Human resources outlines insurance, workers’ comp and safety plans in budget presentation

Kelly, representing human resources, reviewed the self‑insurance and health insurance funds, saying the department will revive a safety committee and update an outdated employee handbook to help control benefit and workers’ compensation costs.

Kelly said a wellness initiative with Blue Cross Blue Shield produced an $80,000 communications rebate that the city plans to hold as revenue and may use next year to lower premiums. She said last year the city used about $500,000 of equity in the self‑insurance fund to offset a double‑digit premium increase; for the coming renewal she has budgeted a 5% premium increase but expected the final number to be known at the end of the week.

The HR presentation noted staff changes and salary adjustments in the department: two employees who started three years ago have been reclassified and received market adjustments, and the HR staff complement remains three positions. Kelly said the city has reduced workers’ comp payouts from near $1,000,000 to about $280,000 through ongoing efforts and that Jessica, safety and risk management specialist, will continue to oversee workforce safety, claims management and spot checks of crews.

Aldermen asked for an action plan; Kelly said the safety committee will provide employee buy‑in and frontline observations to reduce risk and that the HR team coordinates with external safety trainers. Council discussed whether HR spot checks were perceived as punitive; Kevin and Kelly said checks are intended as coaching to increase compliance and reduce injuries.

No formal policy changes were voted on during the hearing; the HR items remain part of the budget proposal under review.