Special Called Williamson County Board of Commissioners Meeting - September 9, 2026

The Williamson County Board of Commissioners held a special called meeting on September 9, 2026, primarily to discuss the proposed sale of Williamson Health System to Ascension St. Thomas. The meeting featured extensive citizen communication with 18 speakers expressing both support and concerns about the sale, including issues related to financial implications, hospital culture, patient safety, and recent regulatory challenges faced by Ascension. Commissioners debated a motion to defer the vote on the non-binding letter of intent (LOI) to allow more time for investigation and community input. After deliberation, the motion to defer was narrowly defeated, and the board voted 19-5 to approve moving forward with the LOI, enabling due diligence and further negotiations. Additionally, the board unanimously approved a resolution related to a state law exception allowing the county to receive proceeds from the hospital sale, contingent on the sale price exceeding $500 million. The meeting underscored the board's fiduciary responsibility and the community's interest in ensuring a sustainable and high-quality healthcare future for Williamson County.