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Select Board adopts 0% Blue Cross premium increase, agrees to phased boost in retiree contributions
Summary
The Select Board approved a Blue Cross renewal option that carries no premium increase for active employees and agreed to raise the town's contribution toward retiree health insurance over three years (5% the first year, then 2.5% and 2.5%). Discussion continues on plan add-ons such as FSA and counseling.
The Clinton Select Board on Feb. 25 voted to adopt a Blue Cross renewal option that carries a 0% premium increase for active employees and agreed to a phased increase in the town's contribution toward retiree health insurance.
Town Administrator Michael Ward presented renewal options including a 3% increase that would retain GLP1 coverage, a 0% option that would eliminate GLP1 coverage, and a higher-deductible plan; he said the advisory board recommended the 0% premium increase. Matt Kobus moved to proceed with the 0% option; the motion passed on a roll-call vote of 5-0.
Retirees who addressed the board, including Maureen O'Laughlin and Brenda Desesa (both identified as retired Clinton Public Schools employees), urged the board to raise the town's share for retirees so it matches the contribution made for active employees. The retirees asked for a phased approach; the record notes the board agreed to increase the town's portion over three years (an increase of 5% in year one, then 2.5% and 2.5% in the following years). Desesa said the current situation amounted to "employees making less are paying more is an injustice," according to the meeting minutes.
Board members said further discussion will continue about optional add-ons to coverage, including flexible spending accounts (FSA) and counseling for GLP1 participants. The meeting record does not specify the timing for finalizing add-ons.
Procedure and next steps: the board's vote implements the 0% renewal option for active employees; the retiree contribution schedule was accepted as the board's plan going forward, and staff were instructed to continue refining optional plan features. The meeting then proceeded to other agenda items and concluded with an executive session for collective bargaining.
