Governor Beebe to Seek Closure of Alexander Human Development Center

Press Release

After discussions with officials at the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) and input from State consultants, Governor Mike Beebe today announced his intention to seek the closure of the Alexander Human Development Center (AHDC). Formal action to begin the closure process must be taken by the Developmental Disabilities Services Board.

Physical-plant issues, proposed staffing increases and challenges in recruiting and retaining staff all contributed to this decision. Additional deficiencies at Alexander detailed by the Office of Long Term Care on Monday further emphasized the need to begin the closure of the facility.

"We believe these clients will be best served by strengthening the other five Human Development Centers in our system and by pursuing additional treatment options," Beebe said. "We will continue working to improve the care of these Arkansans with disabilities system-wide, both in residential and community-based settings."

Leaders at DHS will work to find the most appropriate treatment settings for current AHDC residents based on the needs of each individual client.

The AHDC currently houses 109 adult males, many of whom have severe physical- and mental-health issues.

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