LETTER:
Last week, it was announced that Polk and White Haven Centers will be closing in three years. Let’s hope and pray that those living at the two facilities and the dedicated career employees aren’t subjected to the misleading statements regarding the closure of Western Center. The commonwealth, in its infinite wisdom, would have had the public believe the closure of Western was the result of the lawsuit filed in 1992. This was so very far from the truth.
The fact is, the demise of Western Center was put in place in 1986 by investors, shall we say “establishing interest in purchasing the property”. Because of its close proximity to both the interstate system and the Greater Pittsburgh International Airport, the advantages of development were impressive. Unfortunately, due to slanted and provocative statements by ARC and their ally Pennsylvania Protection and Advocacy, Western Centers demise was nearly certain. Those agencies who “professed” being advocates for the individuals painted a picture of abuse and warehousing of our residents. Granted in 1989 a very small group of employees were charged and subsequently fired for their actions. Some were even charged with and brought before the magistrate on charges. I make no excuses for their outrageous conduct. But the despicable actions of those few of the 500 employees, painted a dire picture of the workers and the facility itself. The so-called advocates used this issue to seek the final closure of our facility. And, since the “speculative land purchasers/developer”s already were making their intent known to the late Frank Mascara, the Board of Commissioners, and the late Senator Barry Stout, this emboldened their plan to secure the Western Center property. Numerous hearings, both at the Federal and State levels were held. Testimony from the ARC and PPA again, painted a distorted picture of the day-to-day workings of the facility. Testimony provided by the workers, and parents was also given. But, to no ones surprise, our concerns were not considered. Then, in approximately 1988 the County and the Commonwealth determined that sale of “excess” property would be successfully completed. Which then became Southpointe I. From that time forward, the writing was on the wall for the remaining portion of the facility.
My rationale for this history lesson is three-fold: First, You, the employees, and the communities that depend on these facilities need to speak out in one clear voice: You strongly object to these closures and Second, Do not let the so-called advocates speak for those individuals you serve. You, be the voice for them. as you have been for the largest part of their lives. And, last but certainly not least, be conscious of the “investors” showing their interest in your facilities property. I wish all those that reside at Polk and White Haven the best that life has to offer. And to the employees, be proud of your careers of serving as parent, guardian, sister, brother to all in your care.
Barry L. Andrews
President (Retired)
AFSCME LOCAL-2324
Vice President
Washington-Greene
Central Labor Council