Insurance Brokerage Services

Muskegon County is seeking proposals for Insurance Brokerage Services through Solicitation 24-2524R, with bids due by 10:00 AM on March 13, 2024, via the electronic Bidnet system. The county is soliciting comprehensive insurance brokerage services for its Human Resources Department, targeting a three-year initial contract with potential two one-year extensions. The selected broker will be responsible for managing and controlling health insurance and compensation costs for approximately 1,071 total employees, with 1,019 being benefit-eligible across nine bargaining groups and non-represented staff. Key deliverables include analyzing claims data, providing utilization reports, supporting plan design options, and implementing wellness initiatives to manage healthcare expenses. The county currently maintains fully insured coverage through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, covering approximately 825 subscribers including 109 retirees and 520 Medicare Advantage subscribers. Ideal candidates will have demonstrable experience with governmental and public agency insurance programs, preferably with a presence in Western Michigan, and must be capable of supporting multiple health insurance plan options including HSA and high-deductible plans with varying deductible levels and co-insurance rates.

The solicitation does not specify strict set-aside designations or restrictions limiting respondent types, though the county has indicated openness to brokers located outside Michigan provided they can demonstrate expertise with Michigan-specific insurance requirements. The current medical insurance program involves total monthly premiums of $1,304,382.06, with the county contributing between 71% and 100% of premiums depending on specific plan and employee classification. Current broker compensation is commission-based, with no stated preference between commission or flat fee structures. The county offers multiple medical plan options for active and retired employees, including high-deductible and HSA plans with different coverage levels. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the substantial monthly premium expenditure suggests a significant potential contract value for the selected insurance brokerage services provider. The solicitation signals a comprehensive approach to managing employee benefits, seeking a strategic partner to help control healthcare costs and provide sophisticated insurance program management.