Cong. Moran gives flag to St. Luke Hospital
Congressman Jerry Moran will present a flag to St. Luke Hospital this summer, it was reported at the board meeting of Marion County Hospital District No. 1.
The flag is one that has flown over the U.S. Capitol.
A new flagpole is planned as part of a landscaping project at the facility.
A flagpole is at the hospital, by the original front door, but it isn't used. Trees and construction hide it from view, and the pole is rusted and in poor condition.
An exact location for a new pole hasn't been established, but it will be prominently featured in front of the hospital and be lighted 24 hours a day.
The flag presentation will be made after the pole is installed and when Moran's schedule allows, said Doug Newman, administrator.
Janet Herzet, representing the landscaping committee, said plans call for removal of some trees and shrubs, while others will be trimmed, and new ones planted.
In other reports:
Bids are being taken for pest control services. Renovations to repair water damage uncovered evidence of termites.
Most of the repair work is finished. The board will take bids to replace part of the clinic's heating and air conditioning system, much of which is original and needs replacement. The work will include six furnaces, four compressors, and related ductwork.
Extensive renovations in the building leased by Prairie View are almost finished, Newman said. The portion formerly used by the hospital for storage has been converted to office space.
Relations with Banner Health System remain positive, though the corporation will end its lease of St. Luke in 2004. Newman said lines remain open with Via Christi, which operates several facilities in Wichita. Hospital officials said they want to continue to explore options so an agreement is in place before the Banner lease ends.
Several donations to St. Luke Foundation raised its holdings to $184,600.
