Resolution No. 098781
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RESOLUTION NO. 9878
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
VERNON APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A
COBRA ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES AGREEMENT BY AND
BETWEEN THE CITY OF VERNON AND IGOE & COMPANY
INCORPORATED DBA IGOE ADMINISTRATIVE -SERVICES
WHEREAS, on April 7, 2008, the City Council of the City of
Vernon adopted Resolution No. 9585 approving a COBRA Administrative
Services Agreement with Igoe & Company Incorporated dba Igoe
Administrative Services ("Igoe") for the period April 1, 2008 through
IMarch 31, 2009; and
WHEREAS, the Risk Manager has recommended that the COBRA
Administrative Services Agreement with Igoe be renewed for the period
April 1, 2009 through December 31, 2009, at the same rate as last
year, $75.00 per month, plus additional services as requested; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Vernon has
determined that, pursuant to the provisions of subsection (a) of
Section 2.27 of the Vernon City Code, it is in the public interest and
necessity to approve an agreement with Igoe for COBRA services.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF VERNON AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby
Ifinds and determines that the recitals contained hereinabove are true
land correct.
SECTION 2: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby
approves the COBRA Administrative Services Agreement with Igoe, in
substantially the same form as the copy which is attached hereto as
Exhibit A and incorporated by reference.
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SECTION 3: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby
authorizes the Mayor or Mayor Pro-Tem to execute said Agreement for,
and on behalf of, the City of Vernon and the City Clerk or Deputy City
Clerk i's hereby authorized to attest thereto.
SECTION 4: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby
authorizes the City Administrator, or his designee, to make whatever
nonsubstantive, administrative and/or text changes, upon advice of
counsel, to the Agreement.
SECTION 5: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby
directs the City Clerk, or her designee, to send one fully executed
Agreement to:
Igoe Administrative Services
Attn.: Michael C. Igoe, President/CEO
15090 Avenue of Science, Suite 201
San Diego, CA 92128
SECTION 6: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby
approves and authorizes the City Administrator, or his designee, to
perform such acts and deeds as may be necessary or convenient to
effect the purposes of this Resolution and the transactions herein
approved or authorized and to execute any and all documents as shall
be required to complete the COBRA services consistent with the terms
of the Agreement herein.
I/ / /
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1 SECTION 7: The City Clerk of the City of Vernon shall
2 certify to the passage of this resolution, and thereupon and
3 thereafter the same shall be in full force and effect.
4 APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 9th day of March, 2009.
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6 Name: Leonis`C. Mallburg
Title: Mayor Za-y,&T--P-r��em-
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9 ATTEST:
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11 MANUELA GIRC)tl-, tity Clerk
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA
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COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES
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4 1, MANUELA GIRON, City Clerk of the City of Vernon, do hereby
5 certify that the foregoing Resolution, being Resolution No. 9878, was
6 duly adopted by the City Council of the City of Vernon at a regular
7 meeting ofthe City Council duly held on Monday, March 9, 2009, and
8 thereafter was duly signed by the Mayor or Mayor Pro-Tem of the City of
9 Vernon.
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-MANUELA (�-rROW, City Clerk
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(SEAL)
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EXHIBIT A
COBRA ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES AGREEMENT
This Agreement made on April 1, 2009, between City of Vernon (hereinafter referred to as
"Client"), with principal offices at 4305 Santa Fe Avenue, City of Vernon, State of California, and Igoe
ft Company Incorporated dba Igoe Administrative Services (hereinafter referred to as "Igoe
Administrative Services" or "Business Associate"), with principal offices at 15090 Avenue of Science,
Suite 201, City of San Diego, State of California.
In consideration of the mutual covenants contained in this Agreement, Client and Igoe
Administrative Services agree as follows:
1 Client desires to have Igoe Administrative Services provide administrative and clerical
functions related to Client's compliance with Health Care Coverage Continuation under
the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (COBRA), as amended.
2. In consideration for the fees and charges detailed below, Igoe Administrative Services
hereby agrees to perform said administrative and clerical functions subject to the
following terms and conditions:
a. This Agreement shall be for a period of nine (9) months beginning on the date
first above written, subject to Client's right to earlier termination in Section
2j(1), and Section 4(f). If Client or Igoe Administrative Services does not
desire to renew, the terminating party must give the non -terminating party
written notice sixty (60) days prior to the expiration of this Agreement of their
intent not to renew said 'Agreement. Further, Igoe Administrative Services
must give notice to Client regarding -any change in fees for the additional
period of one (1) year at least sixty (60) days prior to the expiration of this
Agreement.
b. The terms Administrative and Clerical Functions to be performed by Igoe
Administrative Services are defined as:
(1) Sending of notices to qualified beneficiaries (PQBs) as required under
COBRA within the time required by law and with proof of mailing,
including without limitation (a) initial notification of all covered
employees and spouses of their continuation rights; (b) notification of
coverage continuation rights with election form; (c) notification of
conversion rights upon termination of group coverage when
applicable; (d) notification of coverage of continuation rights for
subsequent qualifying events; (e) notification of termination of COBRA
continuation coverage for non-payment of premium or at the end of
any COBRA continuation period; and (f) notice of unavailability of
continuation coverage.
(2) Communicating with PUBs regarding COBRA coverage.
(3) Collecting Premiums monthly from each PUB.
(4) Reporting Premiums to Client and remitting premiums each month
received to Client or Client's designee.
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(5) Reporting enrollees to Client (courtesy copy sent to insurance
carriers).
(6) Reporting terminations to Client.
(7) Sending DOL Notices (New Hires Letters), as requested by Client
(additional fee will apply).
(8) Sending HIPAA Certificates (included in notice).
(9) Maintain hard copy or electronic files of all notifications and
correspondence for seven years or longer if required by law.
(10) Communicate new premium rates to each PQB upon open enrollment
after receiving such rate change notification from Client.
(11) Provide Client with copies upon request of all notifications,
correspondence, and other records in conjunction with the services
provided hereunder.
(12) Notify COBRA participants of their possible right to an additional
extension of benefits under AB 1401 at 180 days and again at 90 days
prior to exhausting the statutory 18 months COBRA benefit eligibility,
unless otherwise requested in writing by the Client/Plan Sponsor.
C. The Administrative and Clerical functions do not include the amending and
republishing the Client's plan document or booklets.
d. Igoe Administrative Services will provide COBRA Administrative forms for
Client's use. The forms are the sole proprietary property of Igoe
Administrative Services. Said form(s) may only be copied for Client's internal
use ("internal use" includes transferring the forms to Client's employees and
former employees) and may not be communicated to, given to, or otherwise
transferred to any other person, corporation or entity, provided that Client may
disclose such forms where required by law.
e. In order for Igoe Administrative Services to perform under the terms of the
Agreement, Client agrees to be responsible for collection of the data
necessary to enable Igoe Administrative Services to comply with the
provisions of COBRA. Specifically, Client agrees to enter via
CobmConnect or download the PUB COBRA Gualifying event
information to Igoe Administrative Services within 30 days of the qualifying
event, provided that where the qualifying event is divorce, legal separation, or
where a dependent child ceases to be covered as a "dependent" Client agrees
to notify Igoe ft Company within 30 days of the date it is notified of such
event.
