The failure of a plumbing connection at the Nehalem Bay Health Center & Pharmacy (NBHCP) on May 12, 2026 resulted in considerable damage to flooring, dry wall and some equipment, but as of the last week of July all repair and restoration work has been completed.
The Nehalem Bay Health District, owner of the facility, expresses its appreciation to the community for its patience and understanding during as restoration, and extends thanks to the management and staff of the NBHCP, as well as Bremik Construction and its subcontractors for the tremendous effort and teamwork required to return the facility to “as new” condition.
All flooring material other than tile on the first floor of the facility had to be replaced, and the same carpet and vinyl flooring that was originally installed was utilized. Dry wall that suffered water damage was removed, replaced and repainted. Two rooms, an exam room and a rest room, received the most serious damage as a result of the water release and repairing those rooms involved new ceilings and case work, as well as flooring. The spectacular collection of Oregon artwork, some of which had to temporarily removed, has been reinstalled.
A remarkable effort was required by NBHCP management and staff, working with contractors, to schedule and preform the restoration work in order to minimize to the extent possible impact on patients and pharmacy operations.
“Certainly no one expects or plans for such a significant water release in a health care facility, but it is a testament to the resilience and cooperation of the community that the Nehalem Bay Health Center & Pharmacy was returned to ‘as new’ condition as quickly as humanly possible,” said Marc C. Johnson, president of the Health District. The District’s insurance company is still reviewing all contractor costs and that takes some time, but in one way or another the damage will be covered by insurance.
Johnson said in addition to acknowledging management and staff of NBHCP for their efforts the Health District board expresses it’s great thanks to the City of Wheeler, particularly its public works department, and personnel from Nehalem Bay Fire and Rescue who were outstanding first responders and assisted in minimizing water damage.
