BOC tables action on BJC bailout request

At a BOC meeting three weeks ago, Rick Massey, a member of BJC Medical Center Authority, asked the county to guarantee — and also repay — 75 percent of a $5.2 million loan, as well as guarantee 75 percent of a $1 million line of credit.

On Monday, one citizen spoke on his concerns about the hospital.

“I went to the hospital two and a half years ago and almost ended up in the grave because of problems there,” Jeff Sheffield, Maysville, said.
He added that there is litigation going on because of care received at the hospital.

The request by BJC is to consolidate approximately $1.5 million in debt on hospital bonds with $2.5 million in short-term debt and $1.2 million of accounts payable. The requested amounts calls for an additional $3.7 million in support from both Jackson and Banks counties.

The authority made a similar request — for the other 25 percent of support — from the Banks County Board of Commissioners. The Banks BOC did not take action on the request. Financial obligations related to the medical center have always been split on a 75:25 percent ratio between Jackson and Banks counties.

Currently, Jackson County makes the $153,655 annual payment for hospital bonds. If the BOC grants the authority’s request, its payment would go to $382,395. The duration of the agreement is for 15 years.