Special Called Williamson County Board of Commissioners Meeting - July 6, 2026

This special called meeting of the Williamson County Board of Commissioners on July 6, 2026, focused primarily on a presentation by the Williamson Health Board of Trustees regarding the strategic planning process and their unanimous recommendation to sell Williamson Health to Ascension St. Thomas. The board detailed a multi-year, confidential request for proposal (RFP) process involving several potential buyers, including Ascension, HCA, and Optum, with Ascension's proposal deemed the most favorable based on financial terms, capital commitments, and cultural fit. The proposed transaction is valued at approximately $900 million, including upfront proceeds and capital investments over ten years. The board emphasized protections for employees, medical staff, and community services, and outlined next steps involving the drafting of a non-binding letter of intent and eventual county commission approval per the private hospital act. Commissioners and public speakers raised questions about transparency, employee protections, use of sale proceeds, and the timeline for decision-making. Legal counsel and advisors highlighted the new state law granting the county commission authority and flexibility over the disposition of sale proceeds. No formal vote was taken at this meeting; it served as an informational session with a commitment to ongoing public engagement and detailed review before any final decisions.