Ekalaka, MT

In 2021, construction of a new County healthcare facility left Carter County, MT commissioners with a large task of determining what to do with the former hospital; originally built in 1941 with additions made in the 1950’s and again in the late 1960’s. Asbestos containing 9x9 tiles and lead-base paint exists throughout the structures and possible petroleum contamination exists from a former underground fuel storage tank.  The County is willing to invest in rehabilitating this old hospital to benefit the community and needs a better understanding of what it will take to address these environmental challenges as well as what is financially reasonable.  KSU TAB assistance was requested to facilitate a community input session and conduct a feasibility study for the property.  On 22 May 2023, KSU TAB Partners Mary Hashem and Kate Lucas with Adaapta, led community members a SWOT analysis and group exercises to gather input and share ideas for possible reuse of the former hospital.  Input gathered during the May community meeting will be incorporated into the feasibility study, currently underway.