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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-01-20 Council Mtg MIN ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS MEETING MINUTES Tuesday,January 20,2026 I. EXECUTIVE SESSION 5:00 p.m. a. To conduct deliberations with persons designated by the governing body to carry on labor negotiations pursuant to ORS 192.660 (2)(d). b. To consult with counsel concerning the legal rights and duties of a public body with regard to current litigation or litigation likely to be filed pursuant to ORS 192.660 (2)(h). Mayor Graham and Councilors Dahle,DuQuenne, Hansen, Kaplan, and Sherrell were present. City staff Johan Pietila, Carmel Zahran, Sabrina Cotta, and Alissa Kolodzinski were present. II. Business Meeting 6:00 pm Council Present: Mayor Graham, Councilors Sherrell, Bloom, Kaplan, DuQuenne, and Hansen. Dahle appeared via Zoom. Council Absent: None Staff Present: Sabrina Cotta City Manager Johan Pietila City Attorney Carmel Zarhan Assistant Deputy Attorney Alissa Kolodzinski City Recorder Scott Fleury Public Works Director Graham called the meeting to order at 6:08 p.m. a. Land Acknowledgement" Kaplan read the land acknowledgement. III. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Hansen led the pledge of allegiance. IV. ROLL CALL V. MAYOR'S CHAIR OF THE COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENT Graham announced the upcoming annual Town Hall scheduled for the following evening at 5:30 PM at high school theatre. She thanked community members and organizations that hosted the celebration for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and gave special recognition to DuQuenne for her work on the event. a. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Proclamation - the proclamation was read into the record. VI. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. Minutes of the December 15, 2025 - Study Session Meeting b. Minutes of the December 16, 2025 - Business Meeting c. Minutes of the December 17, 2025 - Special Study Session Business Meeting January 20,2026 Page 1 of 5 Hansen moved to approve the minutes of Dec 15,16&17 as in the agenda packet.Kaplan seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote:Sherrell,Dahle,Bloom,DuQuenne,Kaplan,and Hansen-YES. Motion passed. VII. CONSENT AGENDA a. Committee Appointments and Reappointment b. Jackson County Jurisdictional Transfer of Roadways Item b was removed from the consent agenda to be discussed under unfinished business. DuQuenne moved to approve item a on the consent agenda.Bloom seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote:Sherrell,Dahle,Bloom,Kaplan,DuQuenne,and Hansen-YES. Motion passed. Vill. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS IX. PUBLIC FORUM- Graham clarified for the audience that the city does not own the hospital buildings and has a limited contractual relationship with Asante,with no ability to compel them to maintain services. Nineteen community members spoke during public forum.The majority addressed concerns about Asante's planned changes to the Ashland Hospital, particularly the elimination of the obstetrics department and inpatient care. Speakers included healthcare professionals, residents who had received care at the hospital,and concerned citizens. It was requested that the Council schedule a public meeting about the hospital changes with the city attorney and Asante representatives. Additional topics raised included concerns about the use of herbicides, opposition to the FCC's proposed bill,and support for the Trusted Homes community land trust project. X. PUBLIC HEARING a. First Reading of Ordinance 3282 Creating Section 2.55 of the Ashland Municipal Code: Disposal of Real Property Zahran presented an ordinance establishing procedures for the disposal of real property.Zahran explained that the Legal Department had prepared two versions - a "legal requirements"version and a more detailed "process"version. She outlined the goals of the ordinance: ensuring legal compliance, administrative efficiency,and promoting transparency.Pietila added that having a formal process in place would help the city maintain consistency in how it handles property sales across different councils and administrations. During discussion, councilors raised concerns about potentially limiting future councils'flexibility with overly specific language, such as the section listing factors that could be considered for below- market-value property sales.The council considered removing the specific list or adding "including but not limited to" language to maintain flexibility. Public hearing open No speakers Business Meeting January 20,2026 Page 2 of 5 Public hearing closed After extensive discussion,the Council directed staff to return with a revised version of the ordinance that includes the phrase"including but not limited to" before the list of considerations for below- market-value property sales. Staff were also directed to prepare a separate resolution containing the process elements, rather than codifying them in the ordinance. XI. ORDINANCES,RESOLUTIONS AND CONTRACTS a. Approval of a Construction & Maintenance Agreement and Reimbursement Payment Contract with Central Oregon & Pacific Railroad (CORP) for the N. Mountain Avenue Overlay, Phase 11 Project (PW 2021-03) Fleury presented a request to approve a reimbursement payment to Central Oregon & Pacific Railroad (CORP) for improvements to the North Mountain Avenue railroad crossing as part of the North Mountain Avenue Overlay Phase 2 project. Fleury noted that CORP owns the track and right-of-way, controlling the process, and the city would be reimbursing