As Southern Inyo Attempts to Leave HCCA, Search Warrant Served

The Southern Inyo Healthcare District has asked a bankruptcy court to allow it to exit its contract with Healthcare Conglomerate Associates after alleged financial mismanagement and unauthorized use of the district’s bank accounts. Additionally, an attorney for the district claims the district was served with a search warrant Tuesday morning by the Tulare County District […]

Hensley Attorney Issues Press Release

A press release, dated October 10, was sent to the Voice by the Law Offices of Michael J. Lampe addressing the issue of Tulare Police Chief Wes Hensley’s being placed on administrative leave. Hensley was placed on leave from his job on September 27 by Tulare’s city manager, Joe Carlini. In the press release, Lampe […]

UPDATED: HCCA Counsel: Employees’ Pay Could Rely on Board Paying HCCA

This article has been updated under the heading “Potential New Management.” Healthcare Conglomerate Associates (HCCA) has confirmed that it may not be able to make payroll for its employees Thursday — and that the responsibility for those payments ultimately rests with the Tulare Local Healthcare District. Additionally, attorneys with the district have moved forward in […]

New Tulare Hospital Board Member Sworn In

Xavier Avila took the oath of office for his seat on the Tulare Local Healthcare District Board on Thursday evening. He will represent Zone 5, replacing Linda Wilbourn’s vacated position. Avila was appointed on October 4 by now-fellow board members Kevin Northcraft, Mike Jamaica and Senovia Gutierrez. Northcraft and Jamaica were in attendance at the […]

Counties Begin Fiscal Year With Increased Balanced Budgets

In September, the Tulare County Board of Supervisors approved a $1.2 billion fiscally sustainable spending plan. It reflects a 4.3% increase over last year’s adopted budget. In a press release, County Administrative Officer Michael Spata said, “In its broadest sense, this Recommended Budget of $1.2 billion is balanced, fiscally sustainable, and structurally sound. In doing […]