The Grossmont Healthcare District is set to evaluate a new chief executive officer during its meeting on March 7, 2023. The board is considering James Sly, the current CEO of the East County Economic Development Corporation (EDC), as a candidate for the leadership position. This potential hiring reflects the district’s focus on local expertise and strengthening ties within the East County community.
James Sly has a notable background in economic development, having served as the EDC’s vice president from 2012 until he was appointed president and CEO in 2020. His experience may align well with the Grossmont Healthcare District’s ongoing initiatives, particularly its workforce pipeline project aimed at training individuals for essential healthcare roles such as patient care aides, medical assistants, and licensed vocational or registered nurses.
The board’s search for a new CEO follows the decision not to renew the contract of former chief executive Christian Wallis, which occurred in March 2023. The board did not provide a public reason for Wallis’s dismissal, leading to speculation about the direction the organization intends to pursue.
Collaboration and Funding Priorities
Located in La Mesa, the Grossmont Healthcare District has been actively collaborating with the East County EDC in recent years. This partnership has focused on developing a workforce pipeline to meet the growing demand for healthcare professionals in the region. Unlike other public health care districts, such as Palomar Health in Escondido and Tri-City Medical Center in Oceanside, Grossmont operates in partnership with the private nonprofit organization Sharp HealthCare, which manages Sharp Grossmont Hospital.
At the upcoming meeting, the district board is expected to adopt its 2025-26 grant award list. This year, the board has recommended funding for 45 local organizations, as well as considering sponsorship for ten community events. The funding allocations stem from property tax levies and are aimed at enhancing various health-related programs within the district.
Should James Sly be appointed as the CEO, his contract would stipulate an annual salary of $280,000, along with an annual professional development stipend of $10,000. This compensation package reflects the importance of leadership in driving the district’s mission to improve healthcare access and quality in the community.
As the Grossmont Healthcare District moves forward with its decision-making process, the outcome may significantly influence the organization’s future direction and its role in addressing healthcare needs in the region.
