William A. Simpson

Occupation: Retired. I moved to Aberdeen from Tacoma in 1980 and fell in love with the area. My wife and I have a blended family of 9 children and 15 grandchildren. I spent 6 years in the Army as a Clinical Psychologist Specialist. I worked for J.C.Penney in South Shore Mall for 30 years.

Relevant experience: I have 26 years in public service, 18 as a council member in Aberdeen and eight as mayor of Aberdeen. I have served on the Aberdeen Museum board, the Senior Center board, the Transit Board and others over the years. I supported transformation to a public hospital by making public service announcements.

1. Moving forward after layoffs is difficult for an organization. What should the board do, specifically, to create a workplace culture that fosters teamwork?

As far as the layoffs, past and future, the board needs to be more open. The most important thing at this time is to be open about why the changes where done. Communication is the key. We need to be positive in our relationship with all concerned. One thing that I notice is the attitude of staff, and it is hard to come to work with a smile on your face knowing that today could be your last day of employment there. I have been a “frequent flyer” at our hospital and have built a good relationship with the nurses, techs and other staff. I have listened to their concerns and needs. I plan to make that my position on the board, to listen and be transparent.

2. What are your thoughts about expanding Hospital District services in the Ocean Shores area?

We badly need a clinic in Ocean Shores with the large senior population residing there. It could be open for short hours, possibly with a retired doctor, a physician’s assistant and an R.N. or L.P.N. to cover hours. As we age our medical needs become greater and 26 miles can be a long road to travel.

3. What qualifies you to serve on the Hospital Board, and what district-related issues are important to you?

Out of my 59 years of employment, 50 have been in management. I have been involved with labor negotiations, and not all have been pleasant. It helps to be a good listener, and not always demand that things are your way. I have worked with Human Resources for hiring and layoffs, another give and take. I have worked in formulating budgets. The year that Weyerhaeuser closed, we lost 225 family wage jobs and that was a real hit to the city budget. We got through by working as a team.

Some of my concerns are lack of private practice doctors and citizens staying in the area for medical care. We need more transparency from the board, possibly by integrating more radio and newspaper coverage.