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Council approves health-insurance renewal with 87.5% employer share and $6,000 deductible
Summary
After extended debate over employee costs and dental coverage, the Pratt City Council voted 4–1 to renew its Blue Cross plan effective Sept. 1, 2026, adopting a $6,000 umbrella deductible with the city covering 87.5% of premiums.
The Pratt City Council on July 20 approved a health-insurance renewal that sets the employer cost share at 87.5% and moves the city plan to a $6,000 umbrella deductible, effective Sept. 1, 2026. The motion passed by voice vote, 4–1.
Consultant Mike Midden laid out the options, telling the council that moving to the $6,000 umbrella from Blue Cross and Blue Shield would yield an approximate $47,000 savings on premiums while shifting some out‑of‑pocket exposure to employees. "Let's look at that renewal option 1 with the 6,000," Midden said while summarizing the plan and projected savings. Council discussion focused on protecting lower‑paid employees, preserving dental coverage and whether to phase in changes.
Several commissioners urged a gradual approach and the option of multiple plan tiers in future years; others said the city must find a balance between rising premiums and maintaining the workforce. After debate, the presiding officer moved to approve "the health insurance renewal at $6,000 from Blue Cross and Blue Shield with the employer cost share at 87.5%," the motion was seconded and carried 4–1. The council directed staff to proceed with employee enrollment sessions prior to the Sept. 1 renewal date.
