Soddy‑Daisy commissioners back Parkridge ER, approve equipment purchases and donate surplus engine to Kentucky

The Soddy‑Daisy Board of Commissioners on Aug. 18 unanimously approved a resolution supporting Parkridge Hospital’s application for a Certificate of Need to build a $16 million free‑standing emergency room near Harrison Lane and Highway 27, and cleared a slate of equipment purchases, grants and a donation to out‑of‑state flood relief.

Thomas Ozburn, president and CEO of Parkridge Hospital, told commissioners the proposed 24/7 emergency department would include 12 emergency beds, board‑certified physicians on duty around the clock, trauma rooms, full‑service imaging and a helipad for Life Force. "This should assist with EMS calls," Ozburn said, adding the region receives “20,000 plus EMS calls” and that the facility could reduce transport time and save lives. He estimated construction would take about eight months and said Parkridge is coordinating with other area hospitals, including Erlanger. The board voted to support the hospital’s CON request; the resolution passed unanimously (1st: Commissioner Shipley; 2nd: Commissioner Coleman).

The health‑care vote came after a public hearing and first reading of an amendment to the city’s zoning ordinance (Article IV, Section 1503, subsections 15 and 16 for R‑T/Z district regulations). There was no public opposition at the hearing; Vice‑Mayor Cothran moved and Commissioner Coleman seconded the motion on first reading,…