JAMESTOWN - The Jamestown C-1 Board of Education, by a 4-2 vote, capped the school district's contributions to staff insurance coverage at $475 per employee during its April 11 meeting.
Previously, the district's cap was $428 per person including dental coverage. The basic out-of-pocket deductible of $5,000 for employees will remain the same.
Under the new cap, the district would contribute $208,100 a year to staff insurance coverage.
"The biggest change is now if the staff wants to purchase dental, it will be available, but they will have to purchase it themselves," Superintendent Gretchen Guitard said.
Employees may add family, children or spouse to the plan at an additional cost.
Dr. John Jones, board treasurer, said he voted against the increase because of its long-term effects.
"I have concerns of personnel costs relative to size of revenue," Jones said.
Guitard said the board does contribute a significant amount to employees' plans.
"It's really important to attract and retain quality teachers to have a strong salary and benefit offer," she said.
Frank Higgins with TIG Advisors told the board he has handled the district's insurance for 12 years. He said he recommended raising the cap due to an increase in claims.
"Even though we're taking a spike in rates this year, if over the next 12 months claims run well, you still could have a potential to get the surplus back," Higgins said.
In other action, the board:
Recognized Shawna Schnieders for her three years on the board as she stepped down.
Welcomed Lou Ann Wolfe to the board.