During the Douglas County Human Resources Committee meeting on September 29, 2025, a significant recommendation emerged regarding employee benefits, particularly focusing on health and vision insurance rates. The committee proposed a three-year increase in administrative rates, anticipating that these costs will continue to rise in the future.

The discussion highlighted the need for this increase, as the current administrative rates are unlikely to decrease. In contrast, the committee recommended keeping dental rates flat for employees, noting that any potential increase would be minimal—around $50,000—compared to the substantial annual expenditure of approximately $30 million on the medical plan.

Additionally, the committee secured a four-year flat rate guarantee for the vision plan, which is fully insured and funded entirely by employees. This renewal is seen as a favorable outcome, allowing employees to maintain their current vision rates without additional costs to the county. The frame allowance for the vision plan will also see a modest increase from $130 to $150.

The meeting also touched on the Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options, which include unreimbursed medical expenses and dependent care, although the committee noted limited participation in commuter-related expenses.

Overall, these recommendations aim to stabilize employee benefits while managing costs effectively, ensuring that Douglas County can continue to provide essential health services to its workforce.