New Franklin council discusses health insurance issues

NEW FRANKLIN – New Franklin City Council discussed issues concerning health insurance during the Aug. 18 regular meeting. No legislation was approved at the meeting, but Mayor Paul Adamson said there have been problems with employees being denied service. City officials have been looking at several options for insurance, including self-insured verses going through a provider.

The city is working with brokers to provide bids for health insurance. New Franklin has an Oct. 1 deadline, but Adamson said that will most likely be extended. Finance Director Susan Cooke said Summa is working on an agreement that is specific to the city.

"We are at a stage that if they need to go there in the interim they can," she said.

Other business:

• Adamson said he had meetings this week on broadband, sewer and water, adding that Manchester High School officials are interested in getting sewer and water. Summit County will allocate funds to the broadband service.

• Adamson asked for everyone to be careful and drive safely as the kids are back and school.

"We have more than our share of accidents this summer," he said.

• There will be a ceremony Sept. 15 as New Franklin was designated a Purple Heart City.

• Officials said the Tudor House barbeque went well and made a profit of more than $7,000. The Tudor House will continue to hold similar events next year.

• Cooke reported the city had an ending balance for July of $7,146,736.41

• Adamson reported that New Franklin Police Department personnel was at Lockhart Field Aug. 18 serving Kona Ice to the kids.

• Resident Walter Oshinsky spoke and said the new broadband was terrific. He also talked about water issues in his neighborhood.

The next regular meeting of the New Franklin City Council and Committees is scheduled for 6 p.m. Sept. 1.