Facilities' futures ongoing concern

A member of the Union County Board of Commissioners is hoping to bring together community members who are interested in keeping two state institutions open.

County commissioner Don Denny has proposed establishing a committee which would work to secure the future of the Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center in Anna and the Tamms Correctional Center in Tamms.

Gov. Pat Quinn has proposed closing the Tamms Correctional Center as a way to save money. The Choate Center continues to face an uncertain future.

Community members who may be interested in serving on a committee can contact the Union County clerk's office in Jonesboro and leave their name. The clerk's office can be contacted by phone at 833-5711.