Indian River County Hospital District

Chairman’s Meeting: October 18, 2023

SUMMARY MINUTES
CHIARMAN’S MEETING
Indian River County Hospital District Conference Room/ Zoom
October 18, 2023

TRUSTEES: Marybeth Cunningham Kerry Bartlett Michael Kint Barb Bodnar
William Cooney Karen Deigl
Paul Westcott

STAFF: Jennifer Peshke, Esq. Jennifer Frederick
Kate Voss Frank Isele

ZOOM: Ann Marie Suriano Vicki Soule
Marie Andress Kim Jeansonne
Anne Posey Alex Greenwood
Chriss Papayannis Pat Knipper

ATTENDEES: Ann Marie McCrystal Greg Jackson Bill Stengel William Wims Kathryn Hensley Cecelia Stalnaker

Convene Meeting

Ms. Cunningham convened the meeting of the IRCHD Board of Trustees at 10:00 AM by welcoming those participating via Zoom and in person. She thanked Mr. Wims and his team for accommodating their schedules and moving their presentation to today’s meeting.

Funded Agency Semi Annual Report- New Horizons-William Wims, CEO

Mr. Wims provided an update regarding New Horizons for the last six months. He discussed some challenges and learnings that the organization has faced and explained that it has been difficult to transition staff back to working in the office. Subsequently they have ended employment for some, who were unwilling to make the transition. He then introduced to Greg Jackson, who is now serving as the chief operating officer, and comes to the organization from the managing entity Southeast Florida Behavioral Health Network. Additionally, they have hired a new medical director, Dr. Acosta, who has proven in a short time to be an invaluable asset to the organization. He explained the organization is now working on focusing their efforts to strengthen their financial position and have hired a consultant to manage those matters as well as purchasing a new accounting system. They have also corrected the issues relative to the last fiscal year audit. Their board of directors has also become more involved in the financial reporting and the New Horizons executive team meets monthly with them to provide updates.

Next, he discussed their recruitment and retention of staff, which has been a challenge for the organization over that last several years. He explained that with the onboarding of the new medical director, he has focused his effort on changing the culture within staff and he are happy to report that there is a core group of staff in place. He further stated that they are working to onboard two additional practitioners to provide services and hope to have them in place by December. Additionally, as another incentive to employees they are offering tuition reimbursement and clinical hour opportunities, which has increased employee retention and participation. Lastly, the medical director and HR director are working with the new employees and potential new hires on recruitment strategies, to keep employees engaged and motivated.

Mr. Wims then provided an update regarding the New Horizons task force, which he thanked the District for spearheading. He stated through the efforts of the task force, they are looking at ways to expand services within Indian River County and have created new relationships with local providers such as Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital (“CCIRH”). Through these meetings it was discovered that there was available clinical space in the 787 building, and they are touring the facility with representatives from CCIRH after today’s meeting. He explained that their current location in Indian River County is far west of town and traveling to the center has created barriers for those who rely on public transportation. Moving the center to the 787 building would increase access to care as it is a centrally located facility, in turn allowing New Horizons to see additional patients and utilize the funding provided by the District. There was further Trustee discussion regarding the utilization of funding and it was questioned whether New Horizons was actively searching for additional grants or philanthropic support. Mr. Wims explained they have hosted fundraising events in the past but are currently working on the internal issues within the organization before embarking on any additional marketing or fundraising initiatives. The District thanked Mr. Wims for the update and voiced their support for the organization and stated that they are pleased with the positive changes that are taking place.

Update regarding New Horizons Task Force- Kerry Bartlett, Vice Chair

Ms. Bartlett provided the board with an update regarding the New Horizons task force. She stated that the group met recently, and New Horizons presented a PowerPoint presentation, which she provided to the Trustees for their review and information. At the meeting, there were also discussions surrounding priorities for the organization and where the District could assist in achieving those goals. She explained that the next steps will be for a timeline and priority list to be developed. Additionally, she explained that strengthening the mobile response team is a priority, as well as finding more centrally located office space in Vero Beach. She stated that as Mr. Wims discussed, CCIRH and MHA have been working collaboratively with New Horizons and those partnerships are helping in assisting them strengthen their presence within the community. Mr. Bartlett then spoke about the relationship with Dr. Acosta, the new medical director, and stated that he has made a very positive impact on the organization and has an impressive work history. He has also been instrumental in working with New Horizons to recruit and attract new staff. Lastly, she stated that the task force plans to meet again for their final meetings where some recommendation will be made regarding future goals and funding and plans to provide an update to the Trustees at the November Chairmans meeting.

