Belknap County officials are exploring innovative employee benefits solutions following a recent presentation by CGI, a company specializing in employee benefits administration. During the Belknap County Commissioners Meeting on October 6, 2025, CGI representatives highlighted their unique offerings, which include COBRA administration, retiree billing, and flexible spending services—all provided at no additional cost to clients.

CGI's approach emphasizes compliance and support, with strategic partnerships that ensure clients meet necessary regulations without incurring extra fees. Notably, CGI has established a relationship with Benefits Compliance Solutions, which helps clients navigate compliance requirements, and an exclusive partnership with an employment law firm, Foley & Foley, allowing clients to access legal advice without the worry of unexpected costs.

The meeting also touched on the potential for Belknap County to consider a partially self-funded health insurance model. CGI representatives noted that many organizations are shifting towards this model due to rising pharmacy costs, which can account for a significant portion of total healthcare spending. They indicated that once the county has sufficient claims data, a transition to this model could be beneficial.

In addition to these discussions, CGI emphasized their commitment to high-quality service, boasting a client-to-service ratio that is one-third of the industry average. This allows them to provide personalized support to county employees, addressing issues such as claims and billing efficiently.

As Belknap County evaluates these options, the implications for employee benefits could lead to enhanced services and potential cost savings for both the county and its employees. The county's next steps will involve further analysis of claims data and consideration of the proposed self-funding model, which could reshape their approach to employee healthcare in the future.