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Igoe Administrative Services agrees to comply with ongoing COBRA notice
requirements within fourteen (14) calendar days of receiving a completed PGB
Personnel Action Report.
9. Igoe Administrative Services further agrees to account for collected premiums
by:
(1) Placing collected premiums in an Igoe Administrative Services
premium fund account.
(2) Providing Client with a report on or about the fifteenth (1511) of the
month, following a premium reporting month, which details premiums
billed and collected.
(3) Forwarding to Client, on or about the fifteenth (15') of the month
following a premium reporting month, a check drawn on the Igoe
Administrative Services premium fund account for all net premiums
collected during the preceding premium reporting month. The
premium check shall be reduced by an amount equal to prior month's
fees payable to Igoe Administrative Services. If premiums collected
are not sufficient to pay Igoe Administrative Services fees, Igoe
Administrative Services will detail and bill the excess amount due to
Client.
h. Igoe Administrative Services will report to Client on a monthly basis all new
COBRA enrollees (those who have elected to receive coverage) and all
terminations. It is Client's responsibility to communicate these additions and
terminations to Client's insurer or administrator.
i. Igoe Administrative Services will advise Client of all law or regulation changes
affecting COBRA and will, within thirty (30) days, fully comply.
(1) Client will pay to Igoe Administrative Services administrative fees in
accordance with the COBRA Administrative Services Fee Schedule
which is included in the Administrative Services Agreement for the
given plan year. Client agrees to pay the administrative fees to Igoe
Administrative Services within ten (10) days of receipt of invoice.
Failure to pay fees within thirty (30) days of due date will result in
Igoe Administrative Services suspending all administrative services.
While in a suspension status, all services outlined in section 2(b) will
cease and be held in a pending status until such time payment for
services has been received. If payment is not received thirty (30)
days following the suspension of services, Igoe Administrative
Services will terminate this Agreement with written notice. The Fee
Schedule in effect as of the effective date of this Agreement is set
forth in Exhibit A which is attached to this Agreement and made a
part hereof.
If at any time the client wishes to terminate the COBRA services, a
sixty (60) day written notice must be given to Igoe Administrative
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Services by the Client. Within ten days of termination, and upon
Client's written request, Igoe Administrative Services will provide
Client with a status report of each of the qualified beneficiaries who
were subject to this Agreement, including all details necessary to
transfer responsibility to the new administrator.
(2) Should either party institute legal action to enforce its rights under
this Agreement, the venue shall be in San Diego County, State of
California, and the prevailing party in such action shall be entitled to
recover reasonable attorney's fees and costs.
(3) At any time during the period covered by this Agreement should the
total number of benefit covered employees decrease by 20% or more
from the total number of benefit covered employees at the time such
Agreement was entered, Igoe & Company reserves the right to
require Client to pay all monthly administrative fees, including the
Principal Gualified Beneficiary Fee ("PGB" Fee), as indicated in Exhibit
A, in advance of the performance of work set forth in the contract.
(4) Should Client, at any time during the coverage period of this
Agreement, file in the United States for the Debt Relief or
Reorganization of any type, all services from the date of the filling
forward shall be terminated immediately.
k. Igoe Administrative Services will use reasonable care and due
diligence in the performance of its responsibilities hereunder. Client
agrees that Igoe Administrative Services is not assuming the title and
liabilities of Administrator or Plan Administrator as defined by the
COBRA or ERISA law. Client agrees that this responsibility is, and
remains, that of the Client.
1. Client agrees to accurately complete a COBRA Services Enrollment Form as
supplied by Igoe Administrative Services. Further, Client agrees that this form
will provide the basis of Igoe Administrative Services Administrative actions
under this Agreement. Changes to this form may only be made in writing and
are only effective when acknowledged by Igoe Administrative Services in
writing.
M. Igoe Administrative Services will attend any audit or hearing held by a
government agency or bureau regarding compliance issues directly pertaining
to administration services performed by Igoe Administrative Services during
the term of this Agreement and will provide any and all requested documents
in their possession. This provision will survive the expiration or termination of
this Agreement.
3. Miscellaneous.
a. Applicable Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in
accordance with the laws of the State of California.
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b. Assignability. This Agreement and the rights, benefits, privileges, duties and
responsibilities of the parties hereto may not be assigned by any other party
hereto without the prior written consent of the parties hereto.
C. Availability of Counsel. All parties hereby acknowledge that they have read
this Agreement in its entirety and have, to the extent to which they deem
necessary, consulted with counsel before executing this Agreement.
d. Binding Nature of Agreement. This Agreement is binding upon and shall inure
to the benefit of the heirs, executors, successors and assigns of the parties
hereto.
e. Complete Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the complete Agreement
of the parties regarding its subject matter and replaces and supersedes any
prior written or oral agreement between the parties regarding its subject
matter.
f. Confidentialily: Igoe Administrative Services will maintain the confidentiality
of all records and information obtained in conjunction with the services to be
performed hereunder. The information therein shall not be divulged or
disclosed or made available, to persons, other than Client, without written
approval of the Client or a court of competent jurisdiction. This paragraph will
survive the termination or expiration of the Agreement.
9. Construction and Severabilit . The captions of this Agreement and its
paragraphs and subparagraphs are for the convenience of the parties only and
shall not be taken in account in the construction and interpretation of, this
Agreement. All personal pronouns used in this Agreement, whether used in
the masculine, feminine or neuter gender, shall include all other gender, the
singular may include the plural, and vice versa as the context may require.
The terms of this Agreement are severable; should any portion of this
Agreement be invalid or unenforceable, such invalidity or unenforceability
shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remainder of this
Agreement and this Agreement shall be construed and interpreted as though
such invalid or unenforceable provision was not contained herein.
h. Duplicates. This Agreement is executed in duplicate, each of which shall
constitute an original, but all of which together comprise but a single
Agreement.
i. Independent Contractor: Igoe Administrative Services' relationship with Client
is that of independent contractor and nothing in this Agreement shall be
construed as creating the relationship of employer or employee between
Client and officers, employees, or agents of Igoe Administrative Services or
the relationship of a partnership or joint venture between the parties.
Modifications. This Agreement may not be modified or amended except by
the parties to this agreement by means of written modification or amendment
of this Agreement or their legal successors in interest.
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k. Warranties. No representations or warranties have been provided by any
party to this Agreement or to any other party to this Agreement except as
specifically set forth in this Agreement.
1. Indemnity: Igoe Administrative Services shall indemnify, defend and hold
harmless Client, it's affiliates, directors, officers and employees or any of
them from any claim, expense, loss, damage, settlement, judgment, penalty
and liability, including reasonable attorneys' fees and court costs (individually
and collectively, "Claims") resulting in any way from or arising out of Igoe
Administrative Services' performance of or failure to perform this Agreement,
including, without limitation, Claims resulting from or arising out of acts or
omissions by Igoe Administrative Services, it's employees, officers, directors,
agents, or other individuals who provide services under this Agreement.
