As a long-time resident of Larned, Leonard Herrman had been watching the growth of Pawnee Valley Community Hospital from the sidelines.

But now, he is serving in a position that allows him to have a hand in the day-to-day operation of the hospital and its clinic.

Herrman is the new Human Resources (HR) director at the hospital, 923 Carroll, and Pawnee Valley Medical Associates, 713 W. 11^th.

“I have seen the evolution of these facilities from conception through construction,” Herrman said. “I also have witnessed the tremendous community support along the way.

“Now that I am here, the energy displayed by hospital and clinic employees really stands out; this is difficult to find in other organizations. I see this HR opportunity as a way to contribute to an exciting, progressive organization.”

Herrman’s responsibilities include overseeing HR programs such as: compensation, benefits and leave; disciplinary matters; disputes and investigations; performance and talent management; productivity, recognition and morale; occupational health and safety; and training and development.

As Herrman takes on these duties, his “first impressions have been wonderful. I have a unique opportunity to work with the team here and our business partners at HaysMed. I am learning so much from my associates in Larned and Hays.”

The HR director also noted he is “impressed with the many services provided right here at home. It is incredible to have a hospital with critical-care access and a wide variety of services in our own backyard.”

Herrman earned a bachelor’s degree in management from Baker University and a master’s in public administration from Wichita State University.

His professional background includes serving as HR director at Larned State Hospital where he: was instrumental in developing the Licensed Mental Health Technician program; started a work-study program with Fort Hays State University; and collaborated with local government officials to create a digital recruiting campaign that demonstrated a 30 percent improvement over earlier recruiting efforts.

In addition, past employment includes patrol officer at the Larned Police Department; Sergeant First Class with the Kansas Army National Guard in Manhattan; and fire chief at the Larned Volunteer Fire Department.

“I want to bring the knowledge and experience I have gained over the years to this position,” he commented. “Since we want to find the best way forward from an HR perspective, I will work closely with my colleagues to bring strategies that will lead us into the future.”

Herrman grew up in Topeka and moved to Larned in 1996.

The extensive new lighting project, which is nearing completion, will result in many benefits at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH) and Pawnee Valley Medical Associates, said Rex Meek, facilities maintenance director.

“All inside and outside lighting is being changed to LED,” Meek said. “This lighting is very efficient and will save thousands of dollars per year in electricity costs. It is the lighting of the future.”

The project began last September and as of few weeks ago, it was about 95 percent complete. It has entailed the installation of some new electrical wiring and removal of hundreds of fluorescent fixtures.

“This state-of-the-art LED lighting needs very little maintenance,” Meek said. “We will no longer be replacing unreliable fluorescent bulbs and ballasts. This will lower our maintenance costs tremendously.”

Haynes Electric, a local contractor, “provided its expertise and handled all the installation for the project,” Meek said. “Our maintenance team offered advice on the types of fixtures and dimmers to use in all areas. It has been great working with Haynes.”

Because of all the savings, Meek noted, “there will be a very short-term payback time for the cost of the new lighting. This project is great for our hospital and clinic, which in turn, means it is great for our patients and families. You can’t beat saving money, while enjoying more reliability.”

Melanie Urban, PVCH administrator, anticipates the savings will come to approximately $23,000 a year.

“The cost and energy savings will help our hospital and clinic become more efficient for our patients, families and staff,” Urban said. “We appreciate Rex Meek and his colleagues who have been working closely with Haynes Electric to prevent any disruptions in our services. The teamwork has been tremendous.”