08/11/2026
Today, August 10, 2026, UAB St. Vincent’s St. Clair announced it secured a $750,000 grant through Alabama’s Rural Hospital Investment Program (RHIP) that will support the purchase of new equipment for the facility. The maximum allowable award was made possible through tax-credit contributions from two local partners: Goodgame Company and Metro Bank.
Created by the Alabama Legislature, the RHIP initiative allows businesses and individuals to redirect their state tax dollars directly to local rural healthcare facilities. The program launched following a required 10% local match, funded equally through a partnership between the Pell City Council and the St. Clair County Commission.
During the presentation, Hospital Administrator Lisa Nichols said the funds will expand local care capabilities so some patients can avoid traveling to Birmingham for treatment. The facility has already acquired a new bronchoscope for its pulmonologist and will use additional funds to replace patient beds.
"Being able to focus our local tax dollars on meeting local needs is essential for our community's growth," said Don Smith, Executive Director of the St. Clair Economic Development Council, who thanked Sen. Lance Bell and Rep. Randy Wood for passing the state legislation.
Leaders from both donating organizations said they were proud to support the hospital. Jason Goodgame of Goodgame Company and Jason Dorough of Metro Bank emphasized they were grateful to reinvest in this important facility and the health of St. Clair County residents.
Pictured: Pell City Council Member James McGowan, Pell City Council Member Jud Alverson, UAB St. Vincent’s St. Clair Administrator Lisa Nichols, State Sen. Lance Bell, Metro Bank President / CEO Jason Dorough, City Manager Tim Kurzejeski, Goodgame Company President Jason Goodgame, St. Clair County Commission Chair Stan Batemon, Chief Nursing Officer Shiloh Swiney, State Rep. Randy Wood. Photo courtesy of UAB.
Bill Pruitt - Mayor of Pell City UAB Medicine Metro Bank, Alabama Company
