Push to block sick inmates in Rocky Hill nursing home denied

ROCKY HILL, Conn. (WTNH) -- A push to block sick inmates from using a Rocky Hill nursing home has fallen through. A judge ruled against a temporary restraining order but the move is drawing a lot of criticism from town officials and neighbors.

There have been public outcrys and ralllies but now it appears the Town's next move is court.

There is a tired, worn handmade sign near Rocky Hill's West Street, yet the message it sends is perfectly clear, no nursing homes for inmates.

"It is a little scary," said David Pleasanton of Rocky Hill.

Pleasanton is one who agrees with the tattered sign. Frankly, many are furious the state wants to use this private nursing home for terminally ill and sick inmates, especially since the town officials say the property is not zoned for such use.

"It seems like they are fighting a loosing battle," said Pleasanton.

The reason David says that is because a court denied a request by the town for a temporary restraining order against the facility's ownership to embark on such a venture. State Representative Antonio Guerrera has been vocal in his displeasure over the state's idea.

"You get a very bitter taste in regards to how this whole situation occurred, in regards to, basically, circumventing the zoning process, getting public hearings, and putting a facility of this nature in a residential area," said Rep. Guerrera.

State officials say there is low risk to the community, and the move will save millions, considering federal money is available for a project like this and although the sign is tired, the fighting spirit of a neighborhood is not.

"I don't believe anything the state says, on any subject," said Pleasanton.

There is a public health hearing on Senate Bill 115, a bill that would stop Corrections and Mental Health from releasing prisoners into residential facilities without prior local approval.

That meeting is Friday, 11:00 a.m. at Wesleyan University.