CMC commissioners in the redevelopment of CMCH?