What can we reason but from what we know? -Alexander Pope
What can we reason but from what we know? -Alexander Pope
HAXTUN HEALTH held ribbon cutting ceremonies for the new Main Street Clinic on Thursday, Jan. 16. Key players in the project are pictured on the front steps (l-r), Lea White, Haxtun Health Chief Nursing Officer; Rod Salvador, Haxtun Health Board Member; Andria Cox, United States Department of Agriculture; Greg Etl, Department of Local Affairs; Tom Bennett, First Pioneer National Bank; Julia Biesemeier, Haxtun Health Interim Chief Executive Officer: Kent Bamford, President of Haxtun Health Board of Directors: Jake Nemmers, from Senators John Hickenlooper's office; Joleen Stroyek, Haxtun Health Chief Financial Officer; Mike Ensminger, Project Manager; Rebecca Ensminger, Haxtun Health Board Member; and Darrell Smith, Haxtun Health Board Member.
On a day filled with celebration and pride, Haxtun Health officially opened the doors to its new Main Street Clinic. Community members, stakeholders, employees and distinguished guests gathered to commemorate the culmination of years of planning, dedication and collaboration.
The vision for the clinic was born in 2020 during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing a critical need to not only address the immediate impacts of the pandemic but also prepare the community for a healthier future, Haxtun Health embarked on an ambitious journey to create a space that would reduce hospital foot traffic by approximately 10,000 visitors annually and serve as a hub for health and wellness.
In 2020, Haxtun Health turned to its community for input. The response was clear: residents wanted a space dedicated to health, wellness and rehabilitation that also honored the history of Main Street. The iconic Smith Hardware building became central to this vision. Although structural challenges prevented the original building from being repurposed, its legacy lives on through lovingly preserved elements, including tin ceiling tiles, original wood flooring, and the Smith Hardware sign, generously entrusted by the Smith family.
The new facility features a retail pharmacy, a grab-and-go healthy meals station, outpatient rehabilitation services - including physical, occupational and speech therapy - and a primary care clinic. Equipped with seven exam rooms, counseling space and a dedicated medical team, the clinic is poised to elevate care to the community.
Funding for the project began with COVID-19 relief dollars, which provided foundational support. Highline Electric Association played a pivotal role in helping secure additional funding through the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program through United States Department of Agriculture. This funding will return $300,000 to Phillips County's revolving loan fund, supporting future regional economic growth. The Department of Local Affairs also provided significant backing, aiding both Haxtun Health and the Town of Haxtun in transforming spaces to bring this project to life.
The project received additional support in 2023 through a $2 million Congressionally Directed Spending request championed by Colorado Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennett. Senator Bennett toured the project last fall, while Senator Hickenlooper maintained close involvement throughout its progress. A representative from Hickenlooper's office attended the ceremony. Also in attendance was Andria Cox, from the local USDA office, who offered guidance in the funding process.
Haxtun Health's leadership credited many for their roles in the project's success. Mark Waller and Joe McKlosi skillfully navigated federal funding, while Tom Bennett and First Pioneer National Bank ensured project momentum during grant fund delays. The Haxtun Hospital Foundation was also praised for its contributions to the overall operations of Haxtun Health during this project, including funding for a pharmacy delivery vehicle.
Mike Ensminger was recognized for his hands-on involvement as project manager, offering guidance and expertise to overcome challenges and bring the project to fruition.
"Mike, your dedication, expertise and support have been instrumental in bringing this project to life," said Julia Biesemeier, Interim Chief Executive Officer at Haxtun Health during the ceremony on Jan. 16.
The Main Street Clinic's opening not only marks a milestone for Haxtun Health but also represents a bridge between the town's cherished history and its future. As attendees explored the new facility, they were encouraged to appreciate the integration of history on display with within the facility that reflects the spirit of Haxtun, honoring the legacy of the original building while addressing the needs of modern healthcare.
With operations set to begin in the coming weeks, the clinic will soon be fully outfitted to support its mission of fostering health, wellness and connection in the community.
As the ribbon was cut, the community celebrated not just the completion of a major project but the beginning of a new chapter for Haxtun Health. The day was a testament to the resilience, determination and unity that define the town, paving the way for a brighter, healthier future.
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