them for the work. Fleury spoke of unconfirmed reports that CORP may no longer use the track section between Ashland and Yreka in the future,though they might occasionally use it to bring deicer to the ODOT facility. If confirmed,the city would negotiate to reduce the scope of work to only include essential hardscape improvements and pedestrian crossing enhancements, and not the full electrical signaling upgrades. Several councilors expressed concerns about approving the full contract amount given the uncertainty. Councilors suggested pausing until more information was available,expecially with potential facility planning that might affect traffic patterns in the area. Councilors asked about the city's ability to terminate the contract if circumstances changed. Fleury clarified with the Council that the city could terminate the agreement with written notice and would do so if CORP insisted on full improvements that were no longer warranted. Hansen moved to approve the reimbursement payment contract with Central Oregon&Pacific Railroad for the North Mountain Avenue Overlay Project for a contract amount not to exceed $1,185,843 that is based on the current Construction&Maintenance Agreement.Sherrell seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote:Hansen,Sherrell,and Kaplan-YES. Dahle,DuQuenne,and Bloom - NO. Graham -YES.Motion passed. b. Second Reading of Ordinance 3275 Amending AMC 10.68 Public Parks to Include Provision for Special-Use Permitted Activity Cotta reminded the Council that this ordinance cleanup would allow for more activity under special use permits within parks by providing greater flexibility for event organizers.The first reading had been approved on December 16, 2025,with no changes.Council noted that they had seen how these changes have already improved livability in the parks, referencing the Epic Ashland concerts with food trucks held the previous summer. Business Meeting January 20,2026 Page 3 of 5 Hansen moved to approve the second reading of AMC Ordinance 3275:An Ordinance relating to public parks to include provision for special use permitted activity; repealing and replacing AMC Chapter 10.68.Kaplan seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote:Bloom,Sherrell,Dahle,DuQuenne,Hansen,and Kaplan-YES. Motion passed. XII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Item b. from the consent agenda: Jackson County Jurisdictional Transfer of Roadways Fleury explained that the jurisdictional transfer of the frontage along East Main Street was a requirement from Jackson County as part of the annexation process for the East Main Street Park property.Jackson County's standards do not allow access from a major road when access from a minor road is available, but the park needs access from East Main Street. After the improvements are completed and the park is operational,the city could request a speed zoning study to potentially reduce speed limits in the area for safety. Kaplan moved to approve Resolution 2026-01,requesting surrender by Jackson County to the City of Ashland all right,title,interest,jurisdiction, maintenance,and control of all subject exchange road sections to the city.DuQuenne seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote:Sherrell,Bloom,Dahle,DuQuenne,Hansen,and Kaplan-YES.Motion passed. Council took a short recess. XIII. NEW BUSINESS a. Council Liaison Appointments Graham noted two additions to what were included in the packet: the 2200 ad hoc committee will be represented by Graham, DuQuenne, and Bloom; and added Bloom back to the childcare ad hoc committee along with DuQuenne. Bloom moved to approve the Council liaison appointments as discussed.Kaplan seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote:Sherrell,Bloom,Dahle,DuQuenne,Hansen,and Kaplan-YES. Motion passed. b. Chair of the City Council Election Bloom nominated Dahle for the position of Council Chair. Dahle accepted the nomination. Bloom moved to confirm Jeff Dahle as Chair of the Council for one year.DuQuenne seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote:DuQuenne,Hansen,Kaplan,Sherrell,and Bloom-YES. Motion passed. c. Ratification of the 3-Year Labor Agreement with IAFF Local 1269 Business Meeting January 20,2026 Page 4 of 5 Cotta explained the need to re-ratify the agreement due to clerical errors in the previously approved agreement with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 1269. Kaplan moved to approve the three-year labor agreement with IAFF Local 1269 and authorize the City Manager to sign the three-year agreement.Sherrell seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote:Hansen, Kaplan,Sherrell,Bloom,and Dahle-YES.DuQuenne-NO.Motion passed. XIV. CITY MANAGER REPORT- a. Look Ahead • The town hall scheduled for the following day • A joint study session with the Planning Commission on January 27 • A discussion of administrative charter changes on February 2 • A joint meeting with the Ashland Parks and Recreation Commission on February 11 • No study session on February 16 due to Presidents' Day • Executive director of OSF will provide an update to council on February 3 b. January City Manager Report • Social service grant program and affordable housing trust fund RFPs are due February 20 • Free home energy scores available through May • Implementation of the SeeClickFix program for reporting issues has been a success • The "If I Were Mayor" contest for Ashland students in grades 4-12 is live XV. OTHER BUSINESS FROM COUNCIL MEMBERS/REPORTS FROM COUNCIL LIAISONS XVI. ADJOURNMENT Bloom moved to adjourn.The motion was seconded by DuQuenne. All Ayes. Motion passed. The meeting was adjourned at 8:37 p.m. City