LWVSJ Observer Corps: SJC Public Hospital District #1, July 26, 2023
Housing for Healthcare Feasibility Study: Three representatives from Faber Construction/King Architecture presented a plan for four 8-plex apartments on a 10-acre parcel adjacent to EMS and PIMC for use as EMS/PHD/Village/PIMC employees’ housing. The project requires a zoning change from light industrial to multifamily residential, an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan, Peace Health Inc. approval and FAA approval due to its airport proximity. The architecture style matches the EMS building and offers a mix of 1, 2, and 3 bedroom units, with a total of 32 units. Some larger units offer flexibility with lock out bedrooms or expansion to dorm style accommodations. This project can be done in phases; Phase 1 is site prep for all four buildings, and completion of two, and Phase 2 the other two buildings. With a 2025 start time, Phase 1 estimated total cost is $11,312,500, and Phase 2 estimated at $10,350,000. Tina Smith, Interim Executive Director of Village at the Harbor, and Jack Estrada, Chief Administrative Officer of PIMC, participated in the discussion.
Village at the Harbor Expansion Feasibility Study: Faber/King Architecture then presented an analysis for a 20-unit expansion to the Village. There were no viable options using adjacent properties, and adding a second story was too expensive and complex. The best solution is an elevated structure above the parking lot and attached to the existing building. The additional units, plus office space and other support facilities, would add significant space and functions. Height restrictions, property footprint restriction, and additional parking would have to be addressed by zoning change, variance, and other options. With a summer 2025 groundbreaking, the total estimated project budget is $10,488,000.
Financial Director Steve Wambsganss reported that revenues and expenditures were running as scheduled for both PHD and EMS. Transition from San Juan County control of financial matters to PHD continues, and he foresees total PHD independent financial operations by January 1.
The Commissioners discussed sending a letter to state elected officials regarding the harmful impact of irregular ferry operations on islanders seeking essential medical treatment on the mainland.
The Commission approved a subsidy to the Family Resource Center for its medical-related programs of $30,000 for 2023 and 2024.
Medicaid at Village at the Harbor: Motion passed to execute the Medicaid contract and include the Medicaid Enrollment Policy, ending a long effort to include Medicaid residents at the Village.
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