Proper hearing was not afforded before the Iowa Department of Human Services announced the shutdown of the Iowa Juvenile Home / State Training School for Girls in Toledo.

Several of what are felt are unanswered questions have been submitted to Governor Terry Branstad concerning the decision by The Chronicle.

Even if a response to The Chronicle questions is received, more questions remain.

Some are:

How much weight was given to continuing to assure Iowa youth will absolutely be properly fed, clothed, housed, protected, received adequate health services and education as they receive at the Iowa Juvenile Home?

Did the Task Force rely too heavily on the findings of Disability Rights Iowa and not delve into or focus on the accomplishments of the Toledo institution?

And, did the Department of Human Services take a look at the effect closing the institution will have on the employees, their familes and this area?

It is not too late for DHS?to re-think the decision and allow for a more thoughtful and more intense examination before shuttering IJH.

-J. Speer