Recorder Alissa Kolodzinski Mayor Tonya Graham Business Meeting January 20,2026 Page 5 of 5 City Council Liaison Assignments January 12, 2026 Commissions & Standing Advisory Committees 2026 First Assignment 2026 Second Assignment Parks & Recreation Commission(City Charter Hansen Bloom Planning Commission Dahle Climate and Environmental Policy Kaplan Dahle Historic Preservation Sherrell Housing and Human Services Kaplan Sherrell Public Art DuQuenne Social Equity and Racial Justice Dahle DuQuenne Transportation Hansen DuQuenne City Ad Hoc Committees 2026 First Assignment 2026 Second Assignment Ashland Water Advisory Committee—Dormant this year NA NA Early Learning Committee DuQuenne 2200 Ashland Street Phase 2 Graham,DuQuenne Bloom Regional Boards & Committees 2026 First Assignment 2026 Second Assignment Chamber of Commerce/Travel Ashland Sherrell Dahle Rogue Valley Council of Governments RVCOG DuQuenne Jackson County Continuum of Care Kaplan Rogue Valley Metropolitan Planning Or RVMPO Bloom Rogue Valley Transportation District RVTD Bloom Southern Oregon Regional Economic Development Inc. Sherrell Local Public Safety Coordinating Council Graham State & National Boards and Committees 2026 First Assignment 2026 Second Assignment League of Oregon Cities General Government Comm. Chair Graham Page 1 of 2 From: noreolv(dcivicDlus.com To: Ashland City Recorder Subject: Online Forth Submittal:City Council Public Comment Form Date: Monday,January 19,2026 12:47:09 PM [EXTERNAL SENDER] City Council Public Comment Form Public Comment Use this form to submit public comment for City Council meetings. This form must be submitted by 10 a.m. the day of the meeting to be on the record. If you wish to speak to the Council in person at a meeting, you must fill out a Speaker Request form available on-site. Do not use this form. Full Name Scott Calamar Meeting Date January 20, 2026 Email Address Are you a City of Yes Ashland resident? Indicate if you want to Written provide written testimony, or if you want to speak via Zoom. Which agenda item Asante/Ashland Hospital would you like to address? Comments (Leave this Dear council members, section blank if you are requesting to speak As a longtime citizen of Ashland, I request that you hold Asante electronically.) to the conditions of their 2013 purchase agreement to keep the hospital open—without a reduction in services—through 2028. Further, I request that a committee be organized to explore the repurchase of the local hospital or resale to other another health organization that will retain it as a community hospital. An additional option is to require Asante to provide transportation from the Ashland facility to the Medford facility on a frequent basis. I also request a land use review of what will be done with the facility. Asante owns a number of buildings in Ashland. Will all the satellite offices of physicians in Ashland be relocated to the main Ashland hospital campus if Asante's downsizing plans go through? (I cannot attend the meeting of January 20.) Thank you very much, Scott Calamar Upload a file or image Field not completed. Email not displaying correctly?View it in your browser. From: noreoly(abcivicolus.com To: Ashland City Recorder Subject: Online Form Submittal:City Council Public Comment Form Date: Sunday,December 28,2025 5:04:12 PM [EXTERNAL SENDER] City Council Public Comment Form Public Comment Use this form to submit public comment for City Council meetings. This form must be submitted by 10 a.m. the day of the meeting to be on the record. If you wish to speak to the Council in person at a meeting, you must fill out a Speaker Request form available on-site. Do not use this form. Full Name JAMES_EVANHOE Meeting Date January 2027 Email Address Are you a City of Yes Ashland resident? Indicate if you want to Written provide written testimony, or if you want to speak via Zoom. Which agenda item Moving OSF Off of City owned property 3 new theaters would you like to address? Comments (Leave this Since 2022 OSF failure which still is happening its past time to section blank if you are have them use the 3 older theaters they own property included requesting to speak and let the citizens and businesses see Trade Shows sports gear electronically.) to vehicles, concerts to variety shows. OSF failure the entire business community not including Covid 2 years has lost One Billion Dollars in revenue and taxes. They use to bring in 340,000 annually, but their productions and types of talent only 40,000. None of our annual nightly guests have ever returned. That number is 3,250 nightly guests in that 1400 couples. Since 2019 not one of those annual guests has returned to Ashland or OSF. FOR US the exact financial loss is $750,000.00 2022-2025. Enough is Enough OSf can use their own property and 4 theaters. Their numbers require the City Council either protect businesses or get completely out of the way. Representing many business owners we want to see the 3 theaters on Ashland City property making great money and bring 100,000s more tourists visitors to Ashland and our property. Don't want them and 4 years of failure has become a major liability for all of us who live full time, manage businesses and pay City taxes property tax and sale tax. Again OSF HAS FAILED ANNUALLY WE WANT TOP QUALITY TRADE SHOWS AND CONCERTS NOT OSF. Upload a file or image Field not completed. Email not displaying correctly?View it in your browser. From: noreDlv(abcivicnlus.com To: Ashland City Recorder Subject: Online Form Submittal:City Council Public Comment Form Date: Friday,January 16,2026 8:44:39 AM [EXTERNAL SENDER] City Council Public Comment Form Public Comment Use this