Hospital board seeks county support for local bill to authorize sale or lease of hospital district assets

Representatives of the Highlands County Hospital District told the county commission they have pursued a local bill that would tailor state law to allow the district to sell or lease the county hospital and to direct proceeds toward local health services.

A hospital district representative, identified in the meeting as Mr. Harris, said the district’s enabling act permits the board to transfer surplus funds for health services in Highlands County and that the proposed local bill is intended to create a streamlined, locally tailored process for sale or lease. "If you agree, vote yes," Harris said, asking the commission for a consensus so the bill can be filed and move through bill drafting.

Presenters said the process would include a public valuation, open proposals and an evaluation that considers both price and the quality of ongoing care. Staff and the commission discussed that the board would retain authority to direct proceeds to health services in the county if a sale occurs; staff said the county would later establish committee/implementation details about how those funds would be allocated.

Commissioners indicated their support and asked staff to bring back a resolution at the next meeting formalizing the county’s position to the legislature. County attorney and administrative staff said they would review any material changes made during bill drafting and return for board review if needed.