SUBJECT
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Discussion with possible action to approve the proposed changes to the medical insurance rates for the City of Laredo Health and Benefits Plan for all employees, retirees and dependents. Funding will be available in the Health and Benefits fund.
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VIVA LAREDO PLAN ALIGNMENT
Alignment Rating: Strong
Supporting goal(s)/policy(ies):
Policy 7.2.1: "Support and enhance access to preventive care and wellness services through employer-sponsored health benefits and incentives."
(Page 7.22, Viva Laredo City of Laredo Comprehensive Plan)
Policy 7.2.3: "Encourage healthy behaviors and provide incentives for wellness within public employee programs."
(Page 7.22, Viva Laredo City of Laredo Comprehensive Plan)
Goal 7.2: "Promote health equity by supporting health care access and preventive health practices for all residents."
(Page 7.22, Viva Laredo City of Laredo Comprehensive Plan)
Policy 7.3.1: "Ensure affordability of care and access to insurance coverage for vulnerable populations."
(Page 7.22, Viva Laredo City of Laredo Comprehensive Plan)
Policy 7.4.1: "Incorporate health into city budgeting and decision-making, particularly with respect to city staff programs."
(Page 7.22, Viva Laredo City of Laredo Comprehensive Plan)
Summary of alignment:
The agenda item proposing changes to medical insurance rates for FY25-26 exhibits strong alignment with the Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan. By adjusting premium spreads and dependent coverage contributions while introducing an HSA incentive, the City of Laredo is directly supporting policies that advocate for equitable access, affordability, and incentivized wellness in employee health care.
These proposed actions reflect a deliberate integration of health considerations into city operations and budgeting-an approach emphasized in Goal 7.2 and Policy 7.4.1. Additionally, the item reinforces broader planning themes such as public health, equity, fiscal responsibility, and sustainability of municipal services....
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