Tipton utility told employees' health plan will move from IU Health to Anthem with no premium increase

Tipton Utility Service Board staff told the board July 21 that the utility’s employee group health plan is expected to move from IU Health to Anthem when the policy renews around Sept. 1 and that employees should not see a premium increase. The staff member said deductibles are expected to fall slightly and the change will primarily look like a new insurance card for employees.

Board members were told the renewal discussion took place earlier the same day with the utility and city insurance representative. The staff member said the overall program is “one size” for all covered employees, with limited a la carte selection; employees may decline ancillary coverage such as dental or vision. The city currently covers most of the premium costs, the staff member said, and the change affects about 100 city and utility employees who share the same health plan. Any optional add-on benefits would be forwarded to the mayor and city for a final decision.

The staff member characterized the anticipated change as financially neutral for employees, saying there would be no premium increase and only minor pricing anomalies. The board did not take a formal vote on the insurance selection at the meeting; staff said the city-level decision process and final paperwork will follow.

Why this matters: The plan change affects the health coverage for the municipality’s workforce and could alter out‑of‑pocket costs or benefit options for employees. The board was briefed on timing, basic coverage structure and next steps for city-level approval.

Board discussion and next steps: Board members asked procedural questions about coverage similarity and employee options; staff described Anthem’s program as “almost exactly the same” as the current arrangement and reiterated that the city pays most of the premium. Staff said they would present any optional add-ons to the mayor and city for a final choice.