In the June 13 issue of Twin Cities Business, it stated that the Austin Mayo hospital has 69 beds and Albert Lea hospital has 129 beds. Not to worry, they plan to expand their hospital to accommodate patients from Albert Lea. Where are the cost savings? Perhaps pressure from Hormel and maybe a little money to sweeten the pot?

No mention is made of the fact that we have a beautiful new hospital versus Austin’s old hospital, which cobbles old buildings together like an old farmhouse. No mention is made of the $1.3 million or more that our citizens contributed to build our beautiful new hospital.

Former members of the hospital board of directors reminded me that Mayo promised us that our hospital would always be known as Naeve Hospital. We are just beginning a search of the public records to find out the other promises that Mayo has backed out of.

Lastly, we would never think of driving 48 miles round trip to Austin to buy a quart of ice cream, but Mayo is asking that we pay $5,000 for an ambulance and $25,000 for a helicopter ride to Austin. (Note: prices may vary.)

Tony Trow

Albert Lea