Sullivan County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Sullivan County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Employee health insurance switch to self-insurance
The county spends about $43 million a year on employee health coverage, and its fully insured premium was poised to jump 36%. The self-insurance plan keeps the same benefits and networks but pays actual claims, with stop-loss protection above $150,000 per person and an aggregate cap at 125% of expected claims. Officials expect the change to moderate cost growth and unlock pharmacy rebates.
Senior citizens and disabled veterans property tax exemptions
The county has identified 134 residents who'd qualify for the new property tax exemption for totally disabled veterans, but the law is no longer mandatory statewide — towns' assessors or a countywide resolution must adopt it. Director Walsh is coaching assessors and urging veterans to contact their legislators.
Engineering staffing vacancies
Three engineering positions sit vacant — one for over a year — because consultants are offering new grads $80,000. Committee wants a competitive salary review to land at least two engineers; one vacancy left Roman DiCio running the bridge crew alone.