Healthcare union endorses St. Rose proposal

A union representing 150,000 healthcare workers on Monday endorsed a proposed joint-powers authority to preserve St. Rose Hospital. St. Rose is losing about $1 million a month and seeking ways to stay open. SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West threw its support behind the plan, saying St. Rose needs to remain a community hospital. The Alameda County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday will consider approving a $2 million infusion into St. Rose, and authorizing county officials to negotiate an agreement with Washington Hospital in Fremont that would allow the Hayward hospital to remain open.