06:58 AM EDT on Tuesday, October 12, 2004

Louisville -- With a statewide teacher strike looming, the Jefferson County School Board is looking into charting its own course.

The board wants to find a better way take care of its employees and their health insurance needs.

From the steps of the Capitol in Frankfort to thousands converging on Waterfront Park, state and local teachers have clearly made it known their displeasure with Governor Ernie Fletcher's health care plan.

Jefferson County is trying to take a different approach.

So on Monday night, they listened to a consultant.

"What if JCPS decided to go off on their own, with a self funded plan for example?" said David Carrell of Gallagher Benefit Services.

The Board will soon learn the feasibility of that option and the possibilities of a wide range of others as well.

In a five to one vote, a $58,000 contract with Gallagher Benefit Services has been given the green light. The contract calls on Gallagher to look at the most and least expensive health care options.

"Everything should be on the table. Let's see the impact," says Board Member Patrick O'Leary

This week state lawmakers continue to work at some kind of solution to the health care crisis. There are three options currently being talked about.

That's why board member Ann Elmore cast the single no vote.

"I won't be able to vote for this tonight, not that it won't come to that," says Elmore. "I just think it's premature."

There is some concern though about the cost of this contract.

"I hate to spend this money like Ann," says Board Member Larry Hujo. "But I think it's an investment."

The consultants will report back to the board in early December. Their report will not look into the legalities of withdrawing from the state's health insurance system. It will examine the financial implications of that plan and other options.