Commissioners vote to stay with Shepherd Insurance amid limited options

Union County commissioners voted during a regular meeting to continue the county's current health insurance arrangement with Shepherd Insurance after a discussion about limited marketplace options and rising premiums.

Commissioners said bids were sparse for a county of this size and that previous attempts at different arrangements produced poor results. One commissioner moved the county remain with the current carrier: "I make a motion we accept and keep what we're currently doing for the time being." The motion was seconded and approved by voice vote.

Members cited a recent renewal increase figure discussed in the meeting (about 9.9%) and said staff had explored alternate brokers and self‑insurance options without finding better terms. Commissioners also emphasized contract features that allow a termination window if a more favorable option is found later; staff said termination and notice provisions provide a path to change providers if necessary.

The meeting record shows members repeatedly noted customer‑service problems and claim‑experience concerns with past arrangements. Commissioners asked staff to continue soliciting competitive bids and to report back if materially better proposals surface before the county's next renewal window. The vote preserved coverage for employees while the board looks for longer‑term fixes.