Specifications include, but are not limited to: Plan Benchmarking: Determine where the City of Meridian’s Employee Benefit package falls in comparison to market. Benchmark plan costs and employee contributions to industry, size and regional standards on an annual basis and recommend changes, as needed. Financial Analysis: Provide financial data to assist in understanding the costs associated with the benefits offered and analytics to assist the Benefits Committee in making the best decisions possible. Analyze factors driving Client’s plan costs if experience data is available. In connection with such analysis, review utilization reports to determine possible causes of identified cost increases. Assist in managing risks and costs of the employee benefits coverages. Provide cost projections and funding analysis (review of funding methodology with emphasis on employer costs and the tier structure of the contribution.) Model and analyze employee contribution scenarios. Provide predictive modeling to make recommendations to the key designated representatives and/or the Benefits Committee for plan design changes/enhancements and cost saving opportunities. Strategic Planning: Assist the Benefits Committee in planning for the future in terms of the benefits package considering the growth of the City and market trends. Conduct strategic planning sessions to review performance of current employee benefits coverage and establish future objectives and strategies to manage employee benefit coverages. Meet with the key designated representatives and/or the Benefits Committee on a monthly basis, to discuss strategy and open items. Identify and discuss trends and potential problems.