Cliff Hewett then announced the candidates selected by the nominating committee in their meeting April 5. Although not required, tradition has led the district to appoint board members from the four corners of the district, and one from the City of Girard. Nominees this year were incumbent Vernon Egbert, Barbara Lohmeyer, Melvin Geier and Steve Barnett. Lehman said Barnett had withdrawn his name from the running Friday morning due to the demands of a new job, but asked to be considered in the future. Then Lehman asked for nominations from the floor.
Statute requires a one-minute wait before closing nominations, even if none are forthcoming.
Lehman asked for nominations three times, waited 50 seconds and gave a 10-second warning, asked for nominations a fourth time, and closed the nomination period with no additional names. Each member of the district could vote for no more than two names on the ballot. Egbert's seat was vacant, as was Lehman's. Lehman announced that some of the board's goals are nearing fruition. They include a foundation that will be able to more efficiently handle bequests from friends of the hospital.