Members of the Montgomery County Commission failed to pass a new $7.5 million spending package for Jackson Hospital at their Tuesday meeting.
The vote failed in a 2-2 tie with one abstention.
“We lost this one. It doesn’t change our resolve. It doesn’t change our focus. Hopefully, it doesn’t change the opinion of the bankruptcy court, but we’re going to continue to work for it,” Montgomery County Commissioner Justin Castanza, who voted in favor of the proposal, said at the meeting.
The new spending would’ve been in addition to previous spending packages approved for the financially-ailing hospital, with the hope of the state matching the local spending.
The agenda item states the new $7.5 million in spending will be paid over three years at $2.5 million per year, contingent on the “participation of the City of Montgomery and/or other entities in providing an equitable portion of funding necessary for the sustainability of Jackson Hospital.” The funding was approved by the Montgomery City Council at their meeting on Tuesday morning.
Montgomery County Commissioner Isaiah Sankey, who voted against the measure, said, “My vote here today was not the end all for Jackson Hospital.”
“I can assure you of that. It’s an opportunity for more dialogue and so forth to bring in partners who always should of been at the table,” he added.
Cody Clark, a spokesperson for the Montgomery County Commission told 1819 News, "At today’s meeting, the Montgomery County Commission voted on a proposed resolution that would have provided additional financial support to Jackson Hospital. The motion failed on a 2–2 vote, with one abstention, and therefore did not receive the votes necessary for approval. The resolution under consideration would have authorized an additional $7.5 million in County financial support for Jackson Hospital beginning in 2027, structured as $2.5 million per year committed over three years."
"It is important to note that this vote does not change the County’s prior commitment of $10 million for Jackson Hospital, which was previously approved in an ongoing effort to support access to healthcare in Montgomery County," Clark said. "The Commission recognizes Jackson Hospital’s critical role in serving residents across Montgomery County and the River Region. Commissioners also have a duty to ensure that any additional public investment is sustainable, clearly defined, and developed collaboratively with hospital leadership and other community partners. As this matter continues to evolve, the Commission remains willing to work with Jackson Hospital leadership, the City of Montgomery, regional partners, and state leaders to identify a responsible path forward."
Gina Maiola, a spokesperson for Gov. Kay Ivey, told 1819 News, "Governor Ivey is disappointed members of the County Commission did not fulfill their commitment to support Jackson Hospital."
"Governor Ivey believes it is imperative this hospital keeps its doors open. She will continue to engage with local officials and respond with her commitment at the appropriate time," Maiola said.
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