Athens Rehab and SeniorCare is under new management after owners John Plunk and Doug Maund executed a new long-term lease agreement with Northport Health Services.

Brandon Farmer, public affairs specialist for NHS, said the agreement was signed Oct. 19 and is now under state review. He added the 10-year lease agreement is accompanied by two five-year options.

“We’re very thankful (to Maund and Plunk), and look forward to continuing a great level of care and serving the Athens community,” Farmer said.

NHS’s leadership team is currently meeting with staff members and evaluating current procedures, Farmer said. He said NHS’s operating style relies on commitment to care, while being active in the community.

“There will be no interruption of care to anyone living in the facility,” Farmer said. “We obviously want to retain and work with committed staff members there now.”

NHS is already working on expanding and adding services at the facility, including building a new rehabilitation pavilion. Farmer said the new pavilion would offer state-of-the-art rehabilitation services and more private rooms for both short-term and long-term rehab patients.

The Athens Planning Commission on Tuesday granted preliminary approval to extend the Strange Street subdivision, located between Market and Washington streets, to accommodate the expansion.

About NHS

Farmer said Northport-based NHS is a family owned company with four generations now involved in operations. The group manages 48 skilled nursing facilities and employs more than 6,000 employees in Alabama, Florida, Arkansas and Missouri.

NHS also manages Valley View Health and Rehabilitation in Madison and Huntsville Health and Rehabilitation.