Agreement Marks a Milestone in Collaboration and Community Wellness Across Madison County

Big Sky & Ennis, MT — BSRAD, MVHD, and MVMC are pleased to announce that they have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that outlines a path forward to address the future of the hospital taxing districts in Big Sky and the Madison Valley. As a result of this agreement, BSRAD, MVHD, and MVMC are united in their support for the amended version of Senate Bill 260 (SB 260), currently under consideration in the Montana Legislature. 

 

This agreement marks a significant milestone in fostering a more collaborative relationship between Big Sky and Ennis and reflects a shared commitment to addressing the evolving health and wellness needs of both communities. 

“This is a really complex issue, which is why the outcome is so significant. This MOU shows what’s possible when two communities come together with respect and a shared purpose,” said Kevin Germain, Chair of the Big Sky Resort Area District. “I’m grateful to MVMC’s CEO Allen Rohrback, Board Chair Mary Oliver, and to the MVHD team for their willingness to engage in thoughtful dialogue. While our communities are distinct, our values around fairness, access, and community wellness are deeply aligned. This agreement allows us to move forward—together.” 

SB 260, if it passes with amendments agreed to by all parties, will establish a fair and transparent process for communities to request changes to hospital district boundaries in a manner that requires sharing the fiscal impact over a number of years. The bill provides for a structured process for realigning district boundaries while ensuring financial stability and continuity of services for existing districts such as MVHD. 

“As an independent, community-owned hospital, our first responsibility is the long-term health and wellness of the people we serve,” said Allen Rohrback, CEO of Madison Valley Medical Center.

“This agreement ensures we have the stability and clarity to move forward with confidence, preserving critical services, reducing unnecessary conflict, and staying focused on our mission. I want to thank Kevin Germain and the BSRAD team for their partnership in helping us find a solution that benefits the entire district.” 

The organizations agree that strong, sustainable rural healthcare and effective local governance are shared goals. The MOU demonstrates that with trust and dialogue, even complex issues can be resolved in a way that benefits the broader community. 

The bill is to proceed to the House floor on Tuesday April, 22nd for the second reading. As SB 260 advances through the legislative process, BSRAD, MVHD, and MVMC remain committed to collaborative engagement and a renewed spirit of partnership. Together, they are laying the foundation for a healthier, more connected Madison County.