Board selects Surency for COBRA and FSA/HRA administration; HR committee cites RFP review

The Board of Bids and Contracts approved HR's recommendation to engage Surency Life and Health Insurance Company (doing business as Surency) for COBRA administration and for flexible spending/HRA administrative services starting Jan. 1, 2027, under three‑year contracts with two one‑year renewal options.

Tammy Cully, presenting on behalf of Human Resources, said a review committee of HR and partner departments evaluated proposals against the RFP's five criteria (meeting requirements, network access, customer service/member experience, administrative services, overall cost) and unanimously recommended Surency. Chief Human Resources Officer Sheena Smith explained the county uses IMA as a benefits consultant and said Surency's COBRA services reassured staff after issues with the current vendor. Smith also said the COBRA proposal shows an approximate 35% price increase compared with the prior vendor, which the committee attributed in part to Surency being a new vendor for that specific service.

The board moved, seconded and approved the recommendations by roll-call vote. Staff will coordinate with finance and benefits consultants to implement the transitions effective Jan. 1, 2027.