The Carroll County Commission convened on September 22, 2025, for a meeting that addressed several pressing issues, including staffing concerns at the county nursing home and public inquiries regarding local facilities.
The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by public comments. A key speaker, identified as Kenny, raised ongoing concerns about staffing levels at the nursing home, highlighting a low Medicare rating of one star for staffing. He noted that the facility's staff turnover rate is significantly higher than both the national and state averages, indicating challenges in retaining employees. Kenny emphasized the importance of stable staffing for the well-being of residents and requested detailed information on recent hires, specifically the number of full-time versus per diem staff.
Another member of the public, Catherine from Wolfsburg, brought forth several housekeeping issues. She suggested that a notice be placed on the meeting door to inform the public about the meeting location. Catherine also pointed out hazardous conditions due to large holes in the parking area, urging prompt repairs to prevent potential damage to vehicles. Additionally, she inquired about the status of investigations related to a former employee, Terry McCarthy, and requested updates on a contract with North Star Community, which involved the county providing a building for a nominal fee. She expressed the need for accountability regarding the number of children served and staffing levels at that facility, given the financial support it receives from government sources.
In response to the concerns about the parking area, the Commission confirmed that paving of the facility is planned, which should address the issue raised by Catherine.
The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the county in managing staffing at the nursing home and maintaining communication with the public regarding local services and facilities. The Commission is expected to follow up on the inquiries made during the public comment period, ensuring that community concerns are addressed in a timely manner.