Charles Rush stopped in to speak on insurance. He is expecting the remainder of the quotes for Health Insurance this week. He is expecting a 26% increase. We have been pretty lucky with the last few years with the lower increases. The Commission stated they might have to have the employees pay part of the coverage now. They are also wanting all the Elected Officials in on discussing the choices.
The Commission resurrected the Computer, Electronic Main, Devices and Social Media Policy.
Trent made the motion to accept the Computer, Electronic Mail, Devices and Social Media Policy. John seconded. All voted yes. Motion passed. No opposition.
August 6, 2025 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner John Gray and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.
Galen with Group Benefits Services came in on this scheduled meeting to discuss the advantages of their Self-Funded Insurance. Galen stated that they could work through our Insurance Broker as well. He could not give an exact price till they could see the last 24 months claims history. He states that making the jump to a self-funded insurance would need to be small steps. They are flexible enough to be able to make changes to coverages if needed. He mentioned they do try to steer certain things to a contracted or group agreed pricing as in lab work or surgeries. Their process has many added cost help in using their systems. Jim states the Commissioners would need to discuss this before getting our insurance broker involved.
Trent was added to the West Central Community Action Agency Board.
Charles Rush brought in several options for the Commission to look at for the Health Insurance Renewal. A meeting with all elected officials was set for next Wednesday at 2pm.
Work in progress
1. Policy Regarding Indigent Cremations given 8/25/2023 nothing since April.
2. Rattlesnake Hill Roads 11/06/2023 evening meeting 6/11/25 still gaining signatures. As of 7/3/25, ten people have signed and one resident is declaring he will not sign. All need to sign to move the private drives to roads.
3. Policy Regarding Computer, E-Mail, Devices and Social Media given nothing since 2/14/2024. adopted 8/4/25
4. Opioid Settlement Resolution 10/2/2024 (Judge Highley).
5. EEZ Board 3/26/2025 Proposal Fee with scope of work received $12,000.00 fixed fee 6/11/25.
