County Board approves health insurance proposal

• Pierce County Courthouse

Pierce County Courthouse

Talk about it

After some debate, the Pierce County Board of Supervisors approved a health insurance plan proposal for 2013.

The big changes are a 16 percent decrease in premiums, deductibles increased to $500/$1,000, office visits would be $20, and 80 percent co-insurance in network and 60 percent co-insurance out network and ER visits will be $100. The premiums will officially be set in the July 23 Finance and Personnel committee meeting.

The issue had some debate after Supervisor Michael Kahlow found out employees weren’t considered in the changes when Administrative Coordinator Jo Ann Miller told him a consulting firm was used so the County would be heading in the right direction to be in compliance with the Health Care Reform Act. Kahlow made a motion to table the request and then get employee consultation. The motion died 12-3 with Ruth Wood and Dean Bergseng siding with Kahlow. Those same three voted no on the proposal.

In other action, the Board:

• Approved the rezoning request of nearly 215 acres in the town of Oak Grove from rural residential to general rural flexible. The owner is NEWCO Finance Inc., and William F. Holst, III, was the agent. The issue brought up some debate as a couple of Oak Grove residents were concerned the request would lead to a sand mine. Land Management Director Andy Pichotta did state by going to rural flexible, it does allow for non-metallic mining, but the owners would have to apply for a Conditional Use Permit through the town first and then the county. Pichotta also stated the permit would have to be in accordance with the town’s comprehensive plan and as of right now, the town of Oak Grove has put a moratorium on mines. The request passed 14-0 with Chairman Jeff Holst abstaining.

For more please read the July 4 print version of the Herald.

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