We must change the way we do business.
It is a statement we have heard many times in New York state - and locally. Unfortunately, that statement too often refers to governments, not the privately owned companies and merchants who attempt to maintain their operations here. Those private entities, of course, have to adapt to consumer changes as well as those in the environment.
But getting government to change is a mammoth task - and it rankles tradition. It also sparks major concerns, especially when looking at the Chautauqua County Home.
Earlier this month, a meeting was held with residents and employees regarding the home's future.
The most important part of the story was in the headline on Sept. 17: "It's not closing."
That, however, does not mean there will not be changes in the future. On Friday, a public notice indicated a Request for Proposals regarding the "marketing of the potential sale, lease, or other disposition of the Chautauqua County Home."
In this action, the Legislature is doing its due diligence - and being responsible - in looking to the future of the county. We should note here as well, that the Legislature is also looking at the local airports as well.
All are losing money - and creating a burden the county can no longer afford. The Request for Proposals is not popular, but it is responsible.
Everyone who lives here has a stake in the Home. The process of discussing the future is just beginning. There's still a ways to go.
The situation will not fall off the radar, especially with the efforts of Joe Carrus, County Home resident, anytime soon.
