After a battle that’s lasted months, the fate of St. Joseph County's only publicly-owned assisted living facility is clearer.

Portage Manor will be closing.

County Commissioners made that final decision today, ending speculation and uncertainty that's lasted for months.

It has brought out many community members trying to preserve Portage Manor, so many were visibly emotional as the commissioners affirmed their decision.

The Portage Manor Task Force was created by officials and community members, who passionately put together four proposals in an effort to keep the facility open.

The main recommendation, a public-private partnership from Dr. Sylvana Atallah, contained "significant shortfalls," according to the Board of Commissioners president.

Commission attorney Michael Misch says there were concerns about licensing echoed by officials at the state level.

"Those things were not fleshed out in the plan and the immediate concern was the county turned over the facility, that facility would be in immediate violation of the law and cause significant problems,” said Misch.

But commission president Carl Baxmeyer says they're looking into a fifth option to bring to the county council and public -- to keep most of the residents together in a new facility.

"If you keep us all together, whether it's in the building we're in now or in a different building, the residents will be happy because we're still together,” said Mark Huffman, lives at Portage Manor.

While many were frustrated by the commission's choice, some closest to Portage Manor were encouraged by the potential plan.

"But it will allow residents to stay together, which we heard loud and clear the last few weeks that that is, if not as, important as being in the building in Portage Manor,” said Carl Baxmeyer, (R) Commission President.

Some with connections to Portage Manor say keeping the residents together in a new facility could be a viable option.

"If there's a possibility of keeping them together, yes that is their family almost more than we are their family,” said Trish Becker, sister of Portage Manor resident.

Commissioner Baxmeyer says they'll make the fifth proposal public when they have a finalized agreement.

The ultimate decision to close the current facility will now head to the County Council next Tuesday.