SACRAMENTO – Senator John Laird today issued the following statement regarding the announced departure of Watsonville Community Hospital CEO Steve Gray and the appointment of Tim Moran as interim CEO:

“Steve Gray stepped into an extraordinarily challenging leadership role at a critical time for Watsonville Community Hospital. Under his leadership, the hospital made meaningful progress toward long-term stability while continuing to provide essential care to the Pajaro Valley community. I appreciate Steve's partnership, his steady leadership, and his commitment to the community, and I wish him all the best in his next chapter.

I look forward to working with his successor, Tim Moran. Tim brings decades of health care leadership experience, including previous service at Watsonville Community Hospital, and I know his experience will serve the hospital well.

The work of strengthening Watsonville Community Hospital continues, but I remain confident in the hospital's future and committed to working with the Health Care District, hospital leadership, and our local partners to ensure this vital community resource serves the Pajaro Valley for years to come.”