Martin County Selects Employee Insurance, Ends “Opt-Out” Program

The Martin County Board of Commissioners convened to address several administrative and financial matters, particularly regarding employee benefits.

The board introduced health insurance plan options for the coming year, which were already reviewed by the Council and the Auditor’s Office. Two plans were approved through UnitedHealthcare: an EE 4K Alternate 3 plan and an E 4Z Alternate 3, which is a Health Savings Account (HSA) plan. Dental and vision coverage were also discussed. While the Commissioners initially approved Humana’s Option Two dental plan, that decision was later rescinded to allow an additional review of provider networks and employee impact. Approval was given to make the final determination via email before the beginning of open enrollment.

In a significant change, the board voted to eliminate the county’s insurance “opt-out” program, which previously paid employees who declined county health insurance. Beginning with the 2026 insurance year, full-time employees and elected officials will receive a $4,000 annual compensation supplement to help offset rising insurance costs. The supplement will be provided regardless of whether coverage is obtained through the county or another provider.

Chief Deputy Keller presented a quote for three replacement laptops for the Sheriff’s Office at a cost of $2,059.97. In the department’s current inventory, one laptop is no longer operational, and two others are incompatible with current software requirements for Windows 11. The Commissioners approved the purchase, which will be funded through the county’s computer replacement budget.

For more information on these and other updates, visit the Martin County Indiana Courthouse Facebook page.

- Drew Hasselbring