Drew Webb has decided not to run for reelection to the Park Hospital Board. At this time, there are three candidates for two board seats, Thomas Leigh, Max Salfinger, and Janet Zeschin. David Batey, who is the current board chair, is term limited and cannot run for reelection. Individuals interested in having their name printed on the ballot can fill out the self-nominate form until the end of business on Friday, Feb. 28. Self-nomination forms to be a write-in candidate must be received no later than 5 p.m. on Monday, March 3, 2025. The May 6 election will be conducted by mailed ballots. Credit: Patti Brown / Estes Valley Voice

As my first term on the Park Hospital Board concludes in May, I have decided not to seek re-election. I will continue to support Estes Park Health and the PHD Board as they focus on a successful transition to our new partnership with UC Health.

Serving on the PHD Board has been both an honor and a privilege. This journey has presented challenges, but it has also been deeply rewarding to witness the progress we have achieved.

I hold immense respect and gratitude for my fellow Board members, whose dedication and countless hours of service have been instrumental in supporting the Estes Park Health management team, employees, and the broader community.

Thanks to the unwavering commitment of our employees, physicians, and leadership team, EPH has made significant strides. The hospital has strengthened its financial position, making it possible to establish a meaningful partnership with UCHealth. EPH remains dedicated to delivering high-quality care while continuously seeking new ways to improve.

Internal and external communication has also greatly advanced, ensuring that employees receive timely updates about their work environment and that the community is more informed about available services.

At the heart of every decision made by our employees, management, and the Board is a singular mission: to provide high-quality, sustainable healthcare for the Estes Valley, both now and for future generations. This mission has guided us through every challenge and remains our steadfast priority.

The past few years have been marked by uncertainty, which at times created tension and made communication difficult. At the outset of this affiliation process, EPH was not widely regarded as a strong candidate for partnership. To demonstrate financial stability and meet operational goals, difficult yet necessary changes were required. While these decisions were not easy, they were critical in securing the hospital’s long-term viability.

Throughout this transition, our employees have been asked to adapt, persevere, and place their trust in the process. I fully acknowledge that change can be difficult, and I sincerely regret that some may have felt unheard or disaffected along the way. The urgency of our situation often required swift action, leaving little opportunity for prolonged deliberation.

However, every decision was made with the hospital’s long-term success in mind. Some individuals have embraced these changes, while others have found them challenging. For those who have chosen to pursue a different path, we respect your decision and extend our best wishes.

I am optimistic about the future. Our partnership with UCHealth is bringing clear goals and new opportunities, ensuring that our hospital remains strong for years to come. Change is a part of life, and our community has always faced it with strength and resilience. I am confident this partnership will provide the long-term stability our hospital needs to continue serving Estes Valley for generations.