Save Susan B Allen Memorial Hospital

     Almost 90 years ago, the citizens of El Dorado and Frank S. Allen worked together to build the hospital named in honor of his mother, Susan B. Allen. The hospital is a non-profit organization, governed by local citizens who are the board of trustees.
     In March 2016 the hospital board hired Jim Kirkbride as the CEO, his first ever CEO position. Jim was able to make his style of leadership known within a few months through the firing of a long term administration employee, creating a culture of conformity.
     2017 was possibly the worst financial year in the history of the hospital losing over $10 million; 2018 is not that far behind. The exact amount is unknown because the 990 filing for 2017 was granted an extension until November 15 so it is not available publicly at this time. Not only is the hospital experiencing a hemorrhaging of funds, but long-term employees are either leaving or being fired. On November 20, 2018, two long term employees with over 50 years of combined service to the hospital were fired. I was one of them, had 20 years with the hospital.
     I have been outspoken against Jim's leadership, not only has his decisions caused major financial losses, but have caused entire departments to be outsourced.
     We, the undersigned, call on the Board of Trustees of Susan B Allen Memorial Hospital, to replace the current CEO, Jim Kirkbride due to his mis-management of the hospital that Is causing extreme financial instability demonstrated by the loss of multi-millions.