TO:     ALL REGISTERED VOTERS

NOTICE OF ELECTION TO INCREASE TAXES

Election Date:   Tuesday, May 6, 2025                

Polling Place Election Hours:  7:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.

Polling Place Address: 150 N. Nevada St, Walsh, CO  81090

Ballots will be mailed only to Walsh Hospital District Registered Voters.

All other Non-District Colorado Registered Voters must request a Ballot. 

You may vote at the Polling Place on May 6, between the hours of 7 am to 7 pm.

Completed Ballots may be dropped in the Official Ballot Box located at 150 N. Nevada St., Walsh Colorado.  All Ballots must be received by May 6, 2025 by 7 pm.

Local Election Office Address and Telephone Number:

Rita Hetrick, Administrator and Designated Election Official

150 N. Nevada St.

P.O. Box 206

Walsh, CO 81090

Telephone: 719-324-5262 Ext. 131

Rita.hetrick@walshhealthcarecenter.com

Ballot Title and Text:   DISTRICT BALLOT ISSUE A:

SHALL WALSH HOSPITAL DISTRICTS PROPERTY TAXES BE INCREASED $694,225 ANNUALLY, COMMENCING IN 2025 AND COLLECTED IN 2026, OR BY SUCH AMOUNT AS MAY BE RAISED ANNUALLY THEREAFTER BY THE IMPOSITION OF AN ADDITIONAL MILL LEVY RATE OF UP TO 20 MILLS ON THE ASSESSED VALUATION OF REAL PROPERTY LOCATED WITHIN THE DISTRICT CONTINUING THEREAFTER; WITH THE NET PROCEEDS OF SUCH TAX TO BE COLLECTED, RETAINED AND SPENT FOR THE PURPOSES OF THE DISTRICT THROUGH ITS GENERAL FUND AND SHALL THE DISTRICT BE AUTHORIZED TO COLLECT, RETAIN AND EXPEND ALL REVENUE DERIVED FROM SUCH TAX AS A VOTER APPROVED REVENUE CHANGE AND AN EXCEPTION TO LIMITS WHICH WOULD OTHERWISE APPLY UNDER ARTICLE X, SECTION 20 OF THE COLORADO CONSTITUTION OR ANY OTHER LAW.

Total District Fiscal Year Spending:

2025 (estimated)                 $4,898,659                                                                                                                                                               2024 (actual)                         $4,783,043
2023 (actual)                         $5,197,136
2022 (actual)                         $4,769,541
2021 (actual)                         $4,498,059

Overall percentage change from 2021 to 2025:               9%
Overall dollar change from 2021 to 2025:                 $ 400,600

[For proposed tax increase insert the following financial information.]

Proposed District Tax Increase:

Estimated first full fiscal year maximum dollar amount of increase:   $    694,183
Estimated first full fiscal year spending without the increase:              $ 5,020,000

Summary of Written Comments For the Proposal:

The additional Mill Levy is important so we may continue providing a safe and supportive environment for our community.  A safe and supportive environment means access to medical care via the Medical Clinic, Ambulance Service and a place to stay for rehabilitative services or even around the clock care.

The Walsh Hospital District needs the Mill Levy to pass on May 6, 2025. There are more than 60 jobs held in the Walsh Hospital District throughout its’ entities which include: Walsh Ambulance Service, Walsh Healthcare Center, Maplewood Homes, and Walsh Medical Clinic.  Many may not see how important each of the entities are to the community until you no longer have the opportunity to use them when you need them. The economic impact could have a domino effect on other business losses within the community if not passed.

Supporting Walsh Hospital District is a vital community Investment as the medical clinic, ambulance service, nursing home and assisted living is the backbone of our local community.  They are essential not only for maintaining the health and well-being of residents but also for supporting the local economy.  Walsh Medical Clinic provides critical medical services to our community including emergency care, wellness, and medication management. Walsh Ambulance Service is the lifeline in emergencies, ensuring rapid response and transportation to medical facilities. In our remote area, Walsh Ambulance Service is critical. Our nursing home and assisted living facility offers essential care for the elderly and those with long-term health needs. They ensure that residents receive the necessary medical attention and support in a familiar environment. Supporting Walsh Hospital District is not only a matter of health and safety; it also has significant economic and social benefits. In conclusion, investing in Walsh Hospital District is vital for the health, well-being, and economic stability of our community. By ensuring these essential services are well-supported, we can enhance the quality of life for our rural residents and foster a thriving community.

Summary of Written Comments Against the Proposal:

“No comments were filed by the constitutional deadline.”