Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed on Wednesday vetoed a resolution that had passed unanimously by the Montgomery City Council to finance Jackson Hospital.
Reed released a statement Thursday saying he wants to help the hospital, but believes the resolution needs to be amended.
”The City of Montgomery remains committed to supporting Jackson Hospital and ensuring that quality healthcare remains accessible for our residents and families,” Reed said. “However, we propose the terms of the funding resolution to be amended.”
Reed pointed to Code of Alabama Section 22-21-212, 22-21-293 and 45-37-243.11 to argue that it is the county’s responsibility for hospital and indigent care, and therefore the county commission should have the majority stake in any future financing.
“For that reason, I am asking that the current terms of the agreement be amended,” Reed said. “The City is prepared to work toward better terms and an amended funding agreement that protects residents and reflects a fair share of responsibility.”
Hospital administrators are asking city, county and state leaders to help the hospital out of dire financial straits after having to declare bankruptcy due to defaulting on $60 million worth of bonds.
Montgomery leaders have emphasized the importance of keeping the hospital open to provide care in the metropolitan area and wider region,
Hospital administrators have warned that the hospital could run out of operating funds by the end of October if they don’t receive help from local government leaders.
“We are not withdrawing support from Jackson Hospital,” Reed said. “We are insisting on accountability, fairness, and partnership — for the good of our residents and the integrity of public resources.”
