Council OKs insurance

SIKESTON - Employee health insurance is up, but not as much as planned for.

City Council members authorized the renewal of the health insurance contract with Alliance Blue Cross-Blue Shield for employees during the special Sikeston City Council meeting this morning.

The increase of 6.3 percent over last year's premium, which should work out to an additional $46,000, is below the national trend and the 10 percent increase city had budgeted.

"The national trend is well into two digits," said Karen Bailey, city treasurer.

The city pays health insurance premiums monthly with the cost based on enrollment.

The total premium paid for 2004 is expected to run about $730,000.

For 2005, officials anticipate the total premiums will be about $776,000.

In other city business:

* Council members discussed a proposal to lease the old MAB building for use as municipal courtroom. The cost to renovate and remodel the building is estimated at $25,000.

* Department of Public Safety Director Drew Juden briefed council members on various options for repairs and renovations to DPS headquarters.