Deloitte told the committee the Metro code’s fixed $1,000 individual PPO out‑of‑pocket maximum limits the benefit board’s flexibility and recommended removing the provision, pursuing plan design changes and modeling a distinct lower‑cost third plan that could be effective earliest in early 2029.

After a two‑hour presentation and public comment, the Bourbon County Commission rescinded last week's benefits vote, heard broker Don Doherty outline HSA and defined‑contribution options, and approved an employer contribution package ("Option D") aimed at keeping the 2026 employee benefit program within budget while offering multiple plan choices.