Board accepts insurance committee recommendation; commissioners agree to begin shopping for next-year coverage

The Gadsden County commissioners accepted a recommendation from the insurance committee to remain in the county's current health care plan for the coming cycle and to have the employer absorb the premium increase referenced by staff.

During discussion, the presenting commissioner summarized the committee’s recommendation: "This agenda item seeks board approval to accept the insurance committee's recommendation to remain in the current health care plan... and for the premium increase to be absorbed by the employer." Commissioners asked staff and HR about timing and payroll deadlines; counsel and staff noted deductions need to start in the October pay cycle and that there is a deadline for payroll processing. Several commissioners also urged starting a competitive bidding process for next year's coverage so the county can compare market options before the next renewal cycle. The board recorded a motion to approve the committee recommendation (option 1) and to have staff begin shopping for next-year rates; the motion was seconded and carried as recorded in the minutes.