Update regarding Hospice House Parcel Sale- Jennifer Peshke, Esq.

Ms. Peshke provided the Trustees with an update regarding the sale of the Hospice House parcel. She stated that she has been working with VNA counsel regarding the matter. She informed the Trustees that both VNA boards approved the District sale offer of $3.8 million and the parties are working on a sale agreement, critical dates, time line and ordering a title search for the property. She explained the purpose of the title search was to make sure that the property has a clean title and there are no incumbrances prior to the sale. She provided a brief review of the closing process and stated that the District is in a good position regarding the closing. The current agreements in place state that the buyer is responsible for all closing cost, which typically are paid by the seller in these types of transactions. There was Trustee discussion and Mr. Stengel who was present at today’s meeting on behalf of the VNA, was asked if their building timeline was still on target, as presented earlier in the year. Mr. Stengel indicated that there are various items which are affecting this and explained that they are currently reviewing how much space will be needed to house their employees. Therefore, this target is evolving, and they may reduce the overall size of the building. Mr. Stengle also recommended that once the closing has commenced that the VNA and the District coordinate a public announcement and campaign to inform the community of this project. The Trustees agreed that this would be beneficial, and that District staff should coordinate efforts with the VNA on this project.

Update on Finance & Audit Committee- Michael Kint, Treasurer

Mr. Kint informed the board that the first meeting of the District’s Finance and Audit committee took place yesterday, and all members were in attendance except Jeff Smith who had a conflict. He explained that the group covered many bases regarding the group’s purpose and oversight, as well as hearing a presentation from representatives at DeepBlue regarding the Districts investment accounts. For next steps, he explained that the group plans to take a deeper look into the District’s current financial and audit policies to see what items are lacking and could be expanded upon. He further stated that Ms. Peshke plans on attending the next meeting, which is scheduled for November 14th, to provide the group with a brief overview of the Sunshine Law. He plans to update the Trustees monthly on the progress of the committee as well.

Project Update on Women’s Sober Living & Detox Center- Ann Marie Suriano

Ms. Suriano began her update by first recognizing Mr. Isele and stated that she believes he was an excellent pick as her predecessor and has enjoyed working with him over these last several weeks. She provided the Trustees with an update regarding a few items she has been working on for the District. The first being the Detox Services committee which consists of leaders from CCIRH, Substance Awareness Center, PUR Health and Wellness, Vero Beach Recovery, TCCH, Mental Health Collaborative, Southeast Florida Behavioral Network, and local law enforcement. The group has met twice and had discussions regarding the increase growth in substance misuse in the county. It was expressed during these discussions that the current providers of recovery services are trying to find appropriate inpatient care, but the capacity and distance is impossible for most people to access. In addition to building these Detox services, it has been determined that a peer program, primarily assisting law enforcement, is crucial to assisting people to successful recovery, as a support and a part of the continuum of care. She explained that current data surrounding the support and necessity of a quality, successful program continues to be collected and shared between the group members. Additionally, the Sherrif reported that he is working to obtain some of the state Opioid dollars to add 25 beds for Detox to the existing 25 medical beds in the jail. This is in partnership with TCCH as they have the contract to provide Medical, Dental and Behavioral Health services to the inmates housed in the county jail. Further there are some protocols in place between CCIRH and TCCH for overdose response and peer connection, but they currently are underutilized. She stated that Dr. Peter and CCIRH are supportive of a partnership, as they are willing to talk about how they can be part of the solution and the importance of Hospital support in medical detox. They are open to discussing how, together, they might expand the hospital campus for this purpose. Also, PUR is doing some outpatient work in the detox arena and is open to collaborating, but designated space is also a challenge for them. The group is also hoping that New Horizons could assist in this area as well and are hopeful that they will be able to occupy space within the 787 building for further development in this area. Ms. Deigl asked that Ms. Suriano include her in future communication and discussion regarding these meetings, as she would like to assist with discussion on transportation issues. Ms. Soule addressed the group and stated that while she appreciates Sherriff Flowers’ offer to house a detox facility at the jail campus, she believes that there may be some pushback from patients not wanting to receive services at that location. There was further discussion on this, and it was agreed that this matter is ongoing with details yet to be finalized regarding location, and commitment from providers.

