.jpg)
LAUREL — After thorough evaluation and careful consideration, the Laurel City Council has made the difficult decision to permanently close the Hillcrest Care Center and Assisted living facility, effective Tuesday, May 13, 2025.
The facilities are respectively licensed by the State of Nebraska for 36 nursing home residents and 7 assisted living residents.
The closures will collectively impact 50 employees who provide care for 20 individuals who currently reside in the skilled nursing home and assisted living community.
This decision follows an ongoing review of the facility’s financial stability, and operational challenges.
The Hillcrest Care Center has faced a combination of significant financial pressures in recent years, which have made continued operation unsustainable. The rising costs of staffing, goods, and services have significantly outpaced revenue generation, placing an increasing burden on the facility’s ability to cover operating expenses. Additionally, a downward trend in patient census numbers has resulted in reduced revenue, further exacerbating the financial strain.
“The closure of Hillcrest Care Center is a deeply difficult decision for all of us,” said Justin Eriksen, City Council President. “We understand the impact this has on residents, staff, and their families, and we have explored every possible avenue to ensure a smooth transition. Ultimately, the ongoing financial instability, coupled with declining patient numbers and the inability to meet the center’s operational needs, left us with no viable alternative.”
The City Council remains committed to supporting all affected parties, including residents and staff, during this transition period. The Administration and staff will be working closely with local healthcare providers to ensure that residents of the Hillcrest Care Center are moved to suitable care facilities with minimal disruption. Additionally, the Administration will provide resources and support for employees to help them find new opportunities within the healthcare sector.
Facility residents, families, and team members were notified of the closing on March 14, 2025.
