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Board approves FY27 health-insurance renewal as rates rise 25%; county to cover 80% of premiums
Summary
Supervisors approved a committee recommendation to accept a 25% increase in FY27 health-insurance rates; county staff said the county will continue to fund 80% of premiums and the board discussed HSA/FSA options and employee communications.
The Smyth County Board of Supervisors voted to approve the committee recommendation to accept FY27 health-insurance renewal rates that increase premiums by 25 percent, with the county continuing to fund 80 percent of premiums.
"The county got our... health insurance renewals back, and our rates are going up 25%," said Sean, the county administrator presenting the committee's recommendation. Committee members explained the 25% cap limited the increase and that prescription spending (non-generic drugs) had driven higher usage despite lower overall medical expenses. The committee recommended continuing the county contribution at 80% and exploring high-deductible plans paired with HSAs and FSAs to provide options for employees.
Supervisors discussed communication and enrollment strategies to help employees understand choices, noting open-enrollment materials and an upcoming meeting with plan representatives. County staff estimated the county share of the increase at roughly $700,000 in the discussion; the county also announced a temporary hiring freeze for general-fund positions to help manage FY27 pressures. The board approved the committee recommendation by voice vote.
