Putnam County committee approves pre-file to cap employee health-insurance contributions at 17%

The Putnam County Personnel Committee voted Nov. 12 to pre-file a resolution that would cap the highest employee health-insurance contribution at 17%, a move county officials said is intended to aid recruitment and retention.

Personnel Officer Paul Eldridge told the committee that newer employees in lower-salary brackets had been paying up to 30% of premium costs; he said a family plan exceeds $40,000, making the employee share for some hires about $12,000 a year. Eldridge said County Executive Byrne convened a review committee in June 2024 that recommended reducing the maximum contribution to 17%.

Legislator Birmingham proposed amending the resolution language so the contribution “shall not exceed” 17%, noting the change would protect employees already paying less from any increase. Legislator Ellner asked to discuss confidential figures in executive session; the committee entered executive session at 6:56 p.m. and reconvened at 7:01 p.m. No substantive action was taken during the closed session.

After the executive session the committee approved a motion by Legislator Birmingham to pre-file the resolution with the amendment applying to Management/Confidential employees; Chairman Jonke seconded and, by roll call, the committee recorded all ayes. Personnel Officer Eldridge said any necessary changes would be incorporated into the employee handbook.

Why it matters: Committee members and county staff said the change is intended to make Putnam County more competitive in hiring by reducing out-of-pocket health costs for new employees, particularly those entering at the lowest salary steps.

What’s next: The pre-filed resolution will be forwarded to the Legislature for consideration and final approval.