After an ongoing negotiation process now well into the second year between Clear Springs Cancer Center and the UMH board, a contractual agreement is close to becoming a reality according to Radiation Oncologist, Dr. Charles A. Brooks said in a telephone interview with the Uvalde Hesperian on Monday, April 11th.

  According to Brooks, Dr. David Jones, the owner of Clear Springs and UMH are in the final stages of the negotiation process with the goal for UMH to assume ownership and operations. “When all is said and done, he feels this commitment by UMH to provide continuance of care for cancer patients in the surrounding area is a positive outcome.” Brooks said. 

 Dr. Brooks released a statement summarizing significant points in the transition.

   “There will be continuity of cancer care for our community.   I  am planning on remaining in Uvalde and providing ongoing care for both new and existing cancer patients.

  Clear Springs will remain open under the “Clear Springs” moniker, same phone number and same fax.  Anticipated date of transfer to Hospital ownership and operations is May 1, 2022.

  Existing Clear Springs staff will have the opportunity to remain at the facility as employees of UMH.  The relationship with the Hospital will allow Clear Springs to purchase new state-of-the art software and equipment.

  There will be continuation of the nine-county catchment area that was part of the original Marmion Regional Cancer Center directive, formulated more than ten years ago.  “Rides to Radiation” will continue to provide services for those patients that request transportation “

  A burn ban is now in effect for Uvalde County as of approximately 10:30 am today. The decision was made by the Uvalde County Commissioners at their regularly scheduled meeting today. 

   Other business included the approval to replace the current lighting fixtures over the indoor arena at the Uvalde County Fairplex.

   Fairplex Director Wendy Speer joined the meeting via video. 

  In her request to the court, she stated the current lights would flicker and take 15-20 minutes to turn on. According to Uvalde County Judge Bill Mitchell, the Commissioners Court received one bid from Angel Light and Signs for the job of replacing the current lighting fixtures with LED lighting. 

  The job would include installation and hardware for the job for approximately $44,000 dollars. County Judge Bill Michell asked Speer if the current lighting were to go out during an event, could it cause a safety concern for event participants? 

“Exactly.” Spear answered.

  The motion to approve the bid was approved by the commissioners with the exception of the 50% deposit requested by Angel Light and Signs.

  Following other agenda items, the Uvalde County Commissioners adjourned and reconvened again at the Uvalde Memorial Hospital to go on a guided tour of the new hospital facility which was led by Hospital CEO Tom Nordwick.