Concerns over healthcare benefits have been at the forefront for Milwaukee County employees and retirees, following the unexpected expiration of a crucial health care contract. The lapse has prompted county supervisors to demand transparency and accountability.
Last week, the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors ratified a new agreement with UnitedHealthcare and Optum Rx. This decision came on the heels of revelations that the previous contract had lapsed at the close of the previous year.
With this backdrop, some supervisors are calling for Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley to ensure such an oversight does not recur. The term “significant error” has been used to describe the situation.
Supervisor Steve Taylor, having opposed the recent contract approval, has voiced his discontent with Crowley’s approach. He emphasized, “You have been the face of Milwaukee County the past six years; you need to be the face on this issue.” Taylor seeks a compilation of all records leading to the contract’s lapse and hopes Crowley will personally address the board in a forthcoming meeting.
Following the lapse, Crowley stated that the individual responsible no longer works with the county. While the statement did not specify the individual, it was confirmed that Tony Maze, the Human Resources Benefits Director, was no longer employed.
Other supervisors, including Sheldon Wasserman, have also criticized Crowley’s handling, emphasizing the need for preventive measures. “It’s his job to do this,” Wasserman remarked, referencing Crowley’s potential gubernatorial aspirations.
Supervisor Deanna Alexander has announced plans to review the county’s procurement and contracting mechanisms, stressing that failures in these systems affect “real people, real families, and real access to care.”
Before the board’s decision last Thursday, Crowley addressed some media queries, assuring that no one was left without coverage during the lapse and that measures were being put in place to avoid future errors.
Supervisor Shawn Rolland believes Crowley’s response has been appropriate, stating, “I’ve been happy to see the quick response,” and suggesting that the focus should remain on solving problems rather than assigning blame.
The new contract, now active, will remain valid through the end of 2030, covering over 5,100 county affiliates. With the county being self-insured, it benefits from reduced rates under this agreement. In light of the lapse, some supervisors advocate for a tracking system to monitor contract deadlines.
Amidst these developments, Crowley’s run for governor has come under scrutiny, with critics using the incident to question his leadership capabilities. His campaign maintains that he is the only gubernatorial candidate with “real, hands-on experience solving these kinds of problems.”
