Three Rivers Hospital seeks renewal of emergency room levy

BREWSTER — Three Rivers Hospital is asking voters to renew its one-year emergency room levy in the Aug. 4 primary election, seeking continued support for the tax measure that funds around-the-clock physician staffing in the hospital's emergency department.

The measure would authorize collection of approximately $1.46 million in 2027 through a levy rate of 33 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value, the same rate approved by voters each year since 2020. Because it is classified as an excess levy, the measure must be renewed annually and requires 60% voter approval to pass.

Hospital officials said the levy is separate from the district's permanent operating levy and is dedicated specifically to maintaining 24-hour emergency room coverage with physicians.

"The community has shown up for this levy every year since 2020, and we're grateful for that consistent support," Chief Executive Officer J. Scott Graham said. "That trust is something we take seriously. This renewal allows us to continue the level of emergency care our patients and families have come to rely on."

Emergency Room Director Dr. Joshua Corsa said the levy helps the hospital provide modern, life-saving care close to home.

Chief Nursing Officer Christine Smith said continued voter support has helped sustain the staffing, equipment and resources needed to provide timely emergency services across the district.

For a home assessed at $300,000, the hospital estimates the levy would cost approximately $99 per year. If approved, the levy would be collected in 2027 only.

Three Rivers Hospital serves residents of south Okanogan County, north Douglas County and the Methow Valley through Okanogan Douglas County Public Hospital District No. 1, which covers approximately 2,500 square miles.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media