Regional Medical Center Tax Proposal
As a member of the Hempstead County Quorum Court and as a power lineman , I understand how important reliable infrastructure is to our community. Whether it is electricity, water, roads, or healthcare, the services we depend on every day help make Hope and Hempstead County a place where families can live, work, and build their future.
Southwest Arkansas Regional Medical Center serves thousands of residents across our region. According to hospital officials, more than 10,000 people used the emergency room during the past year, and approximately 13,000 people received care through the Rural Health Clinic and other hospital services. For many families, having healthcare available close to home can make a significant difference during emergencies and routine medical needs.
The proposed tax would provide funding for the hospital and is scheduled to expire after ten years. Supporters of the proposal argue that maintaining local healthcare services is important for public health, emergency response, workforce development, and economic growth. Others have expressed concerns about the cost of additional taxes and the long-term financial impact on taxpayers.
Like many residents, I do not like paying taxes and believe government should be careful with taxpayer dollars. At the same time, I recognize the important role local healthcare plays in the lives of many families, including my own.
I encourage every voter to review the facts, consider the information available, and make the decision they believe is best for their family and for Hempstead County. I will be voting YES!
Sincerely,
C David Clayton
Husband
Father
Hempstead County Quorum Court Member
Power Lineman
Life long Hempstead County resident
EDITOR’S NOTE: A previous statement in this article noted JP Lathrop’s opposition. In a Facebook post from the sharing of this article on our Facebook page, Lathrop has updated his position. This is that statement:
I made this statement a few days ago and at that time I had concerns about the tax. I never doubted the need for a hospital but wanted to know more about the counties responsibilities and how our taxpayer money was going to be handled. I also had some very good questions from some of my constituents. I contacted the county judge and we set up a meeting with the hospital administrator and economic development and they answered everything. I now have a better understanding on the situation and what the taxpayers are paying for. After getting information from reliable sources and knowing that a detailed plan will be followed I have decided to vote YES to protect the hospital.
Thank you,
Jay Lathrop
Justice of the Peace District 10