The Big Sandy Mountaineer -

We're only three weeks away from the Big Sandy Medical Center's Annual Board Meeting. This will be the 59th Annual Meeting to be held for the facility. Big Sandy Medical Center was originally built in 1965 with a clinic, ER and hospital. The nursing home addition was erected in 1985. In 2019, the Nursing Home status was terminated and the facility became a full Critical Access Hospital. The Board has been there for it all. In reviewing events of the recent years, finding people interested in volunteering their time and knowledge to BSMC has been difficult. Ballots have had only one name to vote for, and that person was usually sought out and asked to sit on the board instead of coming forth on their own volition. This year looks different though. Two people requested their name be listed on the ballot, and the current Board Member, Harvey Keller, whose term is up, has opted to run again. A true election will be taking place at the Annual Meeting on November 30th. You'll hear more about the candidates, Dr. Karen Baumann, Ken Denning, and Harvey Keller, in a future article.

Did you know that you do not have to be a Board Member or a BSMC employee to place your vote for the candidates? The only requirements for voting are that you be a resident of Montana, and either a resident of Chouteau County or a taxpayer of the Chouteau County Hospital District II. If you're unsure of which hospital district you are in, that information can be found on your property taxes.

If you cannot be present at the Annual Board Meeting, but would still like to vote, you can pick up an absentee ballot. They are available in the Big Sandy Medical Center Business Office any time between 8 am and 5 pm, M-F. You will be asked to provide some information validating your residency and then given a blank ballot and envelope to cast your vote. All ballots must be received by 4:00 pm on November 30th to ensure they get counted.

Of course, if you can make it to the annual meeting, you will be given an opportunity to vote there, as well as gain other insights about the happenings at the Big Sandy Medical Center. The public is welcome and coffee and snacks will be available.You don't have to wait for the Annual Meeting every fall to be privy to the happenings, the regular Board Meetings are usually held on the third Thursday of the month and open to the public. November 16, at 5:30 pm in the BSMC conference room is the next regular meeting. Be sure to keep watching for more information in the coming weeks regarding the election process, candidates, and an update on the projects happening around the facility!