New officers selected

By Melinda L. Lucas

Two incumbent board members, Myra Hise and Chris Beard, along with newcomer John Peterson, were sworn in for terms that will probably end up being about a year and a half because the usual May election was postponed until November due to COVID concerns.

Janna Ledbetter, who was also reelected earlier this month, was unable to attend Monday’s meeting and will be sworn in at a later date.

With six directors present, new officers were chosen by secret ballot, with Jo Ann Estridge to serve as board president, Mike Folsom as vice president, and Myra Hise as secretary.

PT Office

Lacy and Mackenzie Viertel were present to answer questions about Lacy Viertel’s physical therapy office in the east end of the clinic building, where she has recently begun seeing patients.

Since the east door is also the one clinic personnel use for COVID testing, and frequent disinfecting is necessary, Viertel has been limited in the hours she can use the facility.

Board member Leslie Belcher suggested closing off the hallway that leads to the north door of the clinic in order to use the adjacent restroom and closet for testing purposes.

All directors expressed their desire to work with Viertel to increase the time she can be in the office and to reduce exposure to her patients. They also agreed with hospital administrator Jera Fairley’s suggestion that no rent be charged until the issue is resolved.

Other Business

•A special meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 18 to review the 2019 audit.

•The next monthly session will be held Dec. 14 rather than the usual third Monday night.

•After closed session, the board approved Christmas bonuses for the EMS, clinic, and district staff.

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