Baldwin approves health plan changes

Baldwin City Council voted to approve an item that allows for certain changes in the health insurance plans of city employees.

Council members voted 5-0 at Tuesday’s meeting on the first reading of an ordinance which enables Baldwin to participate in the Georgia Municipal Employments Benefit System Life and Health programs.

Mayor Joe Elam explained what the vote means for the city following the meeting.

“It’s for everyone,” Elam said. “We’ve decided to partner with GMA – they’ve got an excellent program that will help us provide better coverage for our staff, and we’re happy we’re able to move forward with partnering with this.”

“Current coverage has become questionable because when you rate the amount of their deductible, the amount of their co-pay – and unfortunately they’ve lost some participation from doctors from our current coverage – so moving into this new insurance provider will allow our employees to actually take advantage of our insurance,” Elam said.

The second reading is expected to take place at Monday’s meeting.

City officials also announced that there will likely be a quorum of Baldwin City Council at an upcoming transportation forum set to take place Feb. 22 at the HEMC community room, though it is not intended to be a voting session.