County accepts Hope Trust renewal rates; members to be offered high-deductible option; $8,360 dividend announced

Williamson County accepted renewal rates from the Hope Trust after staff reported the county received a 9% increase for the 2026 renewal period and that the trust returned a dividend to members. Staff said the county’s share of the dividend will be $8,360 and that the county will present a high-deductible plan option to employees as a possible cost-savings measure.

Jacob, a county staff member presenting the item, told the board, “the county did receive a 9 percent increase this year for the Hope Trust renewal,” and said staff will prepare spreadsheets and employee meetings to show cost differences if employees choose a high‑deductible plan. Jacob added, “the Hope Trust actually did give dividends back this year, and the county, I believe, received a dividend or will receive a dividend in 2026 for the amount of $8,360.”

Commissioners moved to accept the renewal rates and the plan options staff recommended and held a roll call vote approving the renewal. Staff said the worst-case scenario is the county absorbs the 9% increase if employees do not switch plans; the county may reduce overall costs if some employees move to the high-deductible option.