Walker County Sole Commissioner Bebe Heiskell said she remains committed to helping Hutcheson Medical Center cover its operating needs.
She said, "I am waiting to hear the results of the RFP (request for proposal) review committee just like everyone else. However, it is apparent that whatever solution is reached, Hutcheson will need further short term bridge financing to arrive at that solution.
"Such financing can only be accomplished by someone or something providing security back up.”
Over the past year, the only security available to Hutcheson acceptable to its lenders has been a pledge of county backing, she noted.
Her office said Commissioner Heiskell "continues to be committed to helping Hutcheson cover its operating needs over the next few weeks, just as she has provided support to the struggling hospital over the past three years.
"Further, the commissioner pledged to provide credit support for any proposals which Catoosa and Dade counties would also back. She hoped the two counties would likewise make such a pledge."