GRH member McKie to run again

Greater Regional Health Chief Executive Officer Monte Neitzel said Monday board member Sherry McKie will run for re-election on the Nov. 5 ballot. Her term, along with board member Julie Lanning, expire this year.

Neitzel said McKie’s plan gives the board better options to operate in the future.

Last month, the board approved to switch to a five-member board including the elimination of a seat vacated by Tom Dunphy in December 2022. McKie had decided last month to not run again. Neitzel said that still put the board in an awkward situation as the remaining four members would all be on the November 2026 ballot.

“That is too many people,” Neitzel said, not liking how the terms would be staggered.

Next year, voters will see school candidates on the ballot. The state will not allow the hospital to be on the same ballot.

“We are still looking at what to do with the board. We hope to have it determined by the end of the year. We still may go five on the board. We may see if there is interest to have a seven-member board, and get one by appointment,” he said.

Candidates for the board have until Aug. 28 to file nomination papers.