Support Urged for Jim Kime

Dear Editor,

The residents of Columbia County and Waitsburg, once again, have an opportunity to determine the future of healthcare in their respective communities.

A review of the candidates for the Hospital Commission reflects an expressed interest in the importance and need to maintain health care in our communities. All have experience and professional backgrounds that compliment their ability to provide necessary policy and strategic planning direction given time on the Commission. However, the changes that are occurring within the Hospital/Clinics and on the Hospital Commission (two departures) supports a need for stability and continuity as major considerations in the selection and election of a Hospital Commissioner.

While the staff continues their exceptional health care services, the Commission will be faced with continued oversight and direction for:

The remodel, the upgrade of the computer/billing system

The implementation of telemedicine in the ER

The selection of a CEO

And the selection and replacement of one commission member

The above issues have a Commission history dating back some two years (remodel) and as recent as the end September 2015. Each issue will continue to require a high degree of stability and continuity within the Commission to insure the future of health care in Columbia County and Waitsburg.

I urge you to give favorable consideration to sustainability and continuity as you exercise your right to vote! Without reservation I endorse the election of Jim Kime as Commissioner representing District 3 as he provides the stability and continuity essential for continued success.

Ted Paterson

Vail, AZ