On Thursday, outside of Jackson Hospital & Clinic, employees, community members, and elected officials rallied in a desperate bid to keep the struggling hospital afloat. Signs reading “Save our jobs!”, “We need Jackson!”, and “Help us, help you!” reflected the community’s concern over the 80-year-old institution’s uncertain future.

Jackson Hospital has been grappling with severe financial distress for months. According to WAKA 8 News, the crisis escalated in September 2024 when the hospital missed a $60 million interest payment, leading to a credit downgrade from CC to D. By November, the turmoil forced CEO Joe Riley and COO Michael James to step down, with Ronald Dreskin stepping in as interim CEO.

Efforts to stabilize the hospital’s finances have been led by Chief Restructuring Officer Allen Wyland, who initially sought assistance from both Montgomery County and the City of Montgomery. However, the county ultimately declined to provide financial support, leaving the city as the hospital’s only remaining option for critical backing.

The Montgomery City Council is set to vote tonight on whether to extend financial assistance to the hospital. While Council Member Marche Johnson acknowledged the hospital’s vital role in the community, she cautioned that city support alone would not be a long-term solution.

“A temporary fix won’t be enough—we need broader financial solutions to secure Jackson Hospital’s future,” Johnson stated.

As the city prepares to make a pivotal decision, hospital employees and community members remain hopeful that a resolution can be found to protect both their jobs and the essential healthcare services Jackson Hospital provides.

Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].