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Councilors press on 34% health‑insurance spike and employee costs
Summary
Council members and participants identified a projected 34% increase in employee health insurance as a top concern; former finance director Sandra Garcia said employee‑only premiums could rise from about $549 to roughly $735 per pay period and the council agreed to explore alternative brokers.
Health‑insurance cost increases dominated the council’s budget questions during the special session. A participant said health insurance is the biggest concern for employees; the meeting heard a projected 34% increase in premiums and that employee‑only coverage would move from roughly $549 to $735 per pay period.
Sandra Garcia confirmed those figures in response to questions and said family coverage would be substantially higher, which prompted a council request to solicit competitive bids. One participant urged the city to bring in another broker or look for alternative plans; Garcia and council members agreed to set up a meeting with the new city manager and the current broker to explore options.
Council members emphasized urgency given the timing of the budget finalization. The session did not result in a contract decision; instead, staff were directed to investigate alternatives and report back before the insurance renewal deadline.
