Committee reviews health-insurance changes and state/federal budget items affecting county revenue and programs

ASHLAND, Wis. — The Finance Committee reviewed changes in the county’s group health plan and several state and federal budget items that could affect county finances and services. County staff reported that the county’s health-insurance surcharge will step down (noted in the meeting as moving from an earlier level toward 15% and then to 0 over time), while premiums in the pool are increasing roughly 11%. Staff said that, taken together, the county’s net cost in the current year is roughly similar to prior coverage and that the county is likely better off in the long run relative to having remained in the prior self-insurance arrangement — though consultants warned that broader federal Medicaid changes could increase rates in coming years. On state budget items, staff highlighted a new two-year state appropriation that provides an annual allocation for counties that host federally recognized tribal headquarters; Ashland County’s share was discussed as about $183,000 for each of the next two years under the current state budget. Committee members said the funds are helpful but cautioned the legislature could change future budgets. Committee members also discussed SNAP education funding that supported local extension positions; staff said those grant positions will end Sept. 30 when the funding runs out. Members expressed concern about SNAP and Medicaid changes at the federal level and the county’s exposure if the state or feds cut reimbursements that currently flow through county programs. Committee members asked staff to monitor federal and state actions — including potential changes in register-of-deeds recording fees and Medicaid policy — and to report back if the county must adjust budgets or program staffing.