The public can learn about what’s new at Whidbey General Hospital and ask questions of officials at a series of townhall meetings scheduled for south, central and north areas of the island.

“We want to be open to dialogue, questions, comments and ideas,” said hospital Chief Executive Officer Geri Forbes.

The first meeting is scheduled for 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 28, at the Langley United Methodist Church, 301 Anthes Ave.

The town halls will include updates on the inpatient wing building project, introductions to new medical providers and information on healthcare services. Ample time will be set aside so those who attend can ask questions and voice any opinions, suggestions, kudos or concerns.

The hospital in a $50-million expansion project that includes a new patient wing.

During the last election, hospital officials were criticized for not being transparent enough with the public, and for the board’s 7 a.m. Monday meeting time.

Members of the board have talked about how they can interact more with the public.

Forbes plans to attend all three talks as well as members of the medical staff. At each one, board members who represent the area plan to be present.

The board didn’t want to have more than two board members present at each meeting so it doesn’t have to legally be advertised as a public meeting, said board president Anne Tarrant.

“If there is an open public meeting, we thought it would make it too formal or stiff,” she said.

The other two talks are planned for 5 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 24, at the Oak Harbor Yacht Club, 1301 S.E. Catalina Drive, Oak Harbor, and 5 p.m. Tuesday, March 22, at Whidbey General Hospital, Conference Room A & B.

Refreshments will be served.