Clearfield County commissioners approved a measure to help a DuBois nursing home build more apartments across the street.
We have more on why some seniors decided to move there.
Residents say maintaining their homes was too much hassle, and now they’re enjoying a new way of life.
“Giving up a home after 60 years is not an easy thing, but the apartments I think are beautiful,” says resident Rose Ward.
Ward says her husband’s Alzheimer’s disease is a big reason she left her house in Reynoldsville last year.
“I wanted this where I had no worries as far as maintenance, and any type of problems that I have, all you have to do is call the maintenance man, and he’s here in minutes,” says Ward.
Now, Christ The King Manor plans to build a second 24-unit building next door starting next month.
County commissioners approved their plans to finance $3.25 million in bonds through the Industrial Development Authority in a 2-0 vote.
“Because the bond proceeds will be used for what’s called private activity under the Internal Revenue Code, the board of commissioners must approve its purpose,” says county solicitor Kim Kesner.
Kesner says the CCIDA will get a small administration fee for the TEFRA bonds and no tax dollars are being spent, but the nursing home gets a better rate.
“These are municipal bonds that will be sold on the bond market. They will generate bond financing,” says Kenser.
One resident says she presses a call button by her shower before 11 a.m. to let the nurses know she’s OK.
Some residents bring furniture from home, keeping that familiar feel.
“It’s for people who I believe are over 50 or 60, and I’m, of course, 74, so it’s really nice to have people my own age who are here and if you want to go for a walk with somebody, you can usually find someone to do it with,” says resident Judy Hodge.
Adminisrator Sam Zaffuto says 52 houses called the Cottages, built since 2002, are also nearby.
“My husband’s had two surgeries since we’ve been in here and I don;t have to worry about a home when I’m away from it while he’s in the hospital,” says Ward.
Residents say rents start around $1,200 a month including utilities. They like not shoveling snow, or paying taxes, and sometimes go to group meals with the Cottages.
There’s even a parking garage that costs a little extra.
“It’s just really nice here. I feel safe,” says Hodge.
Zaffuto says the new apartment building will be built about 44 feet away from the current one.