Here are six things to know about the decision.
1. The decision comes as Massena Memorial seeks the flexibility to affiliate.
2. The city’s approval does not commit the hospital to getting rid of its municipal status. However, the resolution approved Wednesday does contain stipulations, one of which requires the hospital to maintain at least 345 positions for three years and increase employment levels, according to the report.
3. The city’s approval came despite opposition. Prior to the decision, a rally of union members took place, where members carried signs with messages like “Let town residents vote. It’s our hospital,” and chanted “No more lies. Don’t privatize,” according to the report. Unions represented during the rally and later at the city town council meeting were the New York State Nurses Association, New York State United Teachers and Massena Permanent Firefighters Local 2220.
4. Prior to the decision, New York State Assemblywoman Addie Russell (D-Theresa) said she would be willing to sponsor legislation that would allow the hospital to become a public benefit corporation, according to the report. Ms. Russell also expressed concern in regard to employees’ pension plans.
5. According to the report, Richard Gramer, MD, an anesthesiologist who has been working an independent contractor at the hospital since Memorial Day, said the hospital could not survive unless it made the move to become a nonprofit.
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