Boyne City commission approves larger city‑paid life insurance for non‑union staff amid budgeted funds

The Boyne City Commission voted to raise the city‑paid life insurance benefit for non‑union employees at its December meeting, with commissioners saying the cost is already accounted for in the current budget.

Staff presented a memo recommending an increase; the presenter said the additional premium cost would be "just under $2,000" and that the funding was included in the adopted budget. In discussion, staff told commissioners the increase would move the benefit from $50,000 to $100,000, but the motion introduced on the floor later used different language and referenced a $200,000 coverage figure. The motion passed by roll call.

Why it matters: commissioners framed the change as a modest, budgeted enhancement of employee benefits. Several commissioners voiced support noting rising costs of living and the appropriateness of aligning non‑union benefits with union provisions. One commissioner asked whether coverage amounts above $50,000 would create taxable income for employees; staff acknowledged payroll treatment should be checked and reflected correctly.

The commission recorded the motion, called the roll and the motion carried. No amendment was offered. Staff said the fiscal impact was already in the adopted budget and did not expect a material budget change; the exact coverage amount to be recorded in ordinance or policy paperwork was not clarified on the record at this meeting and will require final confirmation from staff and payroll.

The commission then moved on to other items; no further personnel actions were taken at the meeting.