Supports vets

In 2011 the Montana State Veterans Home in Columbia Falls was threatened with closure or privatization. Sen. Dave Lewis of Helena is again pushing for the privatization of this facility, which has been an integral part of the Columbia Falls community since 1896.

Our Montana Veterans Home has had a proud tradition of providing exceptional care and services for those who have served this country. At the present time, the Veterans Home has a five-star rating from the Centers of Medicare and Medicaid.

This facility provides 180 quality-paying jobs for our community, which we highly value. Most importantly, this facility provides a high level of care and comfort to 114 veterans. These men and women fought for our country and put their lives on the line for all of the freedoms we currently enjoy.

At a time when all publicly-funded facilities are commissioned with the task of shaving costs, the solution is not full privatization. History tells us this results in lower-paying jobs, decreased employee benefits and a significant decline in the quality of care our veterans currently receive.

We cannot allow corporate profits and the bottom line to become the priority of these institutions. The priority of our Montana Veterans Home must be veterans first.

The next time somebody like me running for office knocks on your door, ask them where they stand on this issue and demand an answer. It is imperative that we stand up for our Montana Veterans Home.

Zac Perry

Martin City

House District 3 candidate