Hospital board considers term limits

Should there be a limit on the number of years a person can sit on a board of trustees? Those currently serving the Crook County Medical Services District took a step towards answering this question on Friday, when the suggestion was made to institute term limits.

“I honestly think there should be a two-term limit. That’s just my opinion,” commented Trish Habeck as she raised the topic during discussion of updating the board’s bylaws.

Chairman Mark Erickson agreed, stating that he likes the idea because “new blood refreshes all the time” and bringing in people who are actively involved in the community helps the board make progress.

However, Trustees Sandy Neiman and Connie Lindmier felt the idea was better in theory than it would be in practice because it might be difficult to find enough interested people to fill the required seats.

“What if you can’t get anybody else to run?” Neiman asked.

Erickson responded that, just like with any other board, an appointment would be made. Lindmier, however, pointed out that it has historically been difficult to find trustees for Hulett and Moorcroft, noting that her predecessor served for 25 years.

“It has to be someone who is interested and actually has the time and the effort to do it,” Neiman added.

Erickson asked board attorney Kara Ellsbury to do some background research on the idea and return with feedback as to whether and how it could be added to the bylaws.

“I’m very intrigued with the idea,” he said. “Let’s keep discussing.”