Soderberg’s sister, Susan Hays, was hired to manage the gift shop in June 2009 and shares the same sentiments.

“It’s just a sad situation that it’s come to this,” Hays said. “If they knew (the coffee and gift shop) were hurting, then why would they hire me?”

Hays also said she doesn’t understand what will come of the gift shop if the hospital expansion is approved.

“Nobody has seen the plans to have a gift shop, and we keep asking but all anyone says is that it’s going to be a medical retail store,” Hays said. “My understanding is that they won’t have the flowers or cards or gifts so I don’t know what their plan is for where that stuff would go.”

The letter sent to members said the net income from the coffee and gift shop has seen a steady decline in recent years. In 2009, the net income for the year was $3,478, compared to a net income of $16,387 in 2004. Each year since 2004 has seen a decline in net income, and much of that is due to an increase in gross wages, Nordeng said.

Funds generated through the Auxiliary have previously been used to help fund the AMC’s chapel, along with other hospital projects. The organization has donated $400,000 to the hospital.

List said she recognizes the financial issues the Auxiliary is facing, and she hopes members can reach a solution that fits everyone.

“I see the financial part that (the coffee and gift shop) is losing money,” List said. “The volunteers are great and they’re really appreciated, and I would hope that we can work together as an organization and become one good team again. I feel that we’re kind of divided and that doesn’t help.”

List said that all anyone can do at this point is look at what’s going on now and not worry about the future or what will happen if the hospital expansion is approved.

“Change is difficult,” List said. “I just hope that each and every one of (the members) have read the information and vote with their own heart and mind.”