In a significant development, the Lewis County Health System is set to receive repayment from the county for millions of dollars. The Health and Human Services Committee has approved moving $2.5 million from this year’s fund balance and an additional $1 million per year over the next two years. This money was originally borrowed from the hospital in 2018 to aid in the construction of the Jefferson Community College Education Center in Lewis County.

The funds will be used for general operations but will also specifically assist in reopening the hospital’s maternity ward. Jeff Hellinger, CFO of Lewis County Health System, expressed optimism about the potential to move forward with reopening the ward, noting that a new provider recently started.

If approved by the full board of legislators, this reimbursement will provide crucial financial support to the health system and contribute to the potential reopening of the maternity ward. This news comes as a relief for many residents in Lewis County who have been advocating for the return of maternity care services to their local hospital.