form to submit public comment for City Council meetings. This form must be submitted by 10 a.m. the day of the meeting to be on the record. If you wish to speak to the Council in person at a meeting, you must fill out a Speaker Request form available on-site. Do not use this form. Full Name Daniel Cooke Meeting Date 1/16/2026 Email Address Are you a City of Yes Ashland resident? Indicate if you want to Written provide written testimony, or if you want to speak via Zoom. Which agenda item Please Protect the Tree of Hope would you like to address? Comments (Leave this I read about the grand 250 year old Cottonwood, "Tree of Hope," section blank if you are located at 380 Clay Street. Then I went down and looked at it. It requesting to speak is indeed immense and spectacular. Saving and protecting that electronically.) tree(plus the Great Horned Owl that inhabits it) should absolutely be a priority for all concerned. While we suffer through the deterioration of our Federal government, protecting a tree that is as old as our nation is a proper Ashland way to celebrate the semiquincentennial of the United States. Please Protect the Tree of Hope! Daniel Cooke From: noreplyCalcivicolus.com To: Ashland City Recorder Subject: Online Form Submittal:City Council Public Comment Form Date: Sunday,December 28,2025 5:04:12 PM [EXTERNAL SENDER] City Council Public Comment Form Public Comment Use this form to submit public comment for City Council meetings. This form must be submitted by 10 a.m. the day of the meeting to be on the record. If you wish to speak to the Council in person at a meeting, you must fill out a Speaker Request form available on-site. Do not use this form. Full Name JAME� EVANHOE Meeting Date January 2027 Email Address Are you a City of Yes Ashland resident? Indicate if you want to Written provide written testimony, or if you want to speak via Zoom. Which agenda item Moving OSF Off of City owned property 3 new theaters would you like to address? Comments (Leave this Since 2022 OSF failure which still is happening its past time to section blank if you are have them use the 3 older theaters they own property included requesting to speak and let the citizens and businesses see Trade Shows sports gear electronically.) to vehicles, concerts to variety shows. OSF failure the entire business community not including Covid 2 years has lost One Billion Dollars in revenue and taxes. They use to bring in 340,000 annually, but their productions and types of talent only 40,000. None of our annual nightly guests have ever returned. That number is 3,250 nightly guests in that 1400 couples. Since 2019 not one of those annual guests has returned to Ashland or OSF. FOR US the exact financial loss is $750,000.00 2022-2025. Enough is Enough OSf can use their own property and 4 theaters. Their numbers require the City Council either protect businesses or get completely out of the way. Representing many business owners we want to see the 3 theaters on Ashland City property making great money and bring 100,OOOs more tourists visitors to Ashland and our property. Don't want them and 4 years of failure has become a major liability for all of us who live full time, manage businesses and pay City taxes property tax and sale tax. Again OSF HAS FAILED ANNUALLY WE WANT TOP QUALITY TRADE SHOWS AND CONCERTS NOT OSF. Upload a file or image Field not completed. Email not displaying correctly?View it in your browser. From: noreoly(akivicplus.com To: Ashland City Recorder Subject: Online Form Submittal:City Council Public Comment Form Date: Monday,January 19,2026 1:08:27 PM [EXTERNAL SENDER] City Council Public Comment Form Public Comment Use this form to submit public comment for City Council meetings. This form must be submitted by 10 a.m. the day of the meeting to be on the record. If you wish to speak to the Council in person at a meeting, you must fill out a Speaker Request form available on-site. Do not use this form. Full Name Fernando Gapasin Meeting Date January 20,2026 Email Address Are you a City of Yes Ashland resident? Indicate if you want to Written provide written testimony, or if you want to speak via Zoom. Which agenda item would you like to address? Comments (Leave this Closure of Ashland Community Hospital run by Asante. section blank if you are The availability and quality of the hospital was a primary reason requesting to speak for my wife and I relocating to Ashland when we retired. And electronically.) because of our many healthcare needs we moved within blocks of the hospital. My wife, JoAnn, and I were both shocked and speechless when we heard our hospital was closing. We realize that Asante is a for profit outfit and as our reseach reflects it is still making money from our Ashland Community Hospital. We have also learned Asante has guaranteed service to Ashland until 2028. We have had to use the Emergency Room at the Community Hospital three times in the last year. My wife and I need our Community Hospital, and we require our City Council to do everything it can to keep it here. Fernando Gapasin and JoAnn Sustrick Upload a file or image Field not completed. Email not displaying correctly?View it in your browser. From: To: City o Ashland Pu lic Testimony Subject: ASHLAND HOSPITAL CLOSURE Date: Wednesday,January 14,2026 10:13:01 AM [EXTERNAL SENDER] To Whom It May Concern. As a life long citizen of the Rogue Valley and of Ashland since 1974. I have been fortunate to have gratefully received the care and services many times at the Ashland Community Hospital for myself,husband, mother,children and grandchildren, I am so dismayed that the present full services are about to end. This is not