Caswell County votes to absorb FY2026 health-insurance premium increase

The Caswell County Board of Commissioners voted to have the county absorb the projected $142,000–$143,000 increase in employer health-insurance premiums for FY2026, directing staff to reflect that decision in upcoming budget documents.

County staff presented multiple cost-share scenarios during the April 7 meeting. County staff said the total annual insurance budget is roughly $2.38 million and that the county had collected six cost-share options for the board to consider. The county manager recommended the county absorb as much of the increase as possible to support retention and recruitment.

Commissioner Ingram moved that the county pay the entire $143,000 increase; Commissioner Rose seconded the motion. The board approved the motion by voice vote; the chair declared the motion carried.

Presentations to the board noted that the county previously approved a two-year MOUD jail program and that the county has experienced turnover; commissioners said limiting employee out-of-pocket increases is an important retention tool. Staff will incorporate the board's direction into the FY2026 budget and proceed with open enrollment materials for employees.

The board did not adopt a change to base salary schedules at the meeting; the action pertained only to how the insurer27s premium increase will be allocated between the county and employees.