Client shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless Igoe Administrative Services,
its affiliates, directors, officers and employees or any of them from any claim,
expense, loss, damage, settlement, judgment, penalty and liability, including
reasonable attorneys' fees and court costs (individually and collectively,
"Claims") resulting in any way from or arising out of Client's performance of or
failure to perform thisAgreement, including, without limitation, Claims
resulting from or arising out of acts or omissions by Client, its employees,
officers, directors, or agents.
4. Business Associate Contract Provisions.
a. Definitions. Terms used, but not otherwise defined, in this section shall have
the same meaning as those terms in 45 CFR § — 160.103 and 164.50 1.
b. Obligations and Activities of Business Associate in accordance with HIPAA
regulations regarding Protected Health Information (PHI) and Electronic
Protected Health Information (EPHO:
(1) Business Associate agrees to not use or further disclose Protected
Health Information other than as permitted or required by the
Agreement or as Required By Law.
(2) Business Associate agrees to use appropriate safeguards to prevent
use or disclosure of the Protected Health Information other than as
I provided for by this Agreement.
(3) Business Associate agrees to mitigate, to the extent practicable, any
harmful effect that is known to Business Associate of a use or
disclosure of Protected Health Information by Business Associate in
violation of the requirements of this Agreement.
(4) Business Associate agrees to report to Covered Entity any use or
disclosure of the Protected Health Information not provided for by this
Agreement of which it becomes aware.
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(5) Business Associate agrees to ensure that any agent, including a
subcontractor, to whom it provides Protected Health Information
received from, or created or received by Business Associate on behalf
of Covered Entity agrees to the same restrictions and conditions that
apply through this Agreement to Business Associate with respect to
such informatiorr.
(6) Business Associate agrees to make internal practices, books, and
records relating to the use and disclosure of Protected Health
Information received from, or created or received by Business
Associate on behalf of Covered Entity available to the Covered Entity,
or at the request of the Covered Entity to the Secretary, in a time and
manner designated by the Covered Entity or the Secretary, for
purposes of the Secretary determining Covered Entity's compliance
with the Privacy Rule.
(7) Business Associate agrees to document such disclosures of Protected
Health Information and information related to such disclosures as
would be required for Covered Entity to respond to a request by an
Individual for an accounting of disclosures of Protected Health
Information in accordance with 45 CFR § 164.528.
8) Business Associate agrees to implement any and all administrative,
technical and physical safeguards necessary to reasonably and
appropriately protect the confidentiality, integrity and availability of
electronic Protected Health Information that it creates, receives,
maintains or transmits on behalf of Covered Entity.
9) Business Associate agrees to ensure that access to Electronic
Protected Health Information related to the Covered Entity is limited to
those workforce members who require such access because of their
role or function.
10) Business Associate agrees to implement safeguards to prevent its
workforce members who are not authorized to have access to such
Electronic Protected Health Information from obtaining access and to
otherwise ensure compliance by its workforce with the Security Rule.
11) Business Associate agrees to ensure that any agent, including a
subcontractor, to whom it provides Electronic Protected Health
Information received from, or created or received by Business
Associate on behalf of, Covered Entity agrees to the same restrictions
and conditions that apply to Business Associate with respect to such
information.
12) Business Associate agrees to report to Covered Entity, in writing, any
security incident of which it becomes aware. Security incident shall
mean successful unauthorized access to, disclosure, modification or
destruction of, or interference with, the Electronic Protected Health
Information by a third party.
13) Upon request from 6vered Entity, Business Associate agrees to
provide information to Covered Entity on unsuccessful unauthorized
access, use, disclosure, modification or destruction of the Electronic
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Protected Health Information to the extent such information is
available to Business Associate.
14) As required by the Security Rule, Business Associate agrees to treat a
material breach of this Agreement as a breach of the Agreement and
to an early termination of the Agreement by Covered Entity.
C. Permitted Uses and Disclosures by Business Associate. Except as otherwise
limited in this Agreement, Business Associate may use or disclose Protected
Health Information to perform functions, activities, or services for, or on behalf
of, Covered Entity as specified in the Administrative Services Agreement,
provided that such use or disclosure would not violate the Privacy Rule if done
by Covered Entity.
d. Obligations of Covered Entily. Plan Sponsor (Client) on behalf of Covered
Entity shall notify Business Associate of any restriction to the use or
disclosure of Protected Health Information that Covered Entity has agreed to
in accordance with 45 CFR 164.522, to the extent that such restriction may
affect Business Associate's use or disclosure of Protected Health Information.
e. Permissible Requests by Covered Entijy. Plan Sponsor (Client) on behalf of
Covered Entity shall not request Business Associate to use or disclose
Protected Health Information in any manner that would not be permissible
under the Privacy Rule if done by Covered Entity.
Term and Termination.
(1) Term. The Term of this Agreement shall be effective upon your
signature, and shall terminate when all of the Protected Health
Information provided by Covered Entity to Business Associate, or
created or received by Business Associate on behalf of Covered
Entity, is destroyed or returned to Covered Entity, or, if it is infeasible
to return or destroy Protected Health Information, protections are ex-
tended to such information, in accordance with the termination
provisions in this Section.
(2) Termination for Cause. Upon Covered Entity's knowledge of a
material breach by Business Associate, Covered Entity shall provide
an opportunity for Business Associate to cure the breach or end the
violation and terminate this Agreement and the Administrative
Services Agreement if Business Associate does not cure the breach
or end the violation within the time specified by Covered Entity, or
immediately terminate this Agreement and the Administrative
Services Agreement sections if Business Associate has breached a
material term of this Agreement and cure is not possible.
(3) Effect of Termination.
Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this section, upon
termination of this Agreement, for any reason, Business
Associate shall return or destroy all Protected Health
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Information received from Covered Entity, or created or
received by Business Associate on behalf of Covered Entity.
This provision shall apply to Protected Health Information
that is in the possession of subcontractors or agents of
Business Associate. Business Associate shall retain no
copies of the Protected Health Information.
(ii) In 'the event that Business Associate determines that
returning or destroying the Protected Health Information is
infeasible, Business Associate shall provide to Covered
Entity notification of the conditions that make return or
destruction infeasible. Upon mutual agreement of the
Parties . that return or destruction of Protected Health
Information is infeasible, Business Associate shall extend
the protections of this Agreement to such Protected Health
Information and limit further uses and disclosures of such
Protected Health Information to those purposes that make
the return or destruction infeasible, for so long as Business
Associate maintains such Protected Health Information.
9. Miscellaneous.
a. Regulatory References. A reference in this Agreement to a section in
the Privacy Rule means the section as -in effect or as amended, and
for which compliance is required.
b. Amendment. The Parties agree to take such action as is necessary to
amend this Agreement from time to time as is necessary for Covered
Entity to comply with the requirements of the Privacy Rule and the
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, Public Law 104-
191.