just a loss for the citizens of Ashland but also for citizens in the broader area of the Rogue Valley, Southern Oregon and Northern California. If you haven't already watched this documentary produced for the 100th anniversary of the hospital, I invite you to please do so. It is inspiring to see the history,dedication and fortitude of the City of Ashland and its citizens to creatively overcome the hurdles of having a community hospital. Surely our generation can find a way forward too. Best, Barbara Heyerman Ashland, Or HospitalA Century of Caring. Ashland Community 00 youtube.com Sent from my Wad From: noreoly(a)civicplus.com To: Ashland City Recorder Subject: Online Form Submittal:City Council Public Comment Form Date: Monday,January 19,2026 6:14:48 PM [EXTERNAL SENDER] City Council Public Comment Form Public Comment Use this form to submit public comment for City Council meetings. This form must be submitted by 10 a.m. the day of the meeting to be on the record. If you wish to speak to the Council in person at a meeting, you must fill out a Speaker Request form available on-site. Do not use this form. Full Name Lauri Hoagland Meeting Date 1/20/26 Email Address Are you a City of Yes Ashland resident? Indicate if you want to Written provide written testimony, or if you want to speak via Zoom. Which agenda item Asante proposed changes to Asante Ashland Community would you like to Hospital address? Comments (Leave this Field not completed. section blank if you are requesting to speak electronically.) Upload a file or image Testimony for Ashland City Council 1 20 26 (1).docx Email not displaying correctly?View it in your browser. Rogue Valley Healthcare for All Oregon is a local nonprofit in Southern Oregon. Our mission is to advocate for an equitable,affordable, comprehensive,high-quality publicly funded universal health care system in Oregon. We insist that Asante honor its 2013 agreement with the community of Ashland to continue through 2028 to provide general hospital services, including birthing, in-patient and surgical services,to the residents of Ashland. Ashland Community Hospital has been an essential service in our community since 1907. Importantly,the Ashland city charter, grants the city of Ashland the authority and direction to maintain a hospital within the city limits of our community. We hope, as elected officials,you will honor this responsibility by insisting that ASANTE follow the conditions set forth in the 2013 agreement. The Ashland birthing center,providing a water birth option and doulas, is unique in this region of Oregon. More than 200 births occurred at the hospital last year. Medford will not be able to offer these services in their current form. Moving in-patient services 11 miles away will impose unnecessary hardship and potentially life- threatening consequences on Ashland residents,particularly the elderly who represent 30 percent of our community's population. Just a year ago ASANTE had begun a process that included broad stakeholder input and concluded that inpatient services and birthing services would, in fact, be expanded. Just 12 months later, without any discussion with the hospital staff or our community,ASANTE has abruptly reversed course. ASANTE claims that Asante Ashland Community Hospital has lost millions of dollars,however, state maintained financial data indicates that Ashland's operations remain relatively stable. In fact,the data from the Oregon Health Authority says that"Asante Ashland Community Hospital itself made millions of dollars in 2024 and continued doing so through the first half of 2025,with operating margins that outpaced those of most hospitals in the state." This financial discrepancy is unsettling;we deserve to know the real reasoning behind this decision. Oregon's constitution, as amended in 2022, says that access to cost-effective, clinically appropriate healthcare is a fundamental right for every resident in our state. In the spirit of this mandate, changes in hospital services should include input from Oregon residents. From: noreoly(d)civicDlus.com To: Ashland City Recorder Subject: Online Form Submittal:City Council Public Comment Form Date: Monday,January 19,2026 9:30:15 PM [EXTERNAL SENDER] City Council Public Comment Form Public Comment Use this form to submit public comment for City Council meetings. This form must be submitted by 10 a.m. the day of the meeting to be on the record. If you wish to speak to the Council in person at a meeting, you must fill out a Speaker Request form available on-site. Do not use this form. Full Name Andrew C. Seles Meeting Date January 20, 2026 Email Address Are you a City of Yes Ashland resident? Indicate if you want to Written provide written testimony, or if you want to speak via Zoom. Which agenda item Asante Ashland Community Hospital Closure of Services would you like to address? Comments (Leave this I had a specialized surgical procedure in Seattle, Washington section blank if you are that required pneumatic compression devices that squeezed the requesting to speak legs to mimic normal muscle movement that boosts blood flow electronically.) and, importantly, prevents dangerous blood clots like Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolisms. Because I was under anesthesia I was unaware that the cuffs either deflated or were, in fact, never turned on. A few days later, back in Ashland, I was admitted to the Emergency Room at Asante Ashland Community Hospital with an acute pulmonary embolism. Had it not been for the fact that the hospital was literally minutes from my door, I would not be testifying today. (With a pulmonary embolism, you have no time to waste; shortness