EPHRATA - Columbia Basin Hospital's board of directors is putting the finishing touches on a job description for a new chief executive officer.

It's the first step toward starting a search.

The new CEO will replace Robert Reeder, who resigned at the request of the board in December. Reeder had been CEO since 2009.

Administrative assistant Rosalinda Kibbee was named acting administrator at the time of Reeder's resignation. Kibbee is still working in the position, said public relations director Susan Scheib.

When Reeder's resignation was announced, board chair Donna Knauss said it could take six months to a year to find a replacement.

Board members have indicated the new job description could come as early as next week, Scheib said. That would be the first step to finding a replacement, Scheib said.

The hospital is involved in a $13 million expansion and remodel, adding a new acute care wing and remodeling the old patient rooms into offices. The new space will have room for 20 to 22 patients, Scheib said.

The hospital will remodel and continue to operate its nursing home, although it will be reduced from 29 to eight residents, Scheib said. Hospital officials plan to continue to operate the clinic and assisted living facility, Knauss said. Officials are looking for other services to attract patients and increase revenue, she said.