The surtax was initially imposed on January 1, 2021, to ensure robust budgeting for the upcoming year. With the 2026 deadline for the surtax swiftly approaching, hospital staff and administration are keen to guarantee the availability of essential funds to support their annual budgeting needs.
The surtax extension was approved by Holmes County Commissioners on August 12, during a special meeting. During the November election voters will have the choice to pass or deny the continuation of the 0.5₵ surtax.
The surtax, a critical financial lifeline for the hospital, was placed on the ballot in 2020 and received resounding approval from voters, passing with a vote of 4,560 to 4,117. The surtax has played a role in the growth of Doctors Memorial Hospital.