The Lawrenceville City Council met in executive session for about 45 minutes Thursday night to discuss possible legal action against the United Methodist Village. Lawrenceville Mayor Don Wagner said the Village owes over $62,000 in past due water bills. Wagner said he was told by officials with the United Methodist Village that they would be paying $2,500 every Friday in the short term and pay off the balance in the long term. Wagner stated he wasn’t told when the payments would begin and what was meant by “short term” or “long term.” Wagner said the city council decided to shut off a couple of “non-essential” water meters at the Village on Monday. Wagner assured everyone that water service to the residents would not be affected. The council agreed to advise United Methodist Village president and CEO Paula McKnight to meet with the Utilities Board next week to see if a solution can be found. If a solution can’t be found, Wagner said the city council would have further discussions on possible legal action.
In a related matter, United Methodist Village marketing director Jessica Simmons released another statement. The press release stated that none of the United Methodist Village’s facilities will be close and that Dr. Gary Carr has verified he will continue to serve as Medical Director. The release states the Village has a strategic plan in place and it will be implemented in the next seven to ten business days. Residents and families will be contacted with more details.
