The numbers ahead look difficult for Union County’s 2026-2027 budget. Human resources assistant Michaela Clemons said the county’s pre-renewal call projected another 25% increase in employee health insurance, which has already risen 25% in each of the past two years. A renewal meeting is set for July 16. Clemons said the county had expected a surplus return this year until a catastrophic claim erased it. County Coordinator Jimmy Williams said the county will price high-deductible plan options and quotes from other carriers, and Commissioner Melissa McNeal suggested pairing a high-deductible plan with local direct primary care memberships. Subscribers click here for the full story.