C. Survival. The respective rights and obligation's of Business ' Associate
under Sections 4(b) and 4(c) of this Agreement shall survive the
termination of this Agreement.
d. Interpretation. Any ambiguity in this Agreement shall be resolved in
favor of a meaning that permits Covered Entity to comply with the
Privacy Rule.
[Signatures Follow on Next Page]
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The parties to this Agreement consent and agree to all of its provisions and by their signature
cause this Agreement to become effective on the date first above written.
Client/ Plan Sponsor (Client) on behalf of Covered Entity:
By:
Name:,
Title: Mayor Mayor Pro-Tem
Company: City of Vernon
Date:
Igoe Administrative Services / Business Associate:
By:
Michael Cf lgo6/
President/CEO
Company: Igoe Administrative Services
Date: January 28, 2009
ATTEST:
By:
Manuela Giron, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Jeff A. Harrison, City
Attorney
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EXHIBIT A - City of Vernon I
COBRA Administration Fees o) Nine (9) Months Fee Guarantee
These fees are only applicable, for CohraConnect or COBRA Download Services
These fees do not apply to Clients with Cal Choice as their insurance carrier. ff you are currently using Cal
Choice as your insurance carrier, or plan to switch to Cal Choice upon renewal, please contact your Account
Manager for an updated fee schedule
Benefit Eligible Employees")
Base Monthly Fee
Per POB Fee
20-200
$50.00
$25.00
201-500
$75.00
$25.00
501-1,000
$100.00
$22.50
1,001 — 1,500
$125.00
$22.50
1,501 — 2,000
$150.00
$20.00
2,001 — 2,500
$175.00
$20.00
2,501 —3,000
$200.00
$17.50
3,001 — 3,500
$225.00
$17.50
-3,501 — 4,000
$250.00
$15.00
4,001 — 6,000
$275.00
$12.50
(1) Igoe Administrative Services will retain a 2% premium fee for each POB and family. Upon initial notification, the "POB Fee" is
charged per qualifying event notice issued. Should Igoe Administrative Services be required to re -issue the qualifying event notice,
one hall (112) the "POB Fee" will be charged.
(2) Download data must be formatted to match our specifications. ff additional work is required in order to complete the download,
additional expenses may apply.
(3) If at any time during the contract period should the total number of benefit eligible employees increase or decrease, fees will be
billed according to the above graded fee schedule.
ADDITIONAL FEES:
RenewaVOpen Enrollment Fees*: One half P12) of the initial PQB Fee per POB and family
These services include entering of new/changed benefits plans and rates; mailing personalized letters to COBRA participants
outlining new/changed benefit plans and rates; generation of new coupons for all re -enrolled participants; and, processing of all
enrollments, changes or terminations.
Fees for Mergers/Acquisitions will be determined based on the time required to complete said service and will be agreed to by
both parties prior to the performance of such services.
*Postage expenses are included in the above fees, however, additional charges may apply for mailing of provider directories.
OPTIONAL SERVICES (These additional services are only provided by request):
Sending of InitiatDOL Notices: $2.50 per Letter
Information Systems Programming/Consultation $90.00 per Hour
If at any time during the plan year, should the total number of benefit covered employees decrease by 20% or more from the
total number of benefit covered employees at the time the Administrative Services Agreement was entered, Igoe Administrative
Services reserves -the right to require Employer to pay all administrative foes, including the Principal Qualified Beneficiary Fee
("PUB" Fee), as indicated in this Exhibit A, in advance of the performance of work set forth in the contract.
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March 5, 2009
Ms. Karina Rueda
City of Vernon
4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, CA 90058
HE: April 1, 2009 COBRA Renewal Administrative Service Agreement
Dear Ms. Rueda:
Your current Administrative Services Agreement expires on March 31, 2009. Igoe Administrative
Services is pleased to provide you with your COBRA Administrative Services Agreement, which will
be guaranteed for nine (9) months, covering the contract period from April 1, 2009 to December 31,
4,
2009. These fees are applicable for CabmConvect (WebModule Service) or COBRA Download
Services only'. We look forward to a continued successful working relationship with you, and, to
ensure this success, we guarantee that our services will be performed accurately and on time. In
order to continue delivering the highest quality of service, we recognize that each party must remain
involved and accountable for their administrative responsibilities. The attached Administrative Service
Agreement outlines our ongoing COBRA Administrative process for your reference.
Please note that the terms of this agreement are non-negotiable, therefore, modifications will not be
permitted. Upon your approval, please print out and sign two copies of the agreement, keep one for
your records and return one f ully-executed copy to our office.
The following COBRA Administrative Services, provided by Igoe Administrative Services, are
included at NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE:
• HIPAA certificates at initial qualifying event as well as at the end of the COBRA period
• Unlimited Toll -Free Telephone Access for all COBRA participants and beneficiaries
• Unlimited on line Access for all COBRA participants and beneficiaries to our CobraConnect web
module, to verify pertinent account information
Lastly, the "PO.B Fee" is charged per COBRA notice issued. There will be no other charges made
irrespective of the number of dependents who make separate elections. In addition, optional services,
I ff at any time during the contract period should the total number of benefit eligible employees increase or decrease, fees
will be billed according to a graded fee schedule (reference Exhibit A Fee Schedule).
2Download data must be formatted to match our specifications. ff additional work is required in order to complete the
download, additional expenses may apply.
15090 Avenue of Science, Suite 201 San Diego, CA 92128
858-673-3670 800-633-8818 Fax No. 858-674-7250 800-975-7296
www.goigoe.com
March 5, 2009
Ms. Karina Rueda
City of Vernon
Page 2
which are available for an additional fee, include sending of Initial DOL Notices, specialized reporting
services and monthly billing auditing.
Again, we appreciate the opportunity to provide continued services to City of Vernon. Should you
have any questions after reviewing the enclosed agreement, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
iCobra -
Account Management Team
Enclosures
cc: Brenda Lee (Gallagher Benefit Services)
31512009
COBRA ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES AGREEMENT
This Agreement made on April 1, 2009, between City of Vernon (hereinafter referred to as
"Client"), with principal offices at 4305 Santa Fe Avenue, City of Vernon, State of California, and Igoe
ft Company Incorporated dba Igoe Administrative Services (hereinafter referred to as "Igoe
Administrative Services" or "Business Associate"), with principal offices at 15090 Avenue of Science,
Suite 201, City of San Diego, State of California.
In consideration of the mutual covenants contained in this Agreement, Client and Igoe
Administrative Services agree as follows:
Client desires to have Igoe Administrative Services provide administrative and clerical
functions related to Client's compliance with Health Care Coverage Continuation under
the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (COBRA), as amended.
