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Cookeville renews Medicare Advantage plan for retirees despite premium increase
Summary
Council authorized renewal of the city’s Medicare Advantage plan with Blue Cross Blue Shield for 2026 (159 participants); the monthly premium rises from $277 to $299.20. A public commenter thanked the council for maintaining retiree coverage.
The Cookeville City Council approved renewal of the city’s Medicare Advantage plan with Blue Cross Blue Shield for calendar year 2026.
Benefits staff recommended renewal and told the council the plan covers 159 participants, an increase of two from last year. The monthly premium for the plan will increase from $277 to $299.20 — an increase of $22.20 per month — and staff said this is a system-wide change in the Blue Cross Medicare Advantage program that the city cannot avoid if it wishes to remain in the plan.
A public commenter, Prince Charles, praised the council for renewing the plan and described the importance of the coverage for retirees: "It's making health care more affordable for those who've dedicated their careers to public service," he said.
Council approved the renewal by voice vote, 5–0. Staff said they would implement plan renewals on the calendar year and continue to provide the benefit to eligible retirees and employees over age 65.
