Both lines start at 100 in FY2006 so you can compare how fast each grew. Marblehead, FY2006–FY2027.
Health insurance spending grew faster than the tax levy for most of FY2006–FY2023.
The FY24 dip: The GIC replaced the Harvard Pilgrim Independence Plan with Access America. Per-employee premiums rose 11.6%, but total town spending fell 8.7% under the new plan. Staffing was flat.
The FY26–FY27 spike: GIC rate increases driven by Marblehead's 119% loss ratio (claims exceeding premiums), attributed in part to GLP-1 drug costs. The FY27 budget projects a 15% increase. The GIC voted in February 2026 to drop GLP-1 weight-loss drug coverage starting July 2026, which may slow future growth, but FY27 rates were already set.
Through FY24 (actual): levy +86%, health insurance +75%. Through FY27 (projected): levy +103%, health insurance +110%. Solid lines are actual data. Dashed lines after FY24 are projected.
Tax levy from MA Department of Revenue, FY06–FY24 (includes debt exclusions). FY25–FY27 projected at 3% annual growth (Finance Committee rate for levy + new growth).
Health insurance ("Group Insurance") from ACFR budget schedules (FY06–FY13), Finance Committee reports (FY14–FY25), and proposed budgets (FY26–FY27). FY20 not publicly available (dashed connector). Includes active employee health insurance, Medicare supplement, and Medicare reimbursement for all town and school employees.
Rates are set by the state Group Insurance Commission (GIC). The town joined the GIC in FY2012. The GIC sets plan designs and premium rates; the town has no control over either. The GIC voted 10–7 in February 2026 to drop GLP-1 weight-loss drug coverage effective July 2026, but FY27 rates were already set before that decision.
Loss ratio and GLP-1 attribution from Sue Shillue of Hill Group (town insurance consultant), reporting to the Public Employee Committee. Quoted in Marblehead Independent, "Possible insurance break gives Marblehead budget outlook a lift." Plan names from GIC published rate sheets (mass.gov). GLP-1 coverage decision from GIC board vote, February 2026.