In most years, a health insurance premium increase of 7-9 percent would be considered moderate.

For the coming year, it's great.

The Emmet County Board of Supervisors received the good news - or call it the not-so-bad news if you would like - about the county's health insurance premium increase Tuesday.

Frank Johnson of Secure Benefits presented the quotes which had increases from 7.78 to 9.35 percent, depending on whether the county self-insures 20 or 30 percent of the coverage.

While the figures made the supervisors cringe a bit, Johnson said things could be worse.

"I think you're ahead of the curve," Johnson said, showing premium increases that started in the double digits and went higher. Wellmark Blue Cross-Blue Shield is the major provider and the policy is administered through the Iowa Government Health Care Plan trust (IGHCP). The new policy year would start July 1.

Johnson suggested employees could help offset part of the rate increase. He said Emmet County and Iowa Lakes Community College were the only government entities of which he was aware that paid 100 percent of individual employee premiums.

However, the board stood firm on paying individual premiums, particularly considering that the county won't be able to afford raises next year.

Johnson said he could bring quotes from other companies as well.

In other business, the board appointed supervisor Jim Jenson as its representative to the SHIELD program.

The board also approved the FY 2009-10 audit report.

The board also heard the road report from county engineer Roger Patocka.