Following the closure of the Adrian Manor and Crystal Manor earlier this year, the community has patiently been awaiting the reopening of the facilities under new ownership by Missouri Baptist Homes, and that moment is inching closer according to Administrator Ron Pence, who addressed the council last week. Pence said that plans are moving forward despite a slight delay regarding needed certification and mostly likely the skilled nursing facility will now be open by next Summer, a few months later than the previously thought early Spring estimate. With that, the waiting list is growing daily and it is likely that most all rooms may be spoken for by the grand opening.
Pence also told the council that the former Crystal Manor will be open as an independent living facility a little sooner, possibly within the next 45 days or so as work is ongoing to replace flooring, paint and a few other upgrades as well. Back across the street at the manor, much of the same work is underway including installation of a new roof, flooring, parking lot repaving and construction modification to rooms to upgrade privacy and allow for couples to reside together. He went on to say that upon completion of work and opening of both existing locations, new construction will begin on two 7,200 square foot independent/assisted living 12 bed facilities that will be located just west of the manor location with more details to come soon.
In other council news, the Adrian city attorney is reviewing current city codes and will return with a game plan for the January 10th meeting to adopt needed resolutions and other action items, as ongoing issues regarding the former Adrian motel and other housing concerns have plagued the city recently mainly due to confusion regarding the current codes and proper enforcement. Even as this is high priority, other items on the agenda have equal precedent for the attorney including details regarding the requirement of licenses for businesses and employee evaluation procedures, all of which will be addressed a little further down the road.
It has been suggested the city install a proper crosswalk at old 71 and Hazel street, however due to MoDOT standards, it may be cost prohibitive at this time. A compromise was made to install signs at a cost of about $800 to make drivers aware and hopefully slow down when passing through the area.
The city also reviewed health insurance needs, as the cost is ever increasing and the marketplace is changing as well. With that in mind, the council chose to stay with their current provider which appears to be the most cost effective plan.
Remember, the Adrian city council meets on the second Monday of each month, 7 pm at city hall and the public is always highly encouraged to attend.
