So the State of Minnesota is going to close all of the regional treatment centers in the state. They want to switch to group homes. I can see both sides of this issue. On one side, I believe that it will be better in the long run to treat mentally ill people in a home-like setting as opposed to an institutional setting.
On the other side, that will also mean the displacement of hundreds of state employees. Some of them will eventually be rehired, but others will not. It will also dramatically decrease employment opportunities for our youth. When I was a teenager, some of my first jobs were at the Regional Treatment Center; first as a painter, then as a janitor. Some of my peers also worked out there at one time. It was a mecca for young people looking for summer or part-time employment.
For those of you who have worked there or are currently working there, thank you for all you have done in helping the residents there, whether directly or indirectly. I wish you the best of luck in your futures.
Kent Syverson
Willmar
