The mission statement for Mineral Community Hospital reads: “Our mission is to improve the health and quality of life of our community. The facility in Superior is a critical access hospital and one of the largest employers in the county.

2020 marked their 100th year of being in service and 2022 is their 4th year at their present location of 1208 Sixth Avenue East.

The hospital is governed by a board of directors and by now residents should have received a ballot to vote for three of the positions.

All five candidates were asked the same question: What will you bring to the board of directors and staff of Mineral Community Hospital if elected?

Bessie Spangler, incumbent. As a native Mineral County resident, my family and I have always relied upon the hospital. I worked there straight out of college eventually becoming the business office supervisor and medical biller; giving me experience on how the hospital operates on the financial side. MCH is a huge asset to our community.

Diane Magone. Having an interest in quality health care and a strong local economy, I will work to keep our hospital, our largest employer, open and focused on community needs. I will promote policies such as training and incentives that encourage staff retention. I will seek to fill gaps in available services.

Gloris Castles. Mineral Community Hospital has been a large and important part of my and my family’s life. I’ve been both a patient and employee there. A CMA in the clinic. A CNA and a BSN, RN in the hospital. I have experience in nursing and management elsewhere. I’ll be able to understand and contribute.

Heather Pecora. I participate in our community as the manager of the medical Quick Response Unit. As an Advanced EMT, I have years of medical experience. I am the secretary of the Healthy Communities Coalition and a member of the Family Connections Collaborative. I am committed to helping our hospital fulfill its critical role.

Tamara Starkel. Tamara was recently appointed as the Mineral County Advisory Council Senior Representative for the Area VI Agency on Aging by the Mineral County Commissioners. Her name is on the ballot, but she feels her new position currently fills her plate and requests your vote go to another candidate.

Ballots are Tuesday, May 3 by 8 p.m., at the county Clerk and Recorder’s Office. Not postmarked, but in the office.