Next Ms. Suriano provided an update regarding Women’s Sober Living Program Committee which consists of Denny Nystrom, who was the founder of Dynamic Life and continues to be a benefactor and supporter, representatives of Dynamic Life and Fellowship Recovery. The group has met twice and had discussions surrounding the team at Fellowship Recovery and their development of a very successful Women’s program and sober living environment. The main mission for the committee is to develop a place for women in Indian River County and assisting Dynamic Life, to expand into this area as they have successfully done for men in IRC. She explained that at the last meeting, Fellowship Recovery provided an outline based upon the successful model they have in the Ft. Lauderdale area which could be considered in our area, and they offered assistance in moving forward with identifying the appropriate staff and training needed. Ms. Suriano further explained that she is in the process of working with a realtor to identify potential properties and costs weighing renovation vs. new construction. She will provide the Trustees with further updates when they become available.

Other Business

Dr. Cooney stated that he would like to clarify some comments referenced in the September 20th Chairman’s meeting minutes relative to his recommendation to house a primary care clinic within the HSB. He stated that the minutes referenced that the primary reason for this was to offset the high volume of indigent patients utilizing the emergency department. He clarified that while this is a factor there are various other elements that would support the utilization of a primary care clinic within the HSB.

Ms. Cunningham stated since GlobeChek is providing their semi-annual report at tomorrow’s meeting, she wanted to provide the newer Trustees with some historical background relative to the funding of this organization. She explained that District was initially approached to fund a pilot program which would place the Globe at Whole Family Health Center and TCCH. The Globe is a vision screening tool that provides an eye exam without dilation and their goal was to offer these services to patients who otherwise would not seek eye care services. There was Trustee discussion regarding the validity of the Globe and if it was comparable to an eye exam conducted by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. There was also discussion regarding how this service was unbillable to insurance companies. The Trustees felt that they would like to have further discussions surrounding this and more clarification surrounding the Globe and its capabilities.

Public Comment & Adjourn

There was no public comment and the meeting was adjourned at 11:45 am.

WILLIAM COONEY

SEAT 7

William P Cooney MD is an orthopedic surgeon (retired) who has been a resident of Vero Beach since 2004. He practiced orthopedic surgery at Indian River Medical Center from 2006-2015 within the orthopedic practice of Prosports. He served on the IRMC Foundation for four years. Prior to this, he was a Professor of Orthopedics at Mayo Clinic in Rochester Minnesota, Chair of the Division of Hand Surgery and Vice president of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery. He served as the Vice Chairman of the Mayo Clinic Development Department. He has been President of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand, Orthopedic Research and Education Foundation, Consultant at Shrine Hospital systems. He was editor in chief of the Journal of Orthopedic Surgery and co-editor of the Journal of Hand Surgery. He held grants in hand and wrist surgery sponsored by National Institute of Health (NIH) and Stryker Orthopedics and has over 250 publications in the field of orthopedic surgery, hand, wrist and elbow surgery and microsurgery- free tissue transfers. Within Indian River County, he has served as Chairman of the Board and President of the Hope for Families Homeless Center, Board of the Indian River Hospital Foundation, We Care and Whole Family Health Center medical practices.

Term:  1/23-12/24

Origination: Elected (2 OC)

Occupation: Retired Surgeon

KERRY BARTLETT

SEAT 6

Kerry Bartlett,  of Vero Beach, has more than 30 years experience in philanthropy, including as vice president of the VNA & Hospice Foundation; VNA chief advancement officer from 2001-2007; and executive director of the Indian River Community Foundation from 2008-2014. Kerry is the founder of The Bartlett Company, which focuses on nonprofit and philanthropic consulting. She also is a managing director for Carter, a Vero Beach company that specializes in advancing philanthropy worldwide. Kerry has spent more than 25 years in the nonprofit sector as a fund development professional and has particular expertise in annual funds, major gifts, endowment campaigns and legacy giving. Kerry is also known for creating and implementing effective donor-centered stewardship programs that build, maintain and strengthen nonprofits’ relationships.

Term:  3/21-12/22   |   1/23-12/26

Origination: Appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis
Elected NOC

Occupation: Philanthropic Consultant/Managing Director

KAREN DEIGL

SEAT 5

Karen has been President and CEO of Senior Resource Association, where she successfully advocates for older adults and their families, since 2006. In that role, she helps provide activities, education and services benefiting older and disabled adults in Indian River County. In addition, Karen provides oversight of the community mass transit system for residents and visitors of the county. As CEO, Karen is responsible for a $7 million operational annual budget and managing more than 100 employees. She ensures that fiscally sound and responsible solutions are created to provide healthcare and a better quality of life for all Indian River County residents. Karen earned a BS in Health Administration from Florida Atlantic University and an MHA from the University of Florida. She was elected to the Indian River County Hospital District Board of Trustees in 2016, and joined the Board in January 2017.

