The Hennepin County Board on Dec. 2 approved Hennepin Healthcare Systems’ 2026 financial plan and advanced a separate, county‑directed governance review of the safety‑net system.

Dr. Thomas Clement, CEO of Hennepin Healthcare Systems, described the financial plan as a 0‑margin, break‑even budget aimed at stabilizing the safety‑net hospital after years of operating losses. Clement said the plan assumes revenue growth and allocates about $25 million for capital equipment while acknowledging ‘‘very significant challenges’’ and limited days of cash on hand.

Commissioners praised the plan’s realism but repeatedly warned it is fragile. Several members urged the state legislature to consider a statewide solution to uncompensated care and Medicaid shortfalls that the hospital faces. ‘‘We need the legislature to look at a statewide solution,’’ Commissioner Lundy said, noting that counties cannot shoulder the burden alone.

Separately, the board directed the county administrator to undertake a comprehensive study of Hennepin Healthcare governance, including past structures, strengths and weaknesses, and options for improved transparency, community engagement and leadership models. Commissioner Fernando said the review should inform CEO searches and broader governance decisions; commissioners debated scope and timeline and agreed to progress the item so staff can begin work and return with recommendations.

The financial plan and governance study both passed through board action: the financial plan with approval and the governance study progressed for further work and reporting.