Votes at a glance: Magnolia Council approves insurance renewals, boom lift authorization and employee health contract

Magnolia Village Council voted unanimously on multiple routine and spending items during its Oct. 16, 2024 regular meeting.

The council accepted the village insurance renewal after a presentation by Joel Bender of Whitaker-Myers (the transcript also spells the firm 'Whitaker-Greer'). Bender said coverage is comparable to last year with minimal changes and estimated the premium would rise by about $444 to an estimated $16,510 for the year. Councilman Jim Miller moved to accept the policy and Grant Downes seconded; the motion passed with all members voting aye (Res. 2024-19).

On parks and buildings, Council authorized up to $6,000 from village funds if a Safety Intervention Grant covers the remainder of a proposed $23,500 boom-lift purchase. Council member Eric White said he completed the grant application; Jim Miller moved and Claudia Rogers seconded the authorization, which passed unanimously (Res. 2024-20). White said the village hopes to store the lift indoors and will add limestone to the building floor to protect the equipment.

On employee benefits, Council approved a new Aultcare insurance contract showing a roughly 7% premium increase. Jim Miller moved to accept the plan; the motion carried unanimously (Res. 2024-21). Digital Insurance representative Mike Sessor said he is still checking for better rates. Council discussed a single participating employee's interest in joining a spouse's plan and whether a stipend could be offered instead; no final decision on a stipend was recorded.

Other routine votes included approval of the Sept. 18 minutes, acceptance of the fiscal officer's report and payment of bills, each approved by unanimous vote.

The council adjourned at 9:34 p.m. after entering executive session to discuss possible litigation.