of breath, chest pain or rapid heart rate can result in permanent damage or death. You must be treated with blood thinners or clot-dissolving drugs. A clot blocking the main pulmonary artery can be fatal in as little as 30 minutes. Many seniors, like myself, cannot afford the time it would take to get to Medford and I fear lives will, in fact, be lost with the closure of inpatient services. Upload a file or image Field not completed. Email not displaying correctly?View it in your browser. SPEAKER REQUEST FORM Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date: ( , V Name: (PI ase Pri t) U As and Residen : -72 �j YES NO City: I V Agenda Topic/Item Number: Public Forum Topic Non-ag nda ke ): (2 Please respect the order of proceedings and strictly follow the directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the building. SPEAKER REQUEST FORM Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date: Name: ilea tint)',/ v �(57 4� 9 Ashland Resident: YES NO City: Agenda Topicjlte Number: Public Forum Topic (N n-agenda Item) Please respect the order of proceedings and strictly follow the directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the building. SPEAKER REQUEST FORM AMSubmit this form to the meeting Secretary prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date art ar o2 0J zoo Name: (Please P t) _P /,'+' U L. V Ashland Resident: U2/�S Ej NO City: Agenda Topic/Item Number: Public Forum --Topic (Non-agenda Item). �aOpZ Please respect the order of proceedings and strictly folio he directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the building. SPEAKER REQUEST FORM Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date: zD .zto Name: (Please Print) �STa m5 A46 Ashl d Resident: YES NO City: Agenda Topic/Item Number: G ublic Forum Topic (Non-agenda Item): Please respect the order of proceedings and strictly follow the directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the building. SPEAKER REQUEST FORM Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date: Name: (Please Print) 6 file n4A, tJ_ Ashland Resident: YES NO City: Agenda Topic/Item Number: 11-110-H"P tl--f Publ Fr m Topic (Non-agenda Item): Please respect the order of proceedings and strictly follow the directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the building. SPEAKER REQUEST FORM Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date://�/1 �4 Name: (Please Print) 5 Ashland Resident: 1 YES NO City: Agenda Topic/Item Number: Public Forum Topic (Non-agenda Item): -rw 6 _a C 4K Please respect the order of proceedings and strictly follow the directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the building. 4 SPEAKER REQUEST FORM Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date: Name: (Please Print) Ashland Resident: fE�YES NO City: Agenda Topic/Item Number: Public Forum To i (No -agenda Item): Please respect the order of proceedings and strictly follow the directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the building. SPEAKER REQUEST FORM Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date: Nam : (Please Print) ts� v, Ashland Resident: YES NO City: Agenda Topic/Item Number: Public Forum Topic (Non-agenda Item): Please respect the order of oceedings and strictly follow the directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the building. SPEAKER REQUEST FORM IF,k_1 Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date: Name: (Please Print) CR, Ashland Resident: YES NO City: Agenda Topic/Item Number: Public Forum Topic (Non-agenda Item): 1'V05 �6� \ © -i')-P Please respect the order of proceedings and strictly follow the directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the building. SPEAKER REQUEST FORM Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date: / Zo z � Name: (Please Print) / Ashland Resident: RYES ❑ NO City: Agenda Topic/Item Number: Public Forum Topic (Non-agenda Item): 09* Plea a resp e order of pro eedings and strictly follow the directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the building. ,A SPEAKER REQUEST FORM ,� Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date: Name: (Please Print) Ashland Resident: U YES ❑ NO City: Agenda Topic/Item ber: et S Public Forum++ Topic (INon-alglenda em): S l �`� -S Please respect the order of proceedings nd strictly follow the directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the building. SPEAKER REQUEST FORM Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date: i IW` z4 Name: (Please Print) Ashland Resident: ® YES NO City: Agenda Topic/Item Number: Public Forum Topic (Non-agenda Item): A`7 kt -A O b barn W u N ,T4 �os J°, TAr_ Please respect the order of proceedings and strictly follow the directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the building. SPEAKER REQUEST FORM Submit this form to the meeting Secretary WrIM401 prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date: Jan 2� , 2v 2co Name: (Please Print) Br�Grn�- ���v. �2 l 10�►.