Franklin County selects Marsh McLennan as employee benefits broker

Franklin County commissioners voted to appoint Marsh McLennan as the county’s insurance broker to advise on employee medical, dental, vision and ancillary benefits. The decision followed a multi‑firm vetting process and public presentations. "I would move that we approve Marsh McLennan as Franklin County's new insurance broker," Commissioner Baumann said before the board voted.

County Administrator Brian Danzel told the board the broker will help the county manage and optimize employee benefits and navigate complex insurance markets. "A qualified experienced broker is essential to navigate the complexities of health insurance, ensure competitive rates, and provide comprehensive support for the county's medical, dental, vision, and ancillary benefits," Danzel said during the presentation.

Nut graf: Commissioners said the selection concluded a competitive review intended to find a broker with capacity to negotiate rates, advise on plan design and support an evaluation of options including self‑insurance. The board made the appointment after presentations and public comment during the meeting.

In discussion, no commissioner raised objections to selecting Marsh McLennan. Commissioner Mullen seconded the motion; the board then voted in favor. The county administrator told commissioners the county had fully vetted the finalist firms in a “robust process.”

The selection sets the county up to begin broker‑led work on benefit plan design, pricing comparisons and implementation tasks identified by staff. Danzel emphasized the broker's role in improving efficiencies and competitive rates through market access and contracting expertise.

Ending: Staff indicated next steps will be to finalize a contract and begin onboarding the broker. The county did not provide a dollar value for the broker contract during the meeting, and no additional budget action was reported at the time.