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Discussion and possible action to approve Resolution 2027 Calendar Year Employee Benefits.
The Board discussed proposed changes to employee health benefits, focusing on protecting employees from rising healthcare costs while maintaining responsible use of taxpayer funds. A short-term proposal was presented to have the County absorb increases in insurance premiums as a bridge while longer-term options, including possible self-insurance, are evaluated. The County currently pays 100% of the employee-only premium, while employees are responsible for premiums associated with spouses and dependents, with the County providing a supplement to help offset those costs.
The proposed benefits resolution would increase the employer-funded FSA contribution for employees selecting the Basic plan from $500 to $750 and increase the HSA contribution for employees selecting the High Deductible plan from $1,500 to $2,000. These increases were intended to offset more of employees' deductible exposure while encouraging employees who find those plans appropriate to consider moving from the more expensive High plan. Employees would continue to have the option of remaining on the High plan.
The Board discussed premium savings associated with the lower-cost plans, including an estimated annual savings of approximately $1,765.68 when moving from the High plan to Basic and approximately $2,758 when moving from High to the High Deductible plan. Members noted that increasing the FSA and HSA benefits would return a larger portion of those savings directly to participating employees while still allowing the County to retain some premium savings. The discussion emphasized that the purpose of these incentives is to provide employees with meaningful benefits rather than simply reduce County expenses.
The proposed spouse/dependent medical supplement would increase from $3,600 annually ($300 per month) to $4,260 annually ($355 per month). Members explained that the increase is in...
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