The proposed online auction to sell the abandoned ‘Old Hospital’ in Mount Vernon, TX is on hold. Franklin County Judge Scott Lee believes a new solution may be possible.
“It would be great if a private company would come in and get that building back on the tax base,” said Judge Scott, “The need for a full service hospital is just not here. What we really need is an urgent care facility.” In the past, CHRISTUS considered providing such care in Mount Vernon.
Emergency service is currently provided by Hopkins County EMS. Franklin County and Judge Lee feel the arrangement is mutually beneficial. “We contracted with another county before Hopkins County, but Hopkins County is a better fit,” stated Judge Lee.
Recent media exposure about the building, provided by CBS 60 minutes arrival on Thursday March 5th, 2020, has sparked new interest in the site. Mount Vernon ISD was approached in the past about taking over the property. At that time a firm ‘no’ was given. Judge Lee feels the ISD may now be interested. No details on that proposed deal are available.
“We are a small community, and the best case would be getting this property back on the tax rolls, but Franklin County is ready to work with anyone to get his taken care of,” Judge Lee stated.
Before the building is torn down, several hundred thousand dollars of asbestos cleanup will need to be preformed.
