Save Murray Center, Warren G. Murray Developmental Center, Centralia, Illinois

How You Can Help Save Murray Center

1. Send a Letter - There is a link to a sample letter to help out with your letter writing.
   

   Governor Patrick Quinn 207 State House Springfield, IL 62706

   • Get A Sample Letter Here
     
2. Send an Email to Governor Quinn.
    
3. Adopt a Resolution - For any organization wishing to adopt a resolution.
   • Get a Sample Resolution
4. Financial Support - The Save Murray Center Coalition which is being chaired by Centralia Mayor Tom Ashby has set up an account at Peoples Bank for anyone wishing to make a TAX DEDUCTIBLE contribution to cover the Coalition's expenses associated with the Save Murray Center effort. Simply make checks payable to Save Murray Center. Bob Kelsheimer, Executive Director for the Greater Centralia Chamber of Commerce is the campaign chairman, you can call Bob at the Chamber at 532-6789 if you have any questions.

   Checks should be made out to "Save Murray Center" and sent to:
   City of Centralia
   222 S Poplar Street
   Centralia, IL 62801

Why Does Murray Center Need Saved?

Illinois Governor, Patrick Quinn, is calling for the closure of Murray Center. The Warren G. Murray Developmental Center is vital resource for Centralia and Southern Illinois.  Not only does it add to the economic stability of the region by providing employment to over 550 hard working men and women, it also serves as the home to more than 275 severely developmentally disabled individuals, many of whom cannot function on their own or without constant care.  The families of the patients depend on Murray Center to care for their loved ones. 

Although the Governor says that the move is budgetary, State Senator, John O. Jones, a Republican from Mt. Vernon, who represents the Centralia area, said the center actually took in about $10 million dollars more than the $41 million it costs the state to operate every year. He said the excess came from federal Medicare reimbursements and the money went into the state's general fund.

Facts About Warren G. Murray Developmental Center

• Murray Center has been providing skilled service to individuals with the diagnosis of developmental disabilities since 1964.
• Murray Center receives $42.3 million from the State of Illinois for operations.
• Murray’s annual payroll is approximately $38.1 million.
• Murray is allotted 550 employees under the FY12 budget.
• Murray’s current census is 276.
• Over the past 24 months, Murray has been allowed to hire over 100 additional employees.
• The physical layout of the Murray Center is conducive to this care being on one level.
• Murray Center is one of the newest facilities and in good physical condition.
• Murray Center has a noted reputation for excellent efficiency.
• Murray Center provides a compassionate environment for the loved ones of 225 families.