County amends early-retirement code, bars re-entry to coverage after decline

The Allen County Board of Commissioners approved amendments to the county code on April 24 clarifying medical coverage rules for early retirees. Allen County Attorney Laura Maser presented amendments to Title 1, Article 20 (Sworn Officers) and Article 21 (Eligible Employees), stating the amendments remove ambiguity and specify that employees who retire early may not re-enroll in county medical coverage after declining it.

Maser said the change applies to employees who meet the eligibility threshold — for sworn officers she noted age 55 with 20 years of service — and makes clear that once an eligible employee declines coverage at retirement they are not permitted to return to the county plan. Commissioners approved both amendments by 3-0 votes.