Harlingen City Council considers employee health insurance options including Blue Cross and UHC

The Harlingen City Commission convened on June 18, 2025, to discuss several key issues impacting the community, with a focus on employee health insurance and a proposed special use permit for an assisted living facility.

A significant topic of discussion was the city’s health insurance options for the upcoming fiscal year. The city manager presented findings from a recent Request for Proposals (RFP) for health insurance, highlighting that Blue Cross Blue Shield and UnitedHealthcare emerged as the most competitive options. The analysis indicated that switching to Blue Cross could save the city approximately $660,000, representing a 7.5% decrease in costs compared to the current plan. This plan would offer employees a choice between a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) and a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), allowing for flexibility based on individual needs.

The commission emphasized the importance of educating employees about these options during the enrollment period, ensuring that staff understand the differences between the plans and how they can best utilize their benefits. The inclusion of a wellness coordinator program was also noted, which aims to enhance employee engagement in health initiatives.

In addition to health insurance discussions, the commission considered a special use permit for an assisted living facility in a residential area. This proposal sparked debate among commissioners, particularly regarding its potential impact on the neighborhood. While some expressed concerns about traffic and neighborhood integrity, others highlighted the growing need for such facilities in the community. Ultimately, the motion to approve the permit faced opposition, leading to its failure.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore the health insurance options and the implications of the assisted living facility proposal. The outcomes of these discussions are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the city’s approach to employee benefits and community development in the coming year.