County updates 457(b) plan, absorbs retiree premium increase and formalizes personnel procedures

Interim HR Director Norma Luna (via colleague Charlotte) presented a package of HR items. The court approved a $300 one‑time amendment fee to update the county's 457(b) plan with Corebridge so the plan can administer new Roth catch‑up accounts required by recent IRS rule changes; staff said the change will not create additional county contributions or ongoing costs.

Charlotte explained HR recommended Ellis County absorb 100% of the retiree supplemental premium increase for calendar year 2027 to avoid disrupting retirees who may need to change plan options because Baylor Scott & White no longer accepts Humana. The estimated county cost to absorb the increase is $69,656.10 (a net increase of roughly $5,000 from current county expense). Commissioners approved the recommendation.

HR also presented written personnel action procedures intended to document and formalize existing processes for pay increases, reclassifications and departmental transfers; the court approved the procedures unanimously.