Stevenson County Board members heard multiple residents and Stevenson Nursing Center employees on July 17 press the board to approve a pending sale as the facility struggles with cash flow and outstanding claims.

The calls came during public comment, where Stevenson Nursing Center staff and family members described an immediate funding shortfall and urged the board to accept an offer from Serenity Estates. Monica Listerud, identified as the infection control wound care nurse at Stevenson Nursing Center, said, "I am in full belief that the sale of this nursing home is the only thing that would prevent the residents from having to move." Annette Williams, identified as director of nursing, told the board she has worked at Stevenson for nearly 30 years and said she now supports the sale.

The matter drew contrasting appeals. Jody Koss, a resident of the Harlem district, warned the board to slow the process and asked for a public presentation of all offers and alternatives. "Walnut Acres is not a toy," she said, urging more community involvement. Other speakers, including nursing clinical manager Cheyenne Rowe and Human Resources employee Kendra Martinez, supported selling to Serenity Estates, saying buyers had promised to keep beds dually certified and retain staff.

Why this matters: Board members said the county faces immediate cash needs. Chairman's materials showed revenue to the nursing home of $354,363.73 for June and $108,062 for July 1–15; outstanding claims totaled $2,054,864.21 as of July 17. The chair also said Medicare and Medicaid payments were stopped temporarily because a cost report was not filed on time and that some funds have since been released. Nursing committee members reported a census of 48 residents.

Board action and next steps: The board voted to approve an engagement letter with the law firm Polsinelli to review the real estate contract tied to Serenity Estates' offer. The motion passed, with one board member voting no. The board chair said the contract will be sent to Polsinelli immediately and that a special meeting to vote on the sale contract is likely once the firm completes its review. No vote to accept or reject any sale occurred at the July 17 meeting.

Regulatory and compliance status: Nursing committee members reported the facility's license is currently on an extension and that the cost report has been submitted and accepted. Plans of correction from a recent survey were submitted; staff said acceptance in the state portal is pending verification once portal access is obtained. Committee members emphasized the time required for a public referendum or litigation could prolong a process they said the facility cannot financially weather.

Quotes and concerns: Supporters emphasized continuity of care and job retention. Listerud said staff had reviewed buyers' records and acknowledged past violations at other facilities but argued such incidents can arise from single employee actions and said the buyers pledged no resident moves and retained dual certification. Critics warned the board not to rush, questioned financing and backers of buyers, and urged full disclosure of offers and possible alternatives such as proposals from TCM.

Ending: With Polsinelli engaged to review the proposed sale contract, the board left the substantive choice to a future vote after legal review. Board members and nursing staff said they expect a high-stakes decision in the near term given the facility's cash position and the stated goal of avoiding resident relocations.