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Union says health‑insurance negotiations stalled; commissioners urge faster carrier answers
Summary
Adam Lutag, president of CWA 1036, told the board negotiations over health insurance have stalled because the union lacks firm information from external representatives and the carrier; commissioners acknowledged the problem and urged staff to obtain definitive plan details.
Adam Lutag, president of Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1036, told the Hunterdon County Board of Commissioners that contract negotiations over employee health insurance have stalled because the union has not received definitive information from external representatives and the insurance carrier.
"We can't move forward in contract negotiations until we get health care information," Lutag said, describing repeated delays and saying the union’s goal of reaching a contract by the end of the year is unlikely. He said members need concrete plan details to evaluate options and that the current lack of information has delayed progress for more than a month.
Commissioners responded in turn, expressing shared frustration. The chair said health insurance is one of the county’s largest budget items and urged staff to press carriers and external representatives to provide timely plan information so bargaining can proceed. One commissioner described the potential fiscal exposure if premiums increase 30–40 percent and emphasized the need for careful negotiation to avoid costly mistakes.
Lutag concluded by urging the board’s assistance in getting timely information to the unions; commissioners asked staff to follow up and report back.
