Huber Heights human-resources staff recommended changing the city's 2026 employee health plan carrier to Cigna during the Nov. 5 work session, citing a steep renewal quote from the incumbent carrier and a more competitive offer from Cigna.

HR staff (Katie) said the incumbent renewal had been quoted at about a 30% increase (roughly a $1 million increase) and that the broker sought competing quotes. Cigna proposed a smaller increase (approximately 5%, roughly $175,000 higher than 2025 levels), and staff recommended moving carriers to limit the budget impact. Staff also recommended changing dental and vision carriers (Superior Dental and EyeMed) based on competitive bids.

Staff asked council to place the insurance selections on the Monday agenda for approval; council members requested staff provide premium and plan-level cost details for employees before final adoption. John and others emphasized the need to balance budget pressures with access to provider networks and pharmacy benefits.

Why it matters: The city pays employee benefits through the general fund and other funds; a large single-year increase in premiums would affect the 2026 budget and could lead to more significant employer or employee cost-sharing decisions if not managed.