A proposal to build an in-patient hospice center in southern Lawrence will be explored by Douglas County Visiting Nurses Association and the county commission.

During their meeting this morning, VNA asked commissioners to donate county-owned land on the east side of the Douglas County United Way building, 2518 Ridge Court, for a hospice center.

Commissioners said they supported the concept of a hospice center but stopped short of saying they would donate the vacant property, which covers about 5 acres. They said they needed more information about the proposal and the adequacy of the site for the center.

Commissioner Charles Jones said there might be other sites available for a hospice center, noting that the county may need the proposed site for a future building project.

Commissioner Jere McElhaney said he had questions about whether the site would be adequate because of drainage issues. He said he wanted to talk to Bill Bell, the county’s buildings and grounds director about the proposal.

VNA currently is reviewing the financial feasibility of taking on a 12-bed hospice center.

“We love the location. It’s very accessible,” VNA chief executive Judith Bellome said.

Commissioners said they would discuss the issue again in 30 days after more information about the site and the project is obtained.