(ANGOLA) - Steuben County's employee health insurance plan is running below projections so far this year, according to a report presented to county commissioners Tuesday.
USI Insurance Services Co-Op President Jody Kinsey told commissioners that expected medical claims through March totaled $861,870, while actual paid claims came in at $820,348.
If the trend continues, the county's medical coverage cost per employee is projected to decrease from $14,199 in 2025 to $13,691 this year, a reduction of about 3.6 percent.
Kinsey credited strong participation in the county's diabetes management program and the county's first year in the Well Works wellness initiative.
She said employee engagement in the diabetes program has remained high, with participants working closely with clinicians and following treatment plans. Kinsey told commissioners improved health outcomes have helped control costs for the county's health plan.
Kinsey also reported an 85 percent participation rate during the county's first year in Well Works, a program designed to connect employees with primary care providers and encourage preventive care.
Updated projections are expected later this summer.
Request for Proposals Timeline Approved
During a continued session Tuesday afternoon, commissioners approved a timeline for a Request for Proposals process involving a county-owned building.
Commissioners agreed proposals will be due July 31 and opened during the board's Aug. 4 meeting. Board members also discussed coordinating building access and information requests from interested parties during the proposal process.
Other Business
• Building Repairs Approved
Commissioners approved more than $150,000 in repairs at two county facilities. Atlas Construction Services was awarded a $101,773 contract for repairs at the Steuben County Community Center and a $48,773 contract for masonry repairs at the historic jail building that houses Community Corrections. Facilities and Maintenance Superintendent Austin Keck said the projects are part of an ongoing effort to address water infiltration and deteriorating masonry. Work is expected to begin before September.
• Emergency Preparedness Kits Planned
Commissioners approved a proposal from Emergency Management Agency Director Lee Greenamyer to assemble disaster preparedness kits using donated supplies. The kits will be used to help residents prepare for emergencies at no cost to the county