2. In consideration for the fees and charges detailed below, Igoe Administrative Services
hereby agrees to perform said administrative and clerical functions subject to the
following terms and conditions:
a. This Agreement shall be for a period of nine (9) months beginning on the date
first above written, subject to Client's right to earlier termination in Section
2j(l ), and Section 4(f). If Client or Igoe Administrative Services does not
desire to renew, the terminating party must give the non -terminating party
written notice sixty (60) days prior to the expiration of this Agreement of their
intent not to renew said Agreement. Further, Igoe Administrative Services
must give notice to Client regarding any change in fees for the additional
period of one (1) year at least sixty (60) days prior to the expiration of this
Agreement.
b. The terms Administrative and Clerical Functions to be performed by Igoe
Administrative Services are defined as:
(1) Sending of notices to qualified beneficiaries (PQBs) as required under
COBRA within the time required by law and with proof of mailing,
including without limitation (a) initial notification of all covered
employees and spouses of their continuation rights; (b) notification of
coverage continuation rights with election form; (c) notification of
conversion rights upon termination of group coverage when
applicable; (d) notification of coverage of continuation rights for
subsequent qualifying events; (e) notification of termination of COBRA
continuation coverage for non-payment of premium or at the end of
any COBRA continuation period; and (f) notice of unavailability of
continuation coverage.
(2) Communicating with PO.Bs regarding COBRA coverage.
(3) Collecting Premiums monthly from each PQB.
(4) Reporting Premiums to Client and remitting premiums each month
received to Client or Client's designee.
31512009
(5) Reporting enrollees to Client (courtesy copy sent to insurance
carriers).
(6) Reporting terminations to Client.
(7) Sending DOL Notices (New Hires Letters), as requested by Client
(additional fee will apply).
(8) Sending HIPAA Certificates (included in notice).
(9) Maintain hard copy or electronic files of all notifications and
correspondence for seven years or longer if required by law.
(10) Communicate new premium rates to each PQB upon open enrollment
after receiving such rate change notification from Client.
0 1) Provide Client with copies upon request of all notifications,
correspondence, and other records in conjunction with the services
provided hereunder.
(12) Notify COBRA participants of their possible right to an additional
extension of benefits under AB1401 at 180 days and again at 90 days
prior to exhausting the statutory 18 months COBRA benefit eligibility,
unless otherwise requested in writing by the Client/Plan Sponsor.
C. The Administrative and Clerical functions do not include the amending and
republishing the Client's plan document or booklets.
d. Igoe Administrative Services will provide COBRA Administrative forms for
Client's use. The forms are the sole proprietary property of Igoe
Administrative Services. Said form(s) may only be copied for Client's internal
use ("internal use" includes transferring the forms to Client's employees and
former employees) and may not be communicated to, given to, or otherwise
transferred to any other person, corporation or entity, provided that Client may
disclose such forms where required by law.
e. In order for Igoe Administrative Services to perform under the terms of the
Agreement, Client agrees to be responsible for collection of the data
necessary to enable Igoe Administrative Services to comply with the
provisions of COBRA. Specifically, Client agrees to enter via
CollamConnect or download the PO.B COBRA Gualifying event
information to Igoe Administrative Services within 30 days of the qualifying
event, provided that where the qualifying event is divorce, legal separation, or
where a dependent child ceases to be covered as a "dependent" Client agrees
to notify Igoe Et Company within 30 days of the date it is notified of such
event.
31512009
Igoe Administrative Services agrees to comply with ongoing COBRA notice
requirements within fourteen (14) calendar days of receiving a completed PQB
Personnel Action Report.
9. Igoe Administrative Services further agrees to account for collected premiums
by:
(1) Placing collected premiums in an Igoe Administrative Services
premium fund account.
(2) Providing Client with a report on or about the fifteenth (15t) of the
month, following a premium reporting month, which details premiums
billed and collected.
(3) Forwarding to Client, on or about the fifteenth (15 1h) of the month
following a premium reporting month, a check drawn on the Igoe
Administrative Services premium fund account for all net premiums
collected during the preceding premium reporting month. The
premium check shall be reduced by an amount equal to prior month's
fees payable to Igoe Administrative Services. If premiums collected
are not sufficient to pay Igoe Administrative Services fees, Igoe
Administrative Services will detail and bill the excess amount due to
Client.
h. Igoe Administrative Services will report to Client on a monthly basis all new
COBRA enrollees (those who have elected to receive coverage) and all
terminations. It is Client's responsibility to communicate these additions and
terminations to Client's insurer or administrator.
Igoe Administrative Services will advise Client of all law or regulation changes
affecting COBRA and will, within thirty (30) days, fully comply.
(1) Client will pay to Igoe Administrative Services administrative fees in
accordance with the COBRA Administrative Services Fee Schedule
which is included in the Administrative Services Agreement for the
given plan year. Client agrees to pay the administrative fees to Igoe
Administrative Services within ten (10) days of receipt of invoice.
Failure to pay fees within thirty (30) days of due date will result in
Igoe Administrative Services suspending all administrative services.
While in a suspension status, all services outlined in section 2(b) will
cease and be held in a pending status until such time payment for
services has been received. If payment is not received thirty (30)
days following the suspension of services, Igoe Administrative
Services will terminate this Agreement with written notice. The Fee
Schedule in effect as of the effective date of this Agreement is set
forth in Exhibit A which is attached to this Agreement and made a
part hereof.
If at any time the client wishes to terminate the COBRA services, a
sixty (60) day written notice must be given to Igoe Administrative
31512009
Services by the Client. Within ten days of termination, and upon
Client's written request, Igoe Administrative Services will provide
Client with a status report of each of the qualified beneficiaries who
were subject to this Agreement, including all details necessary to
transfer responsibility to the new administrator.
(2) Should either party institute legal action to enforce its rights under
this Agreement, the venue shall be in San Diego County, State of
California, and the prevailing party in such action shall be entitled to
recover reasonable attorney's fees and costs.
(3) At any time during the period covered by this Agreement should the
total number of benefit covered employees decrease by 20% or more
from the total number of benefit covered employees at the time such
Agreement was entered, Igoe Et Company reserves the right to
require Client to pay all monthly administrative fees, including the
Principal Qualified Beneficiary Fee ("POB" Fee), as indicated in Exhibit
A, in advance of the performance of work set forth in the contract.
(4) Should Client, at any time during the coverage period of this
Agreement, file in the United States for the Debt Relief or
Reorganization of any type, all services from the date of the filling
forward shall be terminated immediately.
k. Igoe Administrative Services will use reasonable care and due
diligence in the performance of its responsibilities hereunder. Client
agrees that Igoe Administrative Services is not assuming the title and
liabilities of Administrator or Plan Administrator as defined by the
COBRA or ERISA law. Client agrees that this responsibility is, and
remains, that of the Client.
Client agrees to accurately complete a COBRA Services Enrollment Form as
supplied by Igoe Administrative Services. Further, Client agrees that this form
will provide the basis of Igoe Administrative Services Administrative actions
under this Agreement. Changes to this form may only be made in writing and
are only effective when acknowledged by Igoe Administrative Services in
writing.
M. Igoe Administrative Services will attend any audit or hearing held by a
government agency or bureau regarding compliance issues directly pertaining
to administration services performed by Igoe Administrative Services during
the term of this Agreement and will provide any and all requested documents
in their possession. This provision will survive the expiration or termination of
this Agreement.
3. Miscellaneous.
a. Applicable Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in
accordance with the laws of the State of California.
