Those who think they can’t afford to support construction of a new hospital aren’t paying attention to the facts.
Health Facilities Group, Wichita, made it clear last Monday night a new hospital on a new site was the best approach. The citizens Hospital Facilities Commission unanimously made the same recommendation Friday.
Tuesday Allen County commissioners are ex-pected to make official proposal of a new hospital.
As a part of the funding mix, commissioners have indicated repeatedly they would propose a local sales tax.
They will visit with Iola commissioners about the city participating financially through sales tax money Iola raises for capital improvements. Beyond the very important aspect of improved healthcare for its citizens, city commissioners have comfort in knowing that Iola will benefit immensely from a new hospital in its efforts to attract business, industry and new residents.
Countywide tax support has zeroed in on a quarter-cent sales tax, likely decided in a referendum at the Nov. 2 general election.
What would it cost individuals?
That depends, of course, on how much a person spends for goods or services.
A quarter-cent tax would add 25 cents to the purchase of $100 worth of groceries and $50 — that’s less than $1 a week — to the cost of a $20,000 vehicle. If a person spent $1,000 a month on retail purchases and services, the additional cost would be $2.50; a meager $1.25 for someone spending $500.
Who couldn’t afford $2.50 a month? Particularly for something as important as vastly improved healthcare.
CAN’T AFFORD to support construction of a new Allen County Hospital?
We can’t afford not to.
— Bob Johnson
