The Clinton County Commissioners convened for their latest meeting to address a wide range of business, including a major shift in employee health insurance costs, ongoing unsafe structure enforcement, infrastructure upgrades, public safety policy, and government office transitions into the new annex building.
The county faces sharp health insurance increase after a surge in claims. After nearly a decade of exceptional performance in its self-funded health insurance plan averaging less than 1% premium growth annually Clinton County is now confronting a dramatic spike in costs. Claims over the past 18 months have surged, resulting in loss ratios of 138% in 2024 and 147% year-to-date in 2025. For every dollar collected in premiums, the county has paid out up to $1.47 in medical claims, a level that officials say is unsustainable.
Anthem, the county’s current health insurance provider and the only company willing to bid on renewal, initially proposed a 53% rate increase. After negotiations led by the benefits committee and LHD consultants, the increase was reduced to 22% through plan changes and modest employee contribution adjustments.
Key plan modifications include a switch to Anthem’s HealthSync network, broader provider access, and new tiered costs:
- Primary care visit: $40 (up from $35)
- Specialist visit: $80 (up from $50)
- Out-of-pocket maximums remain the same and apply across all tiers.
IU Health providers, previously considered Tier 1, will now be Tier 2, resulting in higher co-pays. County leaders encouraged employees to use the county health clinic, which remains free and helps reduce claims.
The county’s insurance expense will increase by more than $400,000—greater than the $250,000 that was budgeted—prompting budget adjustments. Salary increase projections were reduced from 2.5% to 2%, saving approximately $100,000. Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) contributions were preserved to support employee compensation. Officials emphasized that, despite cost increases, county employees will continue to pay less than private market averages.
They said they will continue to enforce safety standards while offering reasonable opportunity for compliance.
The highway department gave an update on projects and review on equipment. The Commissioners approved 2026 paving projects in Circleville and Hillsburg, as well as work on Krug Road, Freeman Street, and County Road 600 West from State Road 26 to 700 North.
A county utility truck was upgraded from 4×2 to 4×4 to improve performance and resale value.
A demo-model snowplow will be purchased for $9,698 using remaining vehicle funds.
Officials debated a proposal to lease three tractors at $30,600 each per year for five years. Commissioners questioned the cost-effectiveness of leasing versus purchasing and requested a full financial comparison.
The county renewed its asphalt materials bid for a fourth year, securing no price increase and potential cost reductions.
A request was made to consider longevity pay eligibility for an employee who missed the qualification date by four days. The matter will go to the county council for review.
Following improved conditions, commissioners lifted the countywide burn ban. Since its implementation, there were 25 reported illegal burns but no fines issued. Commissioners expressed concerns over lack of enforcement and urged residents to use common sense during dry or windy conditions.
Residents asked for more clarity in future decisions, and officials confirmed burn restrictions are determined at the commissioners’ discretion in consultation with emergency management and local fire departments.
The Commissioners approved a temporary contract worker for the County Extension Office during staffing transitions. The worker will be paid $14 per hour and issued a 1099 if exceeding $600.
Meanwhile, departments have begun relocating to the new County Annex Building. The Surveyor’s and Treasurer’s offices successfully completed their moves, and commissioners praised staff efforts for ensuring a smooth transition. The move marks a significant modernization effort for county services.
Additional Approvals and Reports
Lease arrangements were approved to relocate the Prosecutor’s Office and Child Support Division temporarily to Old Stoney during renovations.
Sign placement requests were approved for St. Vincent de Paul and St. Mary’s Fall Bazaar.
Health Department reported the first tattoo and body modification permit issued under the county’s new ordinance and noted ongoing Serve Safe food safety training.
Emergency Preparedness reports indicated successful active shooter training in Rossville, with future training planned in Frankfort schools.
All payroll and claims were approved, and minutes from prior meetings were accepted.
The next Commissioners meeting is scheduled for November 4 at the new annex. Officials anticipate significant public interest as the meeting will focus on a major data center proposal and opportunities for public engagement.
Commissioners concluded the meeting by noting that the transition to the annex symbolizes a new era of accessibility, efficiency, and forward progress for Clinton County government.