Commissioners vote to approve new stop loss insurance amid ongoing challenges

In a special session held on June 20, 2025, the Williamson County Board of Commissioners addressed critical issues surrounding the county's employee health insurance and stop-loss coverage. The meeting highlighted ongoing concerns about the rising costs of health insurance and the need for improved processes in managing these expenses.

Commissioner Petty expressed frustration over the increasing cost of insurance premiums, which have risen from $40.35 per employee in 2017 to $61.85 currently, alongside a significant increase in deductibles. He raised questions about the limited options available for stop-loss insurance, suggesting that the county might benefit from seeking additional bids to secure better rates. His comments underscored a broader concern about the county's financial management in this area.

The discussion also revealed a procedural hiccup regarding the late filing of a resolution related to stop-loss insurance. Commissioner Sanford sought clarification on why the resolution was not presented in time for the previous meeting, indicating a need for better communication and planning within the Purchasing and Insurance (PNI) committee. The committee's decision to hire an independent broker was seen as a necessary step to improve the county's insurance strategy and potentially save costs in the future.

Commissioner Mason, who chaired the PNI committee, acknowledged the challenges faced during the process and emphasized the importance of public discussions in shaping the decisions made. He noted that the committee's robust discussions led to the decision to carve out the stop-loss coverage from the broader insurance package, allowing for a more focused approach to managing these costs.

The meeting concluded with the passage of the resolution for stop-loss insurance, which is essential for protecting the county against high medical claims. The commissioners recognized the urgency of the matter, as the coverage is set to roll over on January 1, 2026.

As Williamson County continues to grow, the discussions from this meeting reflect a commitment to ensuring that the county's health insurance offerings remain sustainable and effective for its employees. The board's actions signal a proactive approach to addressing the financial challenges associated with employee benefits, ultimately aiming to enhance the well-being of the community it serves.