� Ashland Resident: YES NO City: Agenda Topic/Item Number: Public Forum Topic (N(: n-agenda Item): Please respect the order of proceedings and ictly follow the directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the b6lding. ,& SPEAKER REQUEST FORM ,�, Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date: Na : (Please Print) Ashland Reside YES NO City: Agen a Topic/Item Number: Public Forum Topic (Non-agenda Item): Please respect the order of proceedings and strictly follow the directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the building. SPEAKER REQUEST FORM Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date: l 2b 2-VoZ(v Name: (Please Print) o v Ashland Resident: pj YES ❑ NO City: Agenda Topic/Item Number: 0 k-)f V EU /�-B j5, St_� P�(�4�; Public Forum Topic (Non-agenda Item): Please respect the order of proceedings and strictly follow the directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the building. SPEAKER REQUEST FORM Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date: Name: (P ease Print) Ashland Resident: AYES NO City: Agenda Topic/Item Number: Public Forum Topic (Non-agenda Item): L4 2! Please respect the orde proceedings and strictly follow the directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the building. SPEAKER REQUEST FORM ,,� Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date: Name: (Please Print) Ashland Resident: YES NO City: Agenda Topic/Item Number: Public Forum Topic (Non-agenda Item): Please respect the order of proceedings and strictly follow the directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the building. SPEAKER REQUEST FORM Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date: w0-6 Name: (Please Print) K zc-'rc.,' Pb 4_1� Ashland Resident: FR YES NO City: Agenda Topic/Item Number: Public Forum Topic (Non-agenda Item): Please respect the order of proceedings and strictly follow the directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the building. SPEAKER REQUEST FORM Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date: Name: (Please Print) Kello M0'Kn )+) N Ashland Resident: YES ❑ NO City: Agenda Topic/Item Nu be . eS I Publi Forum Topi IV"' ANon-agernda Item): i" __N Please respect the order of proceedings and strictly follow the directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the building. or" SPEAKER REQUEST FORM Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date: Name: (Please Print) 6 ,g nA Ashland Resident: 0_IYES ❑ NO City: Agenda Topic/Item Number: Public Forum To (Non-agenda item): —pr; r /-(Z� S F( Please respect the order of proceedings and strictly follow the directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the building. SPEAKER REQUEST FORM Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior to the discussion item. 1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak 2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone 3) Limit your comments to the time allotted 4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary 5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement Date: 5� n zv -.o z,, Name: (Please Print) UW5 Vj Zoe Ashland Resident: 4 YES NO City: Agelnda ToQpiicJ/Item Number: j, r p Public Forum To pic (Non-agenda Item): Ah /s rn d Avt nI v IV/ YC-S P 1 �, Please respect the order of procLgedings and strictly follow the directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be requested to leave. Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene, vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be requested to sit down or leave the building. Paul Mozina 2025-2027 Biennial Budget January 20, 2026 In the process of adopting the 2025-2027 biennial budget, the Ashland City Council violated the Ashland Municipal Code, Oregon Revised Statues and the Ashland Charter. This is the state of the City of Ashland Oregon: lawless and unaccountable. The council and administration are acting as if they are above the law, and this behavior warrants our vigilant attention to everything they are doing. I will not remain silent while being lied to. Please read my series articles on The Ashland Chronicle regarding this. Rules for Thee But Not For Me https://theashiandchronicle.com/guest-opinion-rules-for-thee-but-not-for-me- city-council-budget-misconduct City Council Violates ORS and Ashland Charter & What is the 10% Rule? https://theashiandchronicle.com/guest-opinion-ashland-city-council-violates- oregon-revised-statutes-ashland-charter What Is Wrong with Amending the Budget at a Study Session? https://theashiandchronicle.com/guest-opinion-part-3-what-is-wrong-with- amending-the-budget-at-a-study-session/ Why Won't the Ashland City Council Answer Two Simple Questions? https://theashlandchronicle.com/guest-opinion-why-wont-ashland-councilors- a n swe r-tw o-s i m p l e-q u e st i o n s/ Is the Ashland Charter Enforceable? https://theashlandchronicle.com/guest-opinion-is-the-ashland-charter- enforceable A y `•4' :�. � A-.•,i1 .-'"S7, z�` r),. .p' :3'/`i ''.er ..^cif .'i(. � .- :t`> t`�;TY il. _ _ i•r .r�'i;. r�Eil :'�:.5: ri,. �'. :,ji#'f,.A .r.... ):��.✓;trt: �,., .I.`<! .1 r .}'; .'' r `:i R', r s i f �J' �;'i a' •'y f i ¢.�, *t•t3 j-4r _1 R l;A` zi t}'^, � F`� !d '0 t 3: .. �.4.•,cs : `�t'A.,s, � s Paul Mozina 2025-2027 Biennial Budget January 20, 2026 Why I Care About Misconduct in Ashland City Hall https://theashIandchronicle.com/why-i-care-about-misconduct-in-city-hall Ashland City Council 20 Jan 2026 Thank you Mayor Graham and members of Council for your time. My name is John Maurer working on my second fifty years as a Physician and Surgeon here in Ashland. When I came to you in early August of 2024 1 spoke of the lack of transparency afforded by Asante concerning the future of Ashland Community Hospital. 1 listed the discrepancies existing between Asante's rhetoric and their actions. Fifteen months ago Asante was on the brink of breaching its contract with the City in which Asante had agreed to maintain ACH as a general hospital until at least July 2028. 