With a 2-3 vote Tuesday, the Washington County Board of Supervisors failed to approve a motion to partner with Washington County Hospital and Clinics on a loan agreement. Supervisors Stan Stoops, Bob Yoder and Abe Miller did not vote in favor of the resolution.

Supervisor Chairman Jack Seward said he supports an opportunity partner with the hospital and help all of those in the county, including the residents who use services at WCHC. Supervisor Richard Young added the hospital is probably one of the biggest employers in the county so it also plays a part in local jobs.

Had the agreement been approved, the county hospital would have saved approximately $3.8 million in interest. The county would have held the $14.3 million in general obligation bonds and WCHC would have paid them at a lower interest rate than what they’re currently under. CEO of WCHC Dennis Hunger explained the hospital board approached the county to do this after learning it could lower their interest rate by about 1.5 percent.

The supervisors began this effort with the hospital in August, approving previous steps in the process. KCII News will provide more information as it becomes official.