Erath County renews employee health plan as consultant warns of high claims year

The Erath County Commissioners Court voted Oct. 27 to renew the county’s employee health insurance plan for one year with TAC/nonstop health, following a presentation from the county’s benefits broker, ANCO.

ANCO told the court the county experienced a ‘‘rough year’’ of claims and presented detailed claims and diagnostic data. The consultant said the quoted one-year renewal would be about a 10.6% all-in increase if the county keeps the exact same plan design and benefits. The consultant reviewed market alternatives and said other carriers’ quotes were less favorable; ANCO recommended renewing the current plan and making no benefit changes for the coming year.

Commissioners asked questions about loss ratios and large claimants; the presenter noted the county had several months with very high loss ratios and provided the large-claim breakdown in materials filed with the agenda. The consultant also noted ancillary coverages (dental, vision, voluntary) showed 0% renewal and a two-year rate guarantee for some lines.

After discussion, a motion to renew the county’s health insurance with TAC/nonstop health was made and seconded; the court approved the renewal by voice vote.

Next steps recorded in the meeting: county HR and the auditor will implement the renewed contract terms, notify employees of any premium changes, and reflect the renewal in the FY2026 budget. The consultant and county staff said the next plan-year experience could look different; the renewal decision was presented as the most favorable option available based on current claims data and market quotes.