Dear Animal Disease Lab Supporters,
I'm sure you have heard the sad news regarding the closing of the Centralia Animal Disease Lab. All of you played a very important role in trying to save the CADL. Your hard work is appreciated. There is no question in my mind that we left no stone unturned in our efforts. I also believe this closing demonstrates the height of state government incompetence, petty politics, and a total disregard for the agriculture industry and public safety. I am equally convinced the error of their ways will come back to haunt them; I only hope the damage that they will cause will not be catastrophic.
The acting Director of Agriculture Robert Flider and his direct reports have also demonstrated their total incompetence and must be replaced with someone who actually has an understanding of the agriculture industry, that would be a novel idea! The staff of the CADL should also be commended for their professionalism which they have demonstrated throughout this ordeal. They worked with great diligence everyday in spite of the insulting way they were treated by IDOA officals and co-workers at the Galesburg Lab. I for one plan on remembering who is ultimately responsible for this gross act of negligence and hope others will when it makes a difference and we have a choice of who will lead our once great state.
In addition to my committee members I want to thank all of our regional State Representatives and Senators for their hard work and unwavering commitment to this effort and especially State Representative John Cavaletto who took the lead in trying to save the CADL. It was a pleasure serving as chairman of this committee I only wish we had a different result.
Sincerely,
Bob Kelsheimer
Greater Centralia Chamber of Commerce