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SMHD Director Ruthie Elkins listens as hospital administration explains the specifics of the annual budget and tax impacts.

SMHD Director Ruthie Elkins listens as hospital administration explains the specifics of the annual budget and tax impacts.

Stonewall Memorial Hospital District Budget Approved, Rate Unchanged

The Stonewall Memorial Hospital District Board of Directors officially adopted its 2025–26 budget and approved the accompanying tax rate last week, reaffirming a steady financial course for the coming year while also preparing a backup line of credit to ensure operational stability through the fall.
FCHD CFO Caleb White explains how high Medicare Advantage denial rates are straining rural hospitals’ finances during the board September 22 meeting

FCHD CFO Caleb White explains how high Medicare Advantage denial rates are straining rural hospitals’ finances during the board September 22 meeting

FCHD FINALIZES 2025 BUDGET, STABILITY AND STRENGTH IN FOCUS

The Fisher County Hospital District Board of Directors adopted its 2025 fiscal year budget during a brief public hearing held September 22. No public comments were offered as directors voted unanimously to approve the budget and property tax rate, setting the stage for the year ahead.
Fisher County commissioners Stuart Posey, Micah Evans, and Gordon Pippin vote unanimously to adopt the voter approved tax rate during last week’s special called meeting. Commissioner Dexter Elrod was absent.

Fisher County commissioners Stuart Posey, Micah Evans, and Gordon Pippin vote unanimously to adopt the voter approved tax rate during last week’s special called meeting. Commissioner Dexter Elrod was absent.

FISHER COUNTY LOCKS IN RATE, BACKS RAISES, AND EXPANDS ROAD CREWS

The Fisher County Commissioners Court formally adopted the 2025-26 county tax rate on Monday, September 29, finalizing its budget process just before the start of the new fiscal year.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Rotan ISDOCTOBER 6 TH• Last day to Register to vote or update your voter registration• Roby CISD Board Meeting 6 pm- The district will recognize LION LEADERS for responsibility.Action items include adjusting adult meal prices to meet new state minimums— breakfast from $3.40 to $3.
COFFEE SCIENCE: Expert answers about your daily brew

COFFEE SCIENCE: Expert answers about your daily brew

COFFEE SCIENCE: Expert answers about your daily brew

Coffee is more than a morning pick-me-up.It’s a global industry that shapes economies and everyday culture. At the Center for Coffee Research and Education, scientists study every stage of coffee — from how it’s grown on farms to the drink in your cup.

Rotan ISD names new board members

editor@dmchronicle.comAfter weeks of speculation and multiple closed-door meetings, the Rotan ISD Board of Trustees officially appointed two new members to fill the vacant seats left by Vice President Hunter Helms and Trustee David Mullins.
SMHD Board President Ellen Abernathy smiles with approval as CEO Michael Moorhead explains the final version of the district’s tuition reimbursement program, one Abernathy said she is excited for the hospital to put into action.

SMHD Board President Ellen Abernathy smiles with approval as CEO Michael Moorhead explains the final version of the district’s tuition reimbursement program, one Abernathy said she is excited for the hospital to put into action.

STONEWALL MEMORIAL HOSPITAL ADOPTS WORKFORCE PLAN WITH TUITION AND LOAN SUPPORT

editor@dmchronicle.comThe Stonewall Memorial Hospital District Board of Directors approved a new tuition reimbursement and student loan repayment program during its Sept.