ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — The head of one local hospital is trying to change the way it does business, but Rockford’s mayor is pushing back.

CEO Javon Bea announced last year that MercyHealth Rockton will not support any in-patient services. Instead, those patients will go to Mercy’s Riverside facility. Rockton will be completely out-patient.

Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara requested a public hearing from the Illinois Health Facilities and Services Board. Board members granted the request.

“[I’m] incredibly frustrated that in the midst of a global pandemic, when I’ve never seen a hospital, locally say they’re running out of ICU beds, at a time when we need beds more than ever, that we have someone and a board approving the closure of the 70 bed unit,” McNamara said.

There will be a virtual meeting Wednesday, Jan. 26 at 1 p.m. Those that want to speak can sign up or send the board comments. Although it is not required to sign up in advance to speak, it is encouraged to e-mail communications@rockfordil.gov to register. Those who register will speak first. Speakers will be limited to two minutes. If those who like to submit written comments, send them to DPH.HFSRB.PublicHearings@Illinois.gov.