1 made the point to you that such a breach demanded Asante to remit four million dollars to the City payable within 60 days of the facility no longer being a general hospital As of the first of April of this year the good people of Ashland will no longer be able to take either their first or last breaths in a hospital where the bookends of life have been ongoing for the last one hundred and twenty years. This tragic loss has happened on your watch. I've been advised from several well vetted sources that our newest City Attorney is exceptionally gifted in contract law and is as focused on our 4 million as a bird dog sniffing a Chukar in the Juniper. It is my plea to you today that the proceeds of the contract default be placed in a fund restricted to the restoration of our hospital to general hospital status. As I read the tea leaves, the Asante flag will fail to wave beyond the next three years. Deeper pockets will emerge to purchase the pieces. At that time it would be nice for the city to have $4 million in negotiating cash at the ready to facilitate the resurrection of our hospital. Thanks for your attention John Maurer M.D. What is the duty of any government? Its first duty is the responsibility to protect. In June of 2024 parks staff recommended amending the herbicide IPM and allowing three chemicals to be sprayed, Trifluralin, Dichlobenil and Glyphosate to save staff time and thus money. All three are extremely dangerous chemicals. They've been banned in such places as the EU, and the UK. Dichlobenil and Glyphosate also been banned in China, Brazil, Thailand, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and a list of at least 40 countries across the world. Closer to home, they've been banned in Washington State, and the cities of Bend, Eugene, Talent and Phoenix. Further the 9th circuit Court is looking at banning Glyphosate completely with its decision coming sometime this year. You know who else used to ban these chemicals? The city of Ashland. Lately the justification for spraying shifted from the unpalatable subject of money to the more savory argument of worker safety. It's alleged that having workers on the medians with weedwhackers is dangerous. The safety argument falls apart when we look at how Ashland sprayed Glyphosate in September. According to the Parks FAQ posted in response to the public's concern: Outside of Parks lands, pesticides are only used on select medians by certified operators to reduce the amount of time workers spend working in high-risk areas. There was no "certified operator" present. The worker designated to spray was newly hired, with less than 3 months on the job, had no protective gear, and no idea what he was spraying. There were no traffic cones nor any kind of traffic barriers erected. Finally he sprayed right next to an open crosswalk where people, including a baby in a stroller, passed by. Councillors, Madame Mayor and City Manager, this is a bright line. Ashland is going to be facing more and more of these dilemmas as the deficit looms closer and as the national economy gets worse. This decision, however is an easy one. Restore the ban on synthetic herbicides and enforce the policies in we have in place. Remember your first duty is responsibility to protect. Gto'Uka, M , 61 S r H VL �Ci Mayor Graham, ladies and gentlemen of the council; Thank you for your time. My name is John Maurer. I've been actively licensed as a Physician and Surgeon in the State of Oregon since 1975 when I established Ashland Orthopedic Associates. Over those years I've been privileged to preside over both the ACH Medical Staff and the Jackson County Medical Society. Additionally, I've chaired both the Ashland School Board and the Board of Directors of the YMCA. With that experience I've come to understand what makes Ashland a unique community. I come here this evening to voice my concern over the fate of our community hospital. It is not my intent to vilify Asante nor my purpose to launch torpedos at a sinking ship. Without Asante's survival ACH is doomed. Rather the time has come for the citizens of Ashland be apprised as to what the future of health care will look like moving forward with the hope their united voices will have some impact on that vision. Since the City sold ACH to Asante in 2013 the recurring question of what is to become of ACH has gone unanswered. "There is no plan other than to keep it open as a hospital" is the retort one gets when probing the highest levels of the Asante organization. Yet actions speak louder than words. The closure of the ICU 18 months ago has required elective surgeries on high risk patients be diverted to the Mother Ship in Medford. Another hit on the surgical volume has been the non renewal of the contract last month with the penultimate remaining orthopedic surgeon leaving one orthopedist to do the work of the four in 2013. Of greater concern is the failure to renew the contract expiring this month with the long standing team of anesthesia providers raising the question of whether there will be a surgical service come September. The diversion of obstetrical patient to Medford has reduced the patient volume in the Birth Center to a mere trickle of what existed in 2013. These actions on the part of Asante extrapolate into the future of our hospital being reduced to little more than a referral dispensary to the Mother Ship. Simply keeping the hospital open is not a plan. Rather it is a mandate as was recorded in the 80 page Affiliation Agreement between the City and Asante executed on 31 July 2013. Asante is obligated to maintain the hospital as a General Hospital defined by OAR 333-500-0032 to include surgical and maternity services as well as an Emergency Room until the agreement sundowns in 2028. Failure to do so requires Asante to pay the City a $ 4 million default penalty. Hopefully, with this sizable stick at the ready the City can influence Asante to be more transparent with the future of Ashlands health care. Thanks for listening