Grundy County renews health, dental, vision and life insurance policies; projected medical costs to rise about 6.2%

The Grundy County Board approved a package renewing the county’s employee health, dental, vision and life insurance coverage on June 10, following bids conducted by Gallagher Bassett.

County staff said the medical (self‑funded) program combines claims experience and fixed costs; Gallagher negotiated a stop‑loss arrangement and proposed pharmacy cost‑management measures expected to save about $150,000 next year. Overall claims and fixed costs for the medical plan were projected to rise approximately 6.2% for the coming year. The dental program was negotiated as a two‑year contract with Delta at a 3% rate; vision through VSP carries a 1.2% increase with a four‑year rate lock; the life insurance carrier was moved to Dearborn (part of Blue Cross Blue Shield) for an estimated 8% premium decrease compared with the previous carrier’s requested increase.

The renewal package was presented with the recommendation that health insurance be renewed for one year, dental for two years, vision for four years and life for two years. County staff said the health plan required a one‑year renewal due to market conditions while the other plans could be locked for multi‑year terms. The board approved the resolution by roll call vote; the packet and staff presentation documented the competitive bid process and anticipated savings from pharmacy management.

County officials emphasized efforts to limit cost increases while preserving provider access and benefits. The board thanked staff and the Gallagher representative for negotiations that reduced projected costs.