Photo (l to r): Kim Bates, Bill Monroe
JEFFERSON, Iowa – Greene County Medical Center will undergo a leadership transition at the end of 2025 as longtime trustee, Kim Bates retires and local pharmacist, Bill Monroe, joins the Board of Trustees. The move underscores the medical center’s focus on strong governance and high-quality rural healthcare.
Bates, who joined the board after years of civic involvement with organizations such as the Lions Club, Jaycees, Greene County Conservation Soil and Water District and more, said his 16 years of service at Greene County Medical Center has been defined by teamwork and a commitment to patient-centered care. “The highlights are working with senior leadership and other board members on patient care and ensuring they have the services they need,” Bates said. “It has been a privilege to also be involved in the cultural advancements that CEO, Chad Butterfield, has initiated. One of the true rewards was watching the senior team transform the financial health of the organization.”
During his tenure, Bates and his fellow trustees navigated financial challenges, major facility updates and difficult service decisions. “We worked through these issues as a cohesive team, ensuring everything was done appropriately so the medical center could remain viable and strong for future generations.” He also pointed to visionary planning, noting that, “the new MRI unit would probably not be happening if the board hadn’t been forward-thinking enough to have a room designed for this future project.”
He added that he wants to thank his fellow board members, the entire staff and the community for allowing him to serve and he wishes Greene County Medical Center continued success. Bates and his wife, Sherry, live on a farm south of Scranton. They have two adult children and five grandchildren and recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.
Joining the board to complete Bates’ term is Bill Monroe, a pharmacist with more than 60 years of healthcare experience. Monroe, who will also serve on the Greene County Medical Center Foundation Board, said his focus will mirror Bates’ commitment to collaboration. “Listening to the needs of staff and providers so they can provide the best healthcare is critical,” he said. “I like to think I can think outside the box, brainstorming and problem-solving to help the board advance our mission.”
With a long career in local pharmacy development and management, Monroe says he understands the unique challenges of rural healthcare. “We need to continue to ensure we have the technology and an environment that are top of the line.”
Monroe and his wife, Martha, have lived in Jefferson for 38 years and have two daughters and four grandchildren. His community service includes board roles with the First Presbyterian Church, Greene County Community Foundation, Bell Tower Foundation, the Kiwanis and The Children’s Center.