31512009
b. Assignability. This Agreement and the rights, benefits, privileges, duties and
responsibilities of the parties hereto may not be assigned by any other party
hereto without the prior written consent of the parties hereto.
C. Availability of Counsel. All parties hereby acknowledge that they have read
this Agreement in its entirety and have, to the extent to which they deem
necessary, consulted with counsel before executing this Agreement.
d. Binding Nature of Agreement. This Agreement is binding upon and shall inure
to the benefit of the heirs, executors, successors and assigns of the parties
hereto.
e. Complete Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the complete Agreement
of the parties regarding its subject matter and replaces and supersedes any
prior written or oral agreement between the parties regarding its subject
matter.
f. Confidentiality: Igoe Administrative Services will maintain the confidentiality
of all records and information obtained in conjunction with the services to be
performed hereunder. The information therein shall not be divulged or
disclosed or made available to persons, other than Client, without written
approval of the Client or a court of competent jurisdiction. This paragraph will
survive the termination or expiration of the Agreement.
9. Construction and Severability. The captions of this Agreement and its
paragraphs and subparagraphs are for the convenience of the parties only and
shall not be taken in account in the construction and interpretation of this
Agreement. All personal pronouns used in this Agreement, whether used in
the masculine, feminine or neuter gender, shall include all other gender, the
singular may include the plural, and vice versa as the context may require.
The terms of this Agreement are severable; should any portion of this
Agreement be invalid or unenforceable, such invalidity or unenforceability
shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remainder of this
Agreement and this Agreement shall be construed and interpreted as though
such invalid or unenforceable provision was not contained herein.
h. Duplicates. This Agreement is executed in duplicate, each of which shall
constitute an original, but all of which together comprise but a single
Agreement.
i. Independent Contractor: Igoe Administrative Services' relationship with Client
is that of independent contractor and nothing in this Agreement shall be
construed as creating the relationship of employer or employee between
Client and officers, employees, or agents of Igoe Administrative Services or
the relationship of a partnership or joint venture between the parties.
j. Modifications. This Agreement may not be modified or amended except by
the parties to this agreement by means of written modification or amendment
of this Agreement or their legal successors in interest.
31512009
k. Warranties. No representations or warranties have been provided by any
party to this Agreement or to any other party to this Agreement except as
specifically set forth in this Agreement.
Indemnity: Igoe Administrative Services shall indemnify, defend and hold
harmless Client, it's affiliates, directors, officers and employees or any of
them from any claim, expense, loss, damage, settlement, judgment, penalty
and liability, including reasonable attorneys' fees and court costs (individually
and collectively, "Claims") resulting in any way from or arising out of Igoe
Administrative Services' performance of or failure to perform this Agreement,
including, without limitation, Claims resulting from or arising out of acts or
omissions by Igoe Administrative Services, it's employees, officers, directors,
agents, or other individuals who provide services under this Agreement.
Client shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless Igoe Administrative Services,
its affiliates, directors, officers and employees or any of them from any claim,
expense, loss, damage, settlement, judgment, penalty and liability, including
reasonable attorneys' fees and court costs (individually and collectively,
"Claims") resulting in any way from or arising out of Client's performance of or
failure to perform this Agreement, including, without limitation, Claims
resulting from or arising out of acts or omissions by Client, its employees,
officers, directors, or agents.
4. Business Associate Contract Provisions.
a. Definitions. Terms used, but not otherwise defined, in this section shall have
the same meaning as those terms in 45 CFR §— 160.103 and 164.501.
b. Obligations and Activities of Business Associate in accordance with HIPAA
regulations reQarding Protected Health Information (PHI) and Electronic
Protected Health Information (EPHO:
(1) Business Associate agrees to not use or further disclose Protected
Health Information other than as permitted or required by the
Agreement or as Required By Law,
(2) Business Associate agrees to use appropriate safeguards to prevent
use or disclosure of the Protected Health Information other than as
provided for by this Agreement.
(3) Business Associate agrees to mitigate, to the extent practicable, any
harmful effect that is known to Business Associate of a use or
disclosure of Protected Health Information by Business Associate in
violation of the requirements of this Agreement.
(4) Business Associate agrees to report to Covered Entity any use or
disclosure of the Protected Health Information not provided for by this
Agreement of which it becomes aware.
31512009
(5) Business Associate agrees to ensure that any agent, including a
subcontractor, to whom it provides Protected Health Information
received from, or created or received by Business Associate on behalf
of Covered Entity agrees to the same restrictions and conditions that
apply through this Agreement to Business Associate with respect to
such information.
(6) Business Associate agrees to make internal practices, books, and
records relating to the use and disclosure of Protected Health
Information received from, or created or received by Business
Associate on behalf of Covered Entity available to the Covered Entity,
or at the request of the Covered Entity to the Secretary, in a time and
manner designated by the Covered Entity or the Secretary, for
purposes of the Secretary determining Covered Entity's compliance
with the Privacy Rule.
(7) Business Associate agrees to document such disclosures of Protected
Health Information and information related to such disclosures as
would be required for Covered Entity to respond to a request by an
Individual for an accounting of disclosures of Protected Health
Information in accordance with 45 CFR § 164.528.
8) Business Associate agrees to implement any and all administrative,
technical and physical safeguards necessary to reasonably and
appropriately protect the confidentiality, integrity and availability of
electronic Protected Health Information that it creates, receives,
maintains or transmits on behalf of Covered Entity.
9) Business Associate agrees to ensure that access to Electronic
Protected Health Information related to the Covered Entity is limited to
those workforce members who require such access because of their
role or function.
10) Business Associate agrees to implement safeguards to prevent its
workforce members who are not authorized to have access to such
Electronic Protected Health Information from obtaining access and to
otherwise ensure compliance by its workforce with the Security Rule.
11) Business Associate agrees to ensure that any agent, including a
subcontractor, to whom it provides Electronic Protected Health
Information received from, or created or received by Business
Associate on behalf of, Covered Entity agrees to the same restrictions
and conditions that apply to Business Associate with respect to such
information.
12) Business Associate agrees to report to Covered Entity, in writing, any
security incident of which it becomes aware. Security incident shall
mean successful unauthorized access to, disclosure, modification or
destruction of, or interference with, the Electronic Protected Health
Information by a third party.
13) Upon request from Covered Entity, Business Associate agrees to
provide information to Covered Entity on unsuccessful unauthorized
access, use, disclosure, modification or destruction of the Electronic
31512009
Protected Health Information to the extent such information is
available to Business Associate.
14) As required by the Security Rule, Business Associate agrees to treat a
material breach of this Agreement as a breach of the Agreement and
to an early termination of the Agreement by Covered Entity.
