Lafayette County voters will decide on Thursday whether to fund Lafayette Manor, the county-owned skilled nursing facility in Darlington, at an additional $500,000 in 2010, 2011 and 2012, or the put the facility up for sale.

It is the only Medicaid/Medicare-certified skilled nursing home in Lafayette County. The facility employs more than 90 people and serves 67 residents. Supporters say there is a moral and social duty to keep it operational. But there is a substantial operational cost. This year, the facility is projecting to be overbudget by more than $158,000. It is anticipated that the county will experience a budget shortfall, beginning in 2010.

Voting hours are 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. throughout the county.

If the measure is approved by a majority of voters, Lafayette Manor would remain a county-owned and operated skilled nursing facility for the next three years. If the measure fails, the Lafayette County Board of Supervisors will possibly consider either closing or selling it.

On a monthly basis, the tax increase would be less than four cents for every $1,000 of property value, or $4.55 for a $150,000 home.