By Marilyn Miller
There was talk of Mergers & Acquisitions, land developing and consulting, and private equity firms before the story’s lead finally emerged – Savannah Court nee The Arbor is now “The Columns” of Germantown, an Assisted Living Community, and the owners live right here in Minden.
Jeff and Kacey Rhodes, fourth generation Mindenites, along with a couple of partners doing business as Valiant Healthcare Management, closed the deal on Tuesday, April 30 and took over ownership on Wednesday, May 1, 2024.
Jeff spent the past 18 years in various aspects of the long-term care business, while Kacey is a retired teacher. They both decided that the corporate management of Savannah Court in Minden “wasn’t good enough for the grandmother we have living there.” So they determined to do something about it.
Although the center was not for sale, the Rhodes and their partners pushed until a deal could be made, which ultimately included the purchase of the assisted living center in Bastrop as well.
“You always run a risk when you purchase a property ‘as is,’” Jeff pointed out. “When the State forced the closure of Savannah Court last year (because of hurricane damage to the roof four years before) the center was full (26 to 28). When they reopened, only 17 returned. Now we have 19. So our immediate goal is to fill all the apartments (two which accommodate two renters) with 26 to 28 people.”
According to Jeff, the facility is actually in good shape, now that the roofing challenge has been tackled. As far as facilities are concerned, the couple has a vision of adding a “memory care” cottage, which will safely accommodate folks with dementia or Alzheimers. But that will not be an immediate goal, since money will need to be spent in other areas first. And a lot of money is being invested in both Minden and Bastrop properties.
“We’re getting to know the residents and families now,” Kacey commented. “What we want is the best that we can give them! Our own grandmother is here (Nancy Craig). So we care greatly! We want a clean place for them, a safe place for them. And offering AMAZING FOOD is at the top of our list.”
“Yes, our passion is to make meals amazing. We want our residents healthy at the same time. We saw the food (the residents were eating). The staff was doing their best with what they had. We plan on setting up some food programs that will be locally sourced as well.”
“And we want to do business with local companies (vendors),” Jeff added. The two have lived in Minden all their lives, so they know more than a few local vendors.
Jeff and Kacey plan to become even more involved in the community. And they want the community to become involved with “The Columns.” They will keep the same staff members. “Nancy Hines, executive director; and Denise and Sue have done phenomenal jobs here,” the couple agreed.
They also welcome the community’s input as far as what “The Columns” has to offer down the road and right now.
Chamber members, the Rhodes are looking at an early June ribbon-cutting, which will give them time to complete new signage, and allow artist Mary Ward to complete development of the logo and the web site.
The Rhodes are proud of their partners in their new endeavor. “We have equal partners (in real estate), and they are wholesome, Christian folks,” Jeff exclaimed. And they are seeking new acquisitions because they want to grow.
But as far as “The Columns” of Germantown, Assisted Living Community, the couple agrees that they “have wanted to do business in the Minden community for a long time.” That’s why they have adopted the motto: “Hometown Values, Hometown Care.”