Fort Healthcare Announces Public Forum to Discuss Proposed ER Development in Jefferson

Fort Healthcare announced that a public forum will take place on Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at 6pm at Jefferson High School Auditorium located at 700 W Milwaukee St., Jefferson, WI.  The forum is to discuss the proposed Mercyhealth standalone emergency room in the city of Jefferson. The Jefferson Planning Commission is set to meet on Oct. 5, and the City Council is scheduled to meet on Oct. 6. 

Fort Healthcare officials will share facts about the proposed facility and answer residents’ questions. Before the project is approved, Fort Healthcare wants residents to understand the impacts a new standalone ER would have on the city and the cost of care in the region. The best way to understand those impacts is to conduct an independent economic impact study to ensure residents and the City Council are well informed before making a decision.   

“We believe Jefferson residents deserve a robust discussion about how the new proposed facility will impact healthcare costs and services in the area,” said Dr. Michael Anderson, president and CEO of Fort Healthcare. “That’s why we’re hosting a public forum for residents to learn more about the proposed standalone ER and how it would impact healthcare costs and services.” 

“Before a decision is made on the proposed facility, an independent economic study should take place to ensure that the Jefferson residents and city council members are well informed,” said Jim Nelson, chief financial officer and senior vice president at Fort Healthcare. “It’s imperative that the city council members consider all the facts before rushing to make a decision. We hope our forum provides residents with more information ahead of the planning commission meeting on Oct. 5 and the city council meeting on Oct. 6.” 

Fort HealthCare has served Jefferson County for more than 80 years, with clinics in the City of Jefferson for decades. Fort Healthcare provides $6.6 million a year in wages and benefits to Jefferson residents and more than $400,000 in property taxes to municipalities across the county.