Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the ER project need to be done now?
The administration and the board of commissioners have carefully studied this question. No-one likes to pay extra taxes, but we want the best of care when we need it. The ER project is a necessary improvement to the hospital to enable us to provide the community with the high standard of care that they expect. Waiting for a better time just isn’t an option.
We pay enough taxes – why can’t the hospital pay for its own expansion?
The current tax levy of $18 per $100,000 provides for only 2 days of hospital operations. The hospital finances continue to be challenged by bad debt and charity care which last year were upwards of $2 million. Over the years the hospital has been able to improve its services without asking the tax payers for additional funds – for example the OB and surgery wings were expanded and the entire interior finishes were updated just a few years ago. The hospital is unable to fund this project without public support.
When will I start to pay the extra cost on my taxes?
The tax levy increase will be seen on the 2010 tax statements so the first payment increase will be due on April 30, 2010.
I read in the Omak Chronicle that the levy will mean $7.50 per month for a property value of $100,000. This seems to conflict with what I read on your website and in the brochure.
This was a misprint by the Chronicle. The correct number is $5 per month for a property valuation of $100,000. A confusion may also exist in looking at the tax levy increase and the total levy after the increase. The levy INCREASE will be $42 a year per $100,000 valuation ($3.50 per month). The TOTAL levy will be $60 a year per $100,000 ($5 per month)
Isn’t President Obama giving away money for projects like this?
We are aware of this and we have placed this project on the Governor’s list for “shovel ready projects”. Nevertheless, we are not holding our breath waiting for any such funding. Omak is not in the forefront of political or geographical happenings.
What difference will this project make to me?
No-one likes to think of the cost of health care just like no-one likes to think on the amount they spend on auto or homeowners insurance. We hope you will never need our Emergency Room – but if you or a loved one needs our services, we want them to be the best. Patient care, privacy and the overall experience will be significantly improved through this project. However improvements in the lab and more parking for visitors will be experienced by most people in our community.
Will this project bring jobs to the area?
Absolutely. The main ER will be done by modular construction and the modules will most probably be built in Marysville, WA. However a large part of the project including all site work and all remodeling will be done here. Even though the project will have to be put out to bid, all previous projects have seen general and/or subcontractors from the local area.