Term:  1/17-12/20   |   1/21-12/24

Origination: Elected 1 OC | Elected NOC

Occupation: President/CEO

PAUL WESTCOTT

SEAT 4

Paul Westcott has been a Board Certified Workers' Compensation Attorney since 1999. In addition, Paul has earned his certification from the Florida Supreme Court as a Circuit Civil and Family Law Mediator. Receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree in both Economics and Political Science at Florida Southern College, he continued his education at Stetson University College of Law. He graduated from Stetson in 1988, having been a published member of the Stetson Law Review. Paul has been a member of the Florida Bar since 1988.  He began his practice in a combined civil litigation and transactional practice before serving as an Assistant State Attorney.  He began his career in Workers' Compensation with Rissman, Weisberg, Barrett, Hurt, Donahue & McClain P.A., where he handled Workers' Compensation cases at the trial and appellate levels.  In 1997, Paul opened the Ft. Pierce office of Hurley, Rogner, Miller, Cox, Waranch & Westcott P.A. handling workers' compensation cases at all levels throughout central and south Florida, while managing the operations of that office.  During his nearly 25 year career in Workers' Compensation, he lectured on a wide range of industry topics.


Term: 
1/23-12/26   |   1/21-12/24

Origination: Elected 1 OC 

Occupation: Attorney & Mediator

BARBARA S. BODNAR

SEAT 3

Barbara has practiced physical therapy, specializing in orthopedics and sports medicine, in her hometown of Vero Beach since 1981. She was an integral part of the sports medicine team at Vero Beach High School for 35 years. Barbara completed the reserve police academy training, and served with the Vero Beach Police Department from 1982-1989. Her volunteer involvement in the community includes serving on the City of Vero Beach Recreation Committee, Arthritis Association of Indian River County, and the Senior Good Life Games. She and her husband, Michael, enjoy spending their free time traveling in their RV and training their Labradors, Gunner and Chase, in K-9 performance events, including agility and dock jumping. Barbara is a lifelong resident of Indian River County, and received her degree in physical therapy from Chattanooga State College. Barbara was elected to the Indian River County Hospital District Board of Trustees in 2016, and joined the Board in January 2017.

Term:  1/17-12/20   |   1/21-12/24

Origination: Elected 1 OC | Elected 1 OC

Occupation: Physical Therapist

MICHAEL KINT

SEAT 2

Born and raised in Illinois, Michael was a Theatre and Speech Instructor at Lincoln College when he moved to Indian River County in 1984. He was the Director of Education for the Riverside Theatre for a decade, helping to build the Riverside Children’s Theatre and directing many productions. Michael is well known in the community for his 25 years of service at the United Way of Indian River County, 16 of those years as the CEO. He is very proud of his work with dozens of nonprofit agencies and his commitment to creating and strengthening community collaboratives. Michael was also an Adjunct Faculty member at Barry University for 20 years. He has served on many boards and committees over the years, including: Children’s Services Advisory Committee Needs Assessment, Chair of the Emergency Food and Shelter Program for many years, and he was a founding member of the Mental Health Collaborative, the Senior Collaborative of IRC and the IRC Executive Roundtable. As a Hospital District Trustee he is committed to serving all the citizens of our county. In particular, he hopes to see enhanced availability and affordability for behavioral/mental health for all in need.

 

Term: 1/23- 12/26

Origination: Elected 1 OC

Occupation: Retired CEO United Way

MARYBETH CUNNINGHAM

CHAIRWOMAN - SEAT 1

Marybeth’s professional career encompasses 34 years of working for GM/Delphi in a variety of positions. Starting out as a traffic claims clerk, she worked her way through the organization, with roles in Purchasing, Engineering, and Quality and Reliability. She retired in 2009 as the executive director of Global Operations for the Packard Electric Division of Delphi. In this position, she was responsible for 94 plants in 33 countries. Marybeth has served on the board of directors for numerous non-profits, including Northeast Ohio Adoption Agency; United Way of Warren Ohio, where she served as chairman of the annual campaign for two years; Up with People; Head, Heart and Hands of Indian River Club; Indian River Community Foundation, and the Indian River Mental Health Collaborative. She earned her B.A. in Political Science from Albion College. Marybeth was elected to the Indian River County Hospital District Board of Trustees in 2014, and joined the Board in January 2015. She currently serves as Chair.

 

Term:  1/15-12/18   |   1/19-12/22   |   1/23- 12/24

Origination: Elected 1 OC | Elected  NOC | Elected NOC

Occupation: Retired Executive GM