epcounty.com - Commissioner Precinct 2

El Paso County Commissioner Pct. 2
Veronica Escobar

County fills final seats on Thomason hospital board
By Erica Molina Johnson / El Paso Times
Article Launched: 05/08/2007
After months of tense debate, Commissioners Court selected the final members of Thomason Hospital's Board of Managers on Monday in two unanimous votes.
Commissioner Luis Sariñana nominated both men to the seats, which will fill the last vacant spots on the seven-member board.
In the midst of pressure from people with differing interests in Thomason Hospital, Sariñana pushed for the reappointment of James Stephen DeGroat and the appointment of Dr. José Luna to an at-large position.
"It was a difficult decision," Sariñana said. "Dr. Luna was the best choice due to the services he has provided the community.
"(DeGroat) was a tough one. I met with Steve several times ... He brings continuity to the board and financial experience," he said.
This will be DeGroat's third term. He said he was ready to move forward.
"It's a critical time in terms of expansion of the physical facility," he said.
"Our mission is to give quality health care to anyone who presents themselves," DeGroat said. "It's lots of hours and lots of work,
and the enthusiasm comes from a great staff."
Luna was one of five nominees for the at-large position.
"I will serve with my heart the interests of El Paso," he told the court.
The board will meet today for the first time with its new membership.
"There have been so many comments made by (County) Judge (Anthony) Cobos and this court to hold up on important decisions until all the seats were filled," board chairman Ron Acton said.
He said he was happy about the appointments.
"I cannot thank Commissioner Sariñana enough for the courage it took to appoint Steve, and I am looking forward to working with Dr. Luna," he said.
Court members said they were relieved to have the appointments behind them. The issue has been the center of several disagreements since new court members took office.
"I feel like King Kong got off my back," Sariñana said.
Commissioner Veronica Escobar said she was very happy about the outcome, despite her own nominee not being appointed.
"I'm so relieved it's over. It's been the source of much contention and I feel the issue is behind us," she said. "I'm delighted Commissioners Court appointed Dr. Luna and I was thrilled Steve DeGroat was appointed."
Erica Molina Johnson may be reached at emolina@elpasotimes.com; 546-6132.