City of Marion sees increase in health insurance rates
Marion City Commission approved the 2004 health insurance rates for the city employees and families.
"The current policy reflected a 6.44 percent increase. A 30 percent increase was budgeted," reported David Mayfield, city administrator, "so we're in good shape."
The Blue Cross/Blue Shield insurance policy will go in affect March 1. The city will continue to pay 50 percent of the employee's co-pay for dependents and spouses.
Mayfield reported that the representative from Blue Cross/Blue Shield will present information to city employees regarding dental insurance and short term disability insurance.
Employees may enroll in either or both programs, said Mayfield. Enrollment will be paid 100 percent by the employee.
Commission also approved a $200 donation to the Marion County Big Brothers/Big Sisters Bowl for Kid's Sake.
Jim Crofoot, commissioner, asked if the money stayed locally. Mayfield and Michel Soyez, former Big Brothers/Big Sisters board member, answered that the money raised would stay within the county.
In other business:
— Margo Yates, Marion Chamber of Commerce director, presented a tourism report. The KVC Bike Rally will be April 24 in Central Park. Marion County Economic Development Council will sponsor a booth at the Sports, Boat, and Travel Show.
Yates reported that the chamber's tourism and Christmas decorations committees combined to form one committee since they are working toward common goals.
The Kansas Sampler Festival will be May 1 and 2 at Newton. Marion will have a booth at the festival.
Yates has been re-elected as president of the Prairie People Tourism Association.
— Mayfield informed the commission that a grant is being sought for a new fire truck. The city currently has a 1969 Chevrolet Pumper Truck. Parts for the vehicle are becoming obsolete because of the age of the truck.
A new truck will cost between $180,000 and $200,000, Mayfield said. The truck is being budgeted in the equipment reserve fund and Mayfield said it could be replaced by 2007, if no other major expense is incurred.
"We're looking at all of the options," said Mayfield, "including new and used vehicles."
— Police chief Soyez reported that Duane McCarty has been hired as a full time police officer. McCarty has been a part time officer at Florence for 17 to 18 years, said Soyez, and will make plans to attend the police academy to become certified.
— Harvey Sanders, public utilities director, presented a written report to the commission. He reported that the city crews began snow removal at 2 a.m. Monday.
The city experienced equipment failure with the snow blower on the skid loader and a maintainer breaking down.
