Dear Editor,

In his Opinion (May 5, 2011), Dale Potter raised questions about the donation of the old Hospital to Wallowa Resources.

The Health Care District explored alternatives for the old hospital while the new hospital was in construction. They found no viable options consistent with their public purpose – and no interested buyers. Its an old and complicated building. The heating, ventilation and safety systems are expensive to run – and renovate. Lacking options, the District asked us to take it over.

Weve invested $123,605 in renovation and 90 percent of this went to local businesses. Last year, we lost $728 on $113,000 in revenue. Energy accounted for 60% of our costs. Heating has risen substantially this year. To date, were spending $14,955 per month for oil and power with the majority paid to the WC Grain Growers. We also pay $15,000 per year in water and sewer fees to the City.

We have seven tenants (including Wallowa Resources) who pay combined monthly revenue of $17,850. We will struggle to break even. We will invest in a new HVAC to drive down operating costs.

The loss of the Wallowa Valley Care Center will create significant challenges. The Care Center is our most important tenant. By agreement, the Care Center has indefinite right to lease their space.

Due to the losses they were incurring, the WCHCD contemplated demolition of the building. By donating it, they transferred the asset and its liabilities to us. Were not certain we can make it work, but were pleased that many organizations and businesses are benefiting from our effort. The building demonstrates community support which helps us secure external revenue. Since 1997, weve brought in more than $12 million dollars to support resource management and job creation in Wallowa County.

Nils D. Christoffersen

Executive Director Wallowa Resources

Enterprise