| After a long and tenuous waiting process, local residents and medical staff learned Thursday afternoon that St. Joseph Hospital will remain open.
A statement issued by Congressman Brian Higgins read, "Through thoughtful cooperation between the Administration at Catholic Health System (CHS), the State of New York and the employees at St. Joseph Hospital in Cheektowaga, all parties have reached an agreement that will keep St. Joe's open and serving the Western New York Community. Over the last several months I have had a number of personal conversations with (state) Governor Eliot Spitzer stressing the importance of this health facility and I have worked closely with all parties throughout the negotiation process. I applaud the Governor's leadership on this effort and the state's $8 million contribution that solidified the hospital's future in Cheektowaga. CHS President Joe McDonald and the employees are to be commended for their steadfast commitment to finding a resourceful way to keep St. Joe's operating. This community is greatly served by the state-of-the-art quality care offered at St. Joseph Hospital."
In 2006, a "Berger Commission" recommendation included St. Joe's among several state-wide health care facilities that were not profitable and suggested to be closed. Since that time, several politicians and residents have spoke against the closing, and petitions were submitted to state officials.
The Times will provide additional information when it becomes available.
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