2017 Budget Approved by CCHS Board of Commissioners

DAYTON— During a special meeting on Nov. 15, the Columbia County Hospital District Board of Commissioners approved its 2017 budget, as well as levy certifications for one regular levy and two debt service bonds.

The budget that was approved reflects $14,288,748 in total net operating revenue. Total operating expenses are $15,842,969. Total non-operating income is $1,704,360. The bottom line for net income is $150,139.

The 2017 budget reflects a $150,000 increase over what was budgeted for in 2015, according to CEO Shane McGuire.

McGuire pointed to the unpredictability of the impact that expansion of therapy services will have on future revenue generation. “There are unpredictable volumes for the therapy pool,” he explained.

The budget for 2017 also reflects the need for hiring additional staff for expanded therapies, particularly in the aquatic program, which requires a therapy director, McGuire said.

Money for additional nursing staff is reflected in the 2017 budget, particularly because of the expanding swing bed program, McGuire added.

McGuire said that pay incentives, which are also included in the budget, will aid in staff retention and recruitment.

The addition of psychiatry services and associated revenues and expenses is also reflected in the 2017 budget, McGuire said.

McGuire told the commissioners that planning phase initiatives have been excluded from the budget. He told them that any major operational or facilities changes, beyond the scope of the adopted budget, would need to be made with the Board’s approval.