Resident demands written, 'black and white' commitments from Bay State on Ware clinic

A Ware resident pressed the Selectboard on Feb. 17 for a written record of what Bay State has promised about a proposed convenient-care facility in town, saying public statements and proposals have been inconsistent. "I requested written documentation of what Bay State actually promised during recent meetings with town officials, emphasizing the need for black and white commitments rather than vague statements," Cynthia Bourcier said.

Bourcier cited a May proposal she said assumed five-day-a-week operation but did not account for equipment costs, and she said Bay State representatives have used different terms — "primary care" versus "convenient care" — with conflicting timelines. Chair Nancy J. Talbot acknowledged the difficulty in securing specifics, saying Bay State has been "very noncommittal," and said she would try to obtain something in writing by the next Selectboard meeting.

Town Manager Stuart B. Beckley later noted Bay State discussions remain ongoing and that the town has yet to receive specific financial commitments. Board Member John J. Cascio urged leaders to follow up verbal conversations with written summaries to ensure the town can hold a potential partner to explicit terms.

No formal action was taken at the Feb. 17 meeting; the board did not set binding requirements for Bay State but agreed to seek clarity and documentation ahead of future deliberations.