C. Permitted Uses and Disclosures by Business Associate. Except as otherwise
limited in this Agreement, Business Associate may use or disclose Protected
Health Information to perform functions, activities, or services for, or on behalf
of, Covered Entity as specified in the Administrative Services Agreement,
provided that such use or disclosure would not violate the Privacy Rule if done
by Covered Entity.
d. Obligations of Covered Entity. Plan Sponsor (Client) on behalf of Covered
Entity shall notify Business Associate of any restriction to the use or
disclosure of Protected Health Information that Covered Entity has agreed to
in accordance with 45 CFR 164.522, to the extent that such restriction may
affect Business Associate's use or disclosure of Protected Health Information.
e. Permissible Reguests by Covered Entity. Plan Sponsor (Client) on behalf of
Covered Entity shall not request Business Associate to use or disclose
Protected Health Information in any manner that would not be permissible
under the Privacy Rule if done by Covered Entity.
Term and Termination.
(1) Term, The Term of this Agreement shall be effective upon your
signature, and shall terminate when all of the Protected Health
Information provided by Covered Entity to Business Associate, or
created or received by Business Associate on behalf of Covered
Entity, is destroyed or returned to Covered Entity, or, if it is infeasible
to return or destroy Protected Health Information, protections are ex-
tended to such information, in accordance with the termination
provisions in this Section.
(2) Termination for Cause. Upon Covered Entity's knowledge of a
material breach by Business Associate, Covered Entity shall provide
an opportunity for Business Associate to cure the breach or end the
violation and terminate this Agreement and the Administrative
Services Agreement if Business Associate does not cure the breach
or end the violation within the time specified by Covered Entity, or
immediately terminate this Agreement and the Administrative
Services Agreement sections if Business Associate has breached a
material term of this Agreement and cure is not possible.
(3) Effect of Termination.
(i) Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this section, upon
termination of this Agreement, for any reason, Business
Associate shall return or destroy all Protected Health
31512009
Information received from Covered Entity, or created or
received by Business Associate on behalf of Covered Entity.
This provision shall apply to Protected Health Information
that is in the possession of subcontractors or agents of
Business Associate. Business Associate shall retain no
copies of the Protected Health Information.
(ii) In the event that Business Associate determines that
returning or destroying the Protected Health Information is
infeasible, Business Associate shall provide to Covered
Entity notification of the conditions that make return or
destruction infeasible. Upon mutual agreement of the
Parties that return or destruction of Protected Health
Information is infeasible, Business Associate shall extend
the protections of this Agreement to such Protected Health
Information and limit further uses and disclosures of such
Protected Health Information to those purposes that make
the return or destruction infeasible, for so long as Business
Associate maintains such Protected Health Information.
9. Miscellaneous.
a. Regulatory References. A reference in this Agreement to a section in
the Privacy Rule means the section as in effect or as amended, and
for which compliance is required.
b. Amendment. The Parties agree to take such action as is necessary to
amend this Agreement from time to time as is necessary for Covered
Entity to comply with the requirements of the Privacy Rule and the
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, Public Law 104-
191.
C. Survival. The respective rights and obligations of Business Associate
under Sections 4(b) and 4(c) of this Agreement shall survive the
termination of this Agreement.
d. Interpretation. Any ambiguity in this Agreement shall be resolved in
favor of a meaning that permits Covered Entity to comply with the
Privacy Rule.
[Signatures Follow on Next Page]
31512009
The parties to this Agreement consent and agree to all of its provisions and by their signature
cause this Agreement to become effective on the date first above written.
Client/ Plan Sponsor (Client) on behalf of Covered Entity:
By:
Name: Leonis C. Malburg
Title: Mayor / meyu��
Company: City of Vernon
Date: March 9, 2009
Igoe Administrative Services / Business Associate:
Company: Igoe Administrative Services
Date: March 5, 2009
ATTI, T-,
By:
i'Ma-nuela Girofi7,/City Clerk
A6;4f,TO FORM:
Harrison, City
�fo #e y
31512009
EXHIBIT A
EXHIBIT A - City of Vernon
COBRA Administration Fees a) Nine (9) Months Fee Guarantee
12)
These fees are only applicable for CobraCmatect or COBRA Download Services
These fees do not apply to Clients with Cal Choice as their insurance carrier. ff you are currently using Cal
Choice as your insurance carrier, or plan to switch to Cal Choice upon renewal, please contact your Account
Manager for an updated fee schedule
Benefit Eligible Employees()
Base Monthly Fee
Per PQB Fee
20-200
$50.00
$25.00
201-500
$75.00
$25.00
501-1,000
$100.00
$22.50
1,001 — 1,500
$125.00
$22.50
1,501 —2,000
$150.00
$20.00
2,001 —2,500
$175.00
$20.00
2,501 —3,000
$200.00
$17.50
3,001 —3,500
$225.00
$17.50
3,501 —4,000
$250.00
$15.00
4,001 —6,000
$275.00
$12.50
(1) Igoe Administrative Services will retain a 2% premium fee for each POB and family. Upon initial notification, the "PQB Fee" is
charged per qualifying event notice issued. Should Igoe Administrative Services be required to re -issue the qualifying event notice,
one half (112) the "POB Fee" will be charged.
(2) Download data must be formatted to match our specifications. If additional work is required in order to complete the download,
additional expenses may apply,
(3) ff at any time during the contract period should the total number of benefit eligible employees increase or decrease, fees will be
billed according to the above graded fee schedule.
ADDITIONAL FEES:
Renewal/Open Enrollment Fees*: One half (112) of the initial PQB Fee per PQB and family
These services include entering of new/changed benefits plans and rates; mailing personalized letters to COBRA participants
outlining new/changed benefit plans and rates; generation of new coupons for all re -enrolled participants; and, processing of all
enrollments, changes or terminations.
Fees for Mergers/Acquisitions will be determined based on the time required to complete said service and will be agreed to by
both parties prior to the performance of such services.
*Postage expenses are included in the above fees, however, additional charges may apply for mailing of provider directories.
OPTIONAL SERVICES (These additional services are only provided by request):
Sending of Initial DOL Notices: $2.50 per Letter
Information Systems Program ming/Consultation $90. 00 per Hour
If at any time during the plan year, should the total number of benefit covered employees decrease by 20% or more from the
total number of benefit covered employees at the time the Administrative Services Agreement was entered, Igoe Administrative
Services reserves the right to require Employer to pay all administrative fees, including the Principal Qualified Beneficiary Fee
("PUB" Fee), as indicated in this Exhibit A, in advance of the performance of work set forth in the contract.
31512009
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
RE:
MEMOtaKh '69 CITY COUNCIL
Risk Management 57Y6
�ERIMB
el 2
ION
Jeff Harrison, City Attorney
Willard 0. Yamaguchi, Risk Manager
February 18,2009 �
COBRA Administrative Services Agreement
Igoe & Company Incorporated, dba Igoe Administrative Services
it is hereby recommended that the City approve the renewal of the COBRA Services Agreement with
Igoe & Company Incorporated, dba Igoe Administrative Services for the plan year beginning April 1,
2009 and ending December 31, 2009.
The fees remain the same as last year and consist of a $75.00 monthly administration fee, with a total
yearlycost. of approximately $675.00 plus additional services as requested.
