Board approves keeping benefit design and moves ancillary benefits to Hartford with two-year guarantee

On April 7 the Crawford County Board of Supervisors reviewed the county’s employee-benefits renewal with broker Holmes Murphy and took action on ancillary benefits.

Keith of Holmes Murphy walked the board through the medical renewal tied to the IGHCP trust, describing two plan designs (a partially self-funded buy-down plan and a high-deductible option) and explaining that while some fixed fees increased, the trust structure limited the county’s increase to about 2.39% overall. He noted the county currently contributes roughly 83% toward single-coverage premiums and presented alternate scenarios that would shift costs to employees or keep employer dollar amounts fixed.

Holmes Murphy also recommended switching the county’s ancillary benefits (basic life and long-term disability) to Hartford after a market review that returned lower quotes and a two-year rate guarantee. The broker said the move would yield modest dollar savings while maintaining existing benefit levels and offering portability and standard enrollment protections.

After discussion, a supervisor moved to retain the same plan designs and employer contribution percentages for the coming year and to accept the broker’s recommendation to move ancillary group life and disability coverage to Hartford. The motion was seconded and passed on a voice vote; the chair recorded an aye. The board also authorized Holmes Murphy to finalize details and to follow up with an enrollment and transition plan for employees.

The board asked staff to continue evaluating alternatives (including voluntary worksite coverages that could reduce employer costs if uptake thresholds are met) and to share an Excel-based contribution model for departmental budget planning.