12/30/2025
Governing Board Meeting Highlights (Unofficial Summary)
The Willapa Harbor Hospital Governing Board met on December 16, 2025, to review strategic priorities, with a primary focus on facility master planning, operational performance, and leadership updates.
Facility Master Planning
An onsite visit from Anderson Dabrowski Architects is scheduled for January 13–14, 2026. Joe Kunkle with The Healthcare Collaborative Group will also be onsite during the visit. The architect visit will include a campus tour, assessment of current facility challenges, and discussion of potential redesign and expansion concepts.
The Board discussed the formation of a community advisory committee to support the planning process. This group may include members of the Technical Advisory Committee, along with interested community members. The Board agreed to begin outreach in early January and emphasized that the committee will serve in an advisory role, providing input and recommendations, while all final decisions will remain with the Board. Interested people can contact Dawn Person, 360-875-4558 or email dpearson@willapa.net and a list will be formed.
Leadership Reports
Matt Kempton, Chief Executive Officer, provided updates on facility master planning efforts, leadership recognition, and medical clinic operations. Staffing updates included provider transitions, new hires, and expanded clinic availability planned for 2026. The CEO also shared operational considerations related to clinic access and walk-in hours.
Kimberly Polanco, Chief Financial Officer, reviewed the hospital’s November financial performance, noting a monthly net loss, balanced by improving patient volumes, increased collections, and growth in days cash on hand. Patient service revenue continues to trend above prior-year levels, and property tax support remains a key source of non-operating revenue.
Chelsea MacIntyre, Chief Nursing Officer, reported significant quality and safety achievements, including more than 30 days without a patient fall. Updates were provided on staffing initiatives, behavioral health integration, infection control efforts, technology projects, and continued growth in swing bed and IV therapy services.
Renee Clements, Chief Operating Officer, highlighted strong performance across multiple service lines, including cardiopulmonary, radiology, laboratory, and diagnostic services. Facilities updates included completed life safety projects, upcoming capital improvements, and planning for future facility investments aligned with the hospital’s strategic plan. Community outreach efforts, including the ongoing food and coat drives, were also noted.
Dr. Steven Hill, Chief Medical Officer, reported stable medical staff coverage across hospital, emergency department, clinic, and specialty services, with no current medical staff issues and continued collaboration on medical staff initiatives.
Board Actions
The Board approved the November Meeting Minutes, November Consent Agenda, Resolution 2025-5 amending the Hospital Administrator Employment Agreement, the purchase of two domestic hot water boiler tanks, and the 2026 Capital Planning Budget.
