AFSCME Triumph: Hennepin Healthcare Board Dissolved for Accountability

In a landmark decision, the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners has taken decisive action to enhance accountability at Minnesota's largest public hospital. The board's 6-1 vote resulted in the dissolution of the Health and Human Services (HHS) Board, a move celebrated by members of the AFSCME Council 5.

The decision signifies a major shift in governance for Hennepin Healthcare, with the county commissioners assuming control over the Hennepin County Medical Center. This change comes after persistent advocacy efforts by AFSCME Locals 977 and 2474, along with the Minnesota Nurses Association and the Hennepin County Association of Paramedics and EMTs. Their collective aim was to establish a governance structure that prioritizes transparency and accountability to better serve patients and healthcare workers.

The HHS board faced criticism for its lack of involvement with frontline workers and its inability to manage the hospital's $35 million deficit effectively. The dissolution of the board is seen as a step towards rebuilding trust and ensuring that decision-making processes involve both workers and the community.

Sara Franck, president of AFSCME Local 2474, emphasized the importance of this development, stating, "For years, our members have been calling for accountability and transparency at Hennepin Healthcare. Dissolving the HHS board is a major step toward ensuring decisions are made with the voices of front-line workers and patients at the center." Franck highlighted the need to restore trust and ensure the hospital serves the community effectively.

Kitsune Tara, president of AFSCME Local 977, remarked on the power of collective action, noting that the board's dissolution demonstrates the impact of solidarity among workers. "This victory shows the power of solidarity. When nurses, clerical workers, paramedics, EMTs, and all AFSCME members and labor union allies joined together, we made it clear that our voices matter and we are proving our solidarity," Tara said.

Bart Andersen, Executive Director of Council 5, reinforced the workers' long-standing demands for respect, patient care, equity, and transparency during his testimony before the county commissioners. He commented, "This victory is proof of what happens when working people join together and refuse to be ignored."

AFSCME members are committed to continuing their efforts to create a more responsive and transparent healthcare system at Hennepin Healthcare, focused on delivering equity and quality care for all patients.