The Sandoval County Commission held a work session on Wednesday, July 20th, to discuss the Hospital Tax. Currently, Sandoval County residents are assessed a mill levy of 4.25% on their property taxes. This money is then distributed to both Sandoval Regional Medical Center (SRMC) and Presbyterian RUST Hospital (RUST). Both hospitals are located in Rio Rancho.
Hospital Administrators Jamie Silva-Steele (SRMC) and Angela Ward (RUST) gave a joint presentation to the Commission listing the services provided, economic impact, community involvement and future growth plans of each hospital. The presentation was similar to the ones presented by each before the ES-CA Board.
Commissioner Walters initially stated that he could support a new mill levy of 4% and Commissioner Dominguez asked what would happen if the mill levy was reduced. Both administrators stated that any reduction in the mill levy would have a negative impact on the hospitals and could force cuts in services and/or staff.
After further discussion, the Commission directed the County Administrator to prepare a resolution to renew the tax at a rate of 4.25% and for a term of eight (8) years. The resolution will be discussed and voted upon at the County Commission meeting scheduled for August 4. If the Commission votes to approve the resolution, the issue will be placed on the November ballot for a vote by the residents of Sandoval County.
All Placitas residents are encouraged to attend this meeting. Also, please attend the next board meeting on August 1 if you would like to express your thoughts on this matter to the board.
The extension of the hospital tax should be considered Unconstitutional! The tax is unfair, in that it places the burden on property owners, not users of the hospital facilities. Apartment dwellers, renters, or persons that reside just south of the Sandoval county line have total access to the hospital facilities, without further taxation. Residents with larger families utilize the medical services to a larger degree, than the property owners with small or no family compliment. Rust Hospital should accept ALL healthcare coverage for Sandoval county Tax Payers!