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Board approves county stop‑loss reinsurance renewal at 5.86% increase; deductible remains $115,000
Summary
Supervisors approved renewal of the county’s stop‑loss (reinsurance) coverage through Wellmark/Walmart with a 5.86% rate increase effective July 1, 2026; staff said the rate is favorable compared with statewide benchmarks of 9–11% and noted the deductible where coverage begins is $115,000.
Blackhawk County supervisors approved renewal of the county’s stop‑loss (reinsurance) coverage for the employee health fund during the June 2 meeting.
Amanda (HR director) and benefit consultants recommended continuing the reinsurance arrangement with Wellmark/Walmart, citing administrative efficiencies and a quoted 5.86% increase effective July 1, 2026. Staff said this rate is below commonly reported statewide benchmarks (described in the meeting as roughly 9–11%) and reflected the county’s favorable history on large claims. The stop‑loss deductible under the renewal remains at $115,000, meaning the reinsurance would begin covering claims above that threshold.
Staff and board members discussed the stop‑loss product mechanics, noting that the county purchases reinsurance to limit exposure to very large individual claims. The HR team said annual renewals are common for this market and that the county would consider other carriers only if the market warranted it.
The board approved the renewal by roll call. Staff said county administrators — including the finance director Michelle and auditors — would continue to monitor renewal terms each year and report changes to the board.
