Van Diest Medical Center Lowers Tax Levy Rate

Board of Trustees approves decrease from $2.10 to $1.90 per $1,000 valuation

Apr. 1, 2026 at 7:19am

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The Van Diest Medical Center Board of Trustees in Webster City, Iowa voted 6-1 to decrease the hospital's tax levy rate from $2.10 to $1.90 per $1,000 of valuation for the upcoming fiscal year starting July 1, 2026. The board also approved a $69,309.52 capital request for a new ultrasound machine.

Why it matters

The tax levy rate helps fund essential hospital services, equipment upgrades, and community EMS support. By lowering the rate, Van Diest Medical Center is aiming to provide tax relief for local residents while still maintaining quality care and infrastructure.

The details

After months of review and a public information session on March 24th, the Van Diest Medical Center Board of Trustees voted to decrease the hospital's tax levy rate from $2.10 to $1.90 per $1,000 of property valuation. The new rate will take effect on July 1, 2026. In addition, the board approved a $69,309.52 capital request to purchase a new ultrasound machine for the hospital's radiology department.

  • The board meeting took place on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.
  • The new $1.90 tax levy rate will go into effect on July 1, 2026.

The players

Van Diest Medical Center

A community hospital located in Webster City, Iowa that provides a range of medical services and is funded in part by local property taxes.

Lisa Ridge

The CEO of Van Diest Medical Center.

Ashley Allers

The Chief Financial Officer of Van Diest Medical Center.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to balance the needs of the hospital with the tax burden on our community. This decrease in the levy rate aims to provide some relief while still allowing us to maintain quality care and critical infrastructure.”

— Lisa Ridge, CEO, Van Diest Medical Center

What’s next

The new $1.90 tax levy rate will go into effect on July 1, 2026 for the start of the hospital's next fiscal year.

The takeaway

By proactively managing its tax levy, Van Diest Medical Center is demonstrating a commitment to fiscal responsibility and community affordability while still investing in essential healthcare services and equipment for Webster City residents.