(06/13/19) - A state-run psychiatric facility in Caro faces an uncertain future.
Then-Governor Rick Snyder attended a ground breaking in the Tuscola County community in October.
Then in March, Governor Gretchen Whitmer halted the construction.
The new administration cited concerns over staffing, the ability of families to be involved in a patient's treatment, and water accessibility.
But those concerns were only raised after ground was broken.
Community members and center workers are now fighting to keep it in town.
Thursday afternoon the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, along with the consultants working to figure what move to make, held a community listening forum at Caro High School.
Several people spoke asking the decision makers to keep the promise and keep the Caro Center where it's at.
"You build it and they will come, and I think that there's a lot to be said if we spend the money in this community, the people, the staff and the talent will find it and want to work here," said a businessman.
"Regardless of the benefit that may come to the community or area that would receive the facility if it's not built here, can in no way benefit enough to offset the cost and the devastation to this community," said another man.
"You know we talk about red and blue, red and blue. Well Caro is purple. And I think Governor Whitmer should think about that rather than give up Tuscola County, or Bay County or Sanilac County, or any of these other counties. Swoop in lady," said Peter Newman, superintendent of Caro Schools.
If you missed the meeting you can submit your comments online. The deadline is Wednesday, June 19 at 5 p.m. Click on the 'Related Link' with this story to be directed to the site.