On Tuesday, June 9, Hempstead County voters made a powerful statement about the future of healthcare in our community. With 82% of voters in favor of a 3/4 cent sales tax, our citizens chose to invest in their local hospital to preserve access to emergency services and help ensure that healthcare remains available close to home.

Southwest Arkansas Regional Medical Center wants to say Thank You to every voter who took the time to learn about the issue, engage in respectful conversations, and participate in the election process.

Reaching this vote would not have been possible without the vision, determination, and unwavering commitment of the community leaders who have fought tirelessly for this hospital since May 2024, when Steward Health Care filed for bankruptcy. Their dedication to preserving local healthcare access has been truly remarkable.

We are also deeply grateful for the steadfast support and partnership of Hempstead County, the City of Hope, and Hope Water & Light. Their commitment to the health and well-being of the communities they serve has been instrumental throughout this process. Together, these organizations and leaders have demonstrated what can be accomplished when a community unites around a common purpose—ensuring quality healthcare remains available for the citizens of Hope, Hempstead County, and the surrounding region.

While there is still important work ahead, we are dedicated to earning and maintaining the trust our community has placed in us by working tirelessly to provide quality healthcare and ensure a strong future for our hospital to serve the families, businesses, and future generations who call Hempstead County home. This vote demonstrates that our community believes access to local healthcare is worth protecting and preserving.

On behalf of Southwest Arkansas Regional Medical Center, thank you for believing in the importance of local healthcare and for investing in the future of your hospital. Together, we look forward with optimism, determination, and a shared commitment to sustaining a healthy future for Hempstead County.