NEW BERLIN – Chenango County’s planning and economic development leaders tentatively agreed last week to dip into a reserve account to help New Berlin’s Chase Memorial Nursing Home cover the preliminary costs of a $13 million building project.

A resolution to apply $50,000 from a set-aside economic development pool will be presented to the full Chenango County Board of Supervisors next month for consideration.

The not-for-profit long-term care facility plans to transform itself from the traditional, medical nursing home model into a campus-like setting complete with eight individual homes with hearths, dining rooms that seat 10, and plenty of garden views. The houses will be built east and south of the present facility. A former bus garage will be razed.

The New York State Department of Health has “enthusiastically” backed the project, Director Roger J. Halbert said.

“We will be the first in the state to adopt the new Green House concept created by our local expert, Dr. Thomas,” he told members of the Planning and Economic Development Committee Tuesday. Dr. William H. Thomas, of Columbus, is an internationally recognized leader in the provision of eldercare.

Halbert said Chase Memorial was committed to the project, spending $44,000 thus far “to get off the ground.” A fundraising committee will begin this spring to raise $2 million from local corporations and individuals. The institution hopes to access $2 million in grants and like sources and will apply its own $1 million in liquid assets. The balance is expected to be financed via bonds.