The Brookhaven Board of Aldermen on Tuesday approved going back to Blue Cross/Blue Shield for health insurance for city employees, rather than renew with United Health Care.

Costs for each have increased, but not as much as anticipated, according to City Clerk Samantha Melancon.

“Most employees have complained about the United Health Care coverage,” Melancon said.

The City covers the cost of health insurance premiums for employees, and has historically contributed $300 toward the cost of dependent coverage for those who use it. Ward 5 Alderman Fletcher Grice moved that amount be increased to $350, and it passed unanimously.

The Blue Cross/Blue Shield costs are $536.45 per employee. Additional costs are incurred by the employee for spouse, dependents or family coverage.

No legal advice

The Board approved a motion asking City attorney Bobby Moak to draft a policy statement that city employees are not giving legal advice. The policy will be displayed in offices and on forms.

“The problem we run into is people say, ‘That lady or man told me I could do that,’” said Alderman-at-large Don Underwood. “This is to make it clear that they as citizens are responsible for their own actions. City employees are here to assist them, not to advise them.”