Select Board votes to explore health insurance carrier change
Select Board unanimously authorizes health insurance carrier change process. Town Administrator Andrew M. Golas reported that employees absorbed a combined 38 to 40 percent increase in fiscal 2026 after Hampshire County Group Insurance Trust imposed an 18 percent rate increase followed by a 20
Select Board · Meeting of February 24, 2026
CHARLTON — Select Board unanimously authorizes health insurance carrier change process. Town Administrator Andrew M. Golas reported that employees absorbed a combined 38 to 40 percent increase in fiscal 2026 after Hampshire County Group Insurance Trust imposed an 18 percent rate increase followed by a 20 percent mid-year adjustment.
The Board voted to engage in Massachusetts General Law Chapter 32B proceedings to transition from Hampshire County to Massachusetts Strategic Health Group effective July 1, shifting carrier coverage from Blue Cross Blue Shield to Harvard Pilgrim. Insurance advisors NFP indicated minimal network disruption to employees. The Town must notify Hampshire County by April 1 of its intent to leave.
In the full story:
- The complete report — 360 words
Source: the Select Board meeting of February 24, 2026, compiled from the official minutes.
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