Our voice: Kennewick hospital board: McWhorter and Johnson

The Kennewick Public Hospital District Board is divided into two camps, with often a 4-3 split that has gone on so long it has defined the group.

So far, the majority of Donna Vance, Wanda Briggs, Jim Mefford and Vic Johnson have managed to stay the course, while the minority voices of Rick Reil, Marv Kinney and Kathy Davidson have questioned the hospital administration’s approach.

Now, with two board positions open, the outcome of the Nov. 3 general election could tilt the balance.

Building the new hospital at the Southridge complex was a triumph, but continuing to pay for it has been a struggle. The majority of board members say the financial situation has improved, and hospital leadership is on the right track. Others on the board disagree.

McWhorter v. Rodriguez

With the decision by board president Vance not to run for re-election, two candidates have emerged to take that open seat.

Mike McWhorter is a longtime advocate for the hospital district and was asked by Vance to run. Cedro Rodriguez is an enthusiastic newcomer publicly supported by Reil.

Rodriguez owns a window tinting company and believes his experience as a small business owner would help him address the financial issues facing the hospital district. He also is a board member of Adult Day Services and said he offers a fresh perspective and is committed to helping Trios Health thrive.

McWhorter has served on the Trios Foundation Board for 23 years and has spent his career in the insurance industry, specializing in liability insurance for physicians.

His company has Trios as a client, and Rodriguez questioned whether that was a conflict of interest. McWhorter said if elected, he would not personally handle any Trios-related insurance.

We believe him.

While Rodriguez would bring energy and a new outlook, we think that McWhorter’s background with the hospital foundation and his work in the insurance industry puts him in a better position to manage the complexities of hospital budgets. McWhorter’s expertise gives him the edge in this race.

Johnson v. Campbell

Vic Johnson has a long history on the hospital district board, serving since 1998. He is reasonable and pragmatic, and does not appear to let emotions get in the way of his decisions.

That is a trait desperately needed on the board.

Campbell is an impressive candidate. He is a retired Hanford project manager and he truly has a grasp of public policy. He has followed the issues facing the district with fervor and dedication and his concerns should not be easily dismissed.

That being said, Johnson’s experience is invaluable and his thoughtful demeanor is a plus.

The Tri-City Herald recommends Mike McWhorter and Vic Johnson for the Kennewick Public Hospital Board.

This story was originally published October 6, 2015 at 2:46 PM with the headline "Our voice: Kennewick hospital board: McWhorter and Johnson."