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May24,2004 <br /> <br /> Mayor Teague stressed that the rent payment allowed by the state for a DSS <br />facility is insufficient to cover the cost of a new facility, but encouraged the Henry <br />County Board of Supervisors and the new council to work on resolving the issue. <br /> <br /> At 6:24 p.m., the Mayor resumed the normal agenda, calling Iris Read, Human <br /> Resources director for the city. <br /> <br /> Ms. Read discussed various aspects of the human resources budget, stating that <br />the city has not filled as many positions in Fiscal Year 2004 as in previous years. When <br />openings come open, the human resources department advertises more on Martinsville <br />Government Television and the city website. Additionally, the city plans to cut costs by <br />using the insurance consultant less and using more electronic internal communications. <br /> <br /> In benefits, Ms. Read reported that Virginia Retirement System contributions are <br />rising by 19 percent in Fiscal 2005, but state life insurance premiums will not change. <br /> <br /> The health insurance premiums will change because two new HMO options are <br />being added to the existing PPO plan. The city's contribution to premiums will not <br />increase. The city covers 350 employees and 125 retirees under the health plan. <br /> <br /> Ms. Read explained the role of retirees in the health system, stating that <br />$177,840 is budgeted to cover retiree health coverage, which covers retired employees <br />until they reach age 65. <br /> <br /> No changes are expected in the annual, sick or holiday leave programs, but the <br />department is requesting an increase in the education incentive program, service <br />awards and milestone awards. The department also requested permission to implement <br />an on-site disease management program to lower health insurance premium costs. <br /> <br /> <br />