Pocono News Section

Last Hospital Holdout Standing Strong

Last Hospital Holdout Standing Strong - Thursday, May 7, 2009 at 5:18PM EST

Williamsport, Lycoming County-
An 81-year-old Williamsport man is taking a stand against the expansion of Susquehanna Health System.

We’re told a “declaration of taking” involving Forest Hafer’s property was filed by the Williamsport Redevelopment Authority last week. Hafer has 30 days to challenge the action.

It’s just the latest chapter in a fight that could go on for quite some time.

Forest Hafer has lived at his home on Walnut Street for more than 40 years. The armed forces vet says he won’t give in to Susquehanna Health’s attempt to use eminent domain to take his property.

Hafer said, “To me, it’s a constitutional matter of just compensation.”

At issue is the health system’s Project 2012, an expansion plan that would create a regional medical center campus.

Hafer’s home on Walnut Street is the last property in this development that hasn’t been acquired by Susquehanna Health. It’s important because it sits directly across the street from the current facility.

Hafer claims the two sides are not that far apart in terms of a monetary offer. It’s more of a stand on principle.

He explained, “They feel insulted I guess, and so do I.”

Hafer says he will fight the battle in court if he must. He calls it an important civics lesson for today’s generation.

He emphasizes it’s nothing personal against the hospital or its employees.

Hafer noted, “I have nothing against the hospital per se`, it does good work.”

But he does question the need for the expansion, suggesting it’s more decorative than useful.

And Hafer says he’s fighting for others as well- battling what he calls a termination of liberties and property rights.

He added, “The people should realize that this type of authority, exercised at large, will spread to their descendants, their children and grandchildren.”

Susquehanna Health officials referred questions about the negotiations with Forest Hafer to the Williamsport Redevelopment Authority. They did not return our calls for comment.