The Sweet Springs Ambulance District Board held a special meeting recently to discuss the closure of the hospital facility.

During a closed session held to discuss leasing, purchase or sale of the real estate, board members discussed the future of the hospital property. It was noted that various real estate options are being considered and that agencies have been contacted. It was also noted that that separating acreage from the building would be considered. A motion was made by Board President David Hartley and seconded by Melvin Taber to schedule a tentative closure of the facility for March 3, 2023.

Also in closed session, the board voted to amend the current budget to allow improvements at the ambulance building to qualify for matching funds through the American Rescue Plan Act.

In open session, the board heard from Joey McLiney, a bondsmen with SAMCO Capital. McLiney was requested to attend to explain what expenditures were allowable with remaining bond money. McLiney told the board that operational expenses are not allowable from the remaining bond money, only renovations to the building and new equipment purchases.

Board members asked various questions and discussed options for maintaining the facility. Board members felt that expenses to keep the facility open threatened to bankrupt the ambulance district.