WGY/kr
cc: Judy Lehr
A11MINISTRATIVE SERVICES
January 28, 2009
Ms. Kadna Rueda
City of Vernon
4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, CA 90058
RE: April 1, 2009 COBRA Renewal Administrative Service Agreement
Dear Ms. Rueda:
Your current Administrative Services Agreement expires on March 31, 2009. Igoe Administrative
Services is pleased to provide you with your COBRA Administrative Services Agreement, which will
be guaranteed for nine J9) months, covering the contract period from April 1, 2009 to December 31,
2009. These fees are applicable for 6o'�bncirowwct ffebModule Service) or COBRA Download
Services only'. We look forward to a continued successful working relationship with you, and, to
ensure this success, we guarantee that our services will be performed accurately and on time. In
order to continue delivering the highest quality of service, we recognize that each party must remain
involved and accountable for their administrative responsibilities. The attached Administrative Service
Agreement outlines our ongoing COBRA Administrative process for your reference.
Please note that the terms of this agreement are non-negotiable, therefore, modifications will not be
permitted. Upon your approval, please print out and sign two copies of the agreement, keep one for
your records and return one fully -executed copy to our office.
The following COBRA Administrative Services, provided by Igoe Administrative Services, are
included at NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE:
• HIPAA certificates at initial qualifying event as well as at the end of the COBRA period
• Unlimited Toll -Free Telephone Access for all COBRA participants and beneficiaries
• Unlimited on line Access for all COBRA participants and beneficiaries to our CobraConnect web
module, to verify pertinent account information
Lastly, the "P(IB Fee" is charged per COBRA notice issued. There will be no other charges made
irrespective of the number of dependents who make separate elections. In addition, optional services,
'If at any time during the contract period should the total number of beneffi eligible employees increase or decrease, few
will be billed according to a graded fee schedule (reference Fxhibit A. Fee Schedule).
2Download data must be fannatted to match our specificadons. If additional work is required in order to complete the
dbwnlbad, addNonal expenses may apply.
15090 Avenue of Science. Suite 201 San Diego, CA 92128
858-673-3670 80D-633-8818 Fax No. 8%674-7250 SOD-975-7296
www.aigae.com
'January 28, 2009
Ms. Karina Rueda
City of Vernon
Page 2
which are available for an additional fee, include sending of Initial DOL Notices, specialized reporting
services and monthly billing auditing.
Again, we appreciate the opportunity to provide continued services to City of Vemon. Should you
have any questions after reviewing the enclosed agreement, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
iCobra Account Management Team
Enclosures
cc: Brenda Lee (Gallagher Benefit Services)
112812009
COBRA ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES AGREEMENT
This Agreement made on April 1. 2009, between City of Vernon (hereinafter referred to as
"Client"), with principal offices at 4305 Santa Fe Avenue, City of Vernon, State of California, and Igoe
ft Company Incorporated dba Igoe Administrative Services (hereinafter referred to as "Igoe
Administrative Services" or "Business Associate), with principal offices at 15090 Avenue of Science,
Suite 201, City of San Diego, State of California.
In consideration of the mutual covenants contained in this Agreement, Client and Igoe
Administrative Services agree as follows:
Client desires to have Igoe Administrative Services provide administrative and clerical
functions related to Clienfs compliance with Health Care Coverage Continuation under
the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (COBRA), as amended.
2. In consideration for the fees and charges detailed below, Igoe Administrative Services
hereby agrees to perform said administrative and clerical functions subject to the
following terms and conditions:
a. This Agreement shall be for a period of nine 19) months beginning on the date
first above written, subject to ClierWs right to earlier termination in Section
2j(1), and Section 4(f). If Client or Igoe Administrative Services does not
desire to renew, the ten-ninating party must give the non -terminating party
written notice sixty (60) days prior to the expiration of this Agreement of their
intent not to renew said Agreement. Further, Igoe Administrative Services
must give notice to Client regarding any change in fees for the additional
period of one (1) year at least sixty (60) days prior to the expiration of this
Agreement.
b. The terms Administrative and Clerical Functions to be performed by Igoe
Administrative Services are defined as:
(1) Sending of notices to qualified beneficiaries (PQ.Bs) as required under
COBRA Within the time required by law and with proof of mailing,
including without limitation (a) initial notification of all covered
employees and spouses of their continuation fights; (b) notification of
coverage continuation fights with election form; (c) notification of
conversion rights upon termination of group coverage when
applicable; (d) notification of coverage of continuation fights for
subsequent qualifying events; (e) notification of termination of COBRA
continuation coverage for non-payment of premium or at the end of
any COBRA continuation period; and (f) notice of unavailability of
continuation coverage.
(2) Communicating with POBs regarding COBRA coverage.
(3) Collecting Premiums monthly from each PQB-
(4) Reporting Premiums to Client and remitting premiums each month
received to Client or Clients designee.
112812009
(5) Reporting enrollees to Client (courtesy copy sent to insurance
carriers).
(6) Reporting terminations to Client.
(7) Sending DOL Notices (New Hires Letters), as requested by Client
(additional fee will apply).
(8) Sending HIPAA Certificates (included in notice).
(9) Maintain hard copy or electronic files of all notifications and
correspondence for seven years or longer if required by law.
(10) Communicate new premium rates to each P(1B upon open enrollment
after receiving such rate change notification from Client.
1) Provide Client with copies upon request of all notifications,
correspondence, and other records in conjunction with the services
provided hereunder.
(12) Notify COBRA participants of their possible right to an additional
extension of benefits under AB1401 at 180 days and again at 90 days
prior to exhausting the statutory 18 months COBRA benefit eligibility,
unless otherwise requested in writing by the Client/Plan Sponsor.
C. The Administrative and Clerical functions do not include the amending and
republishing the ClienVs plan document or booklets.
d. Igoe Administrative Services will provide COBRA Administrative forms for
Client's use. The forms are the sole proprietary property of Igoe
Administrative Services. Said form(s) may only be copied for Client's internal
use ("internal use" includes transferring the forms to Client's employees and
former employees) and may not be communicated to, given to, or otherwise
transferred to any other person, corporation or entity, provided that Client may
disclose such forms where required by law.
e. In order for Igoe Administrative Services to perform under the terms of the
Agreement, Client agrees to be responsible for collection of the data
necessary to enable Igoe Administrative Services to comply with the
provisions of COBRA. Specifically, Client agrees to enter via
CobraConnect or download the PQB COBRA Qualifying event
information to Igoe Administrative Services within 30 days of the qualifying
event, provided that where the qualifying event is divorce, legal separation, or
where a dependent child ceases to be covered as a "dependent" Client agrees
to notify Igoe Et Company within 30 days of the date it is notified of such
event.
-112812009
Igoe Administrative Services agrees to comply with ongoing COBRA notice
requirements within fourteen (14) calendar days of receiving a completed PQ.B
Personnel Action Report.
9. Igoe Administrative Services further agrees to account for collected premiums
by:
(1) Placing collected premiums in an Igoe Administrative Services
premium fund account.
(2) Providing Client with a report on or about the fifteenth (15) of the
month, following a premium reporting month, which details premiums
billed and collected.
(3) Forwarding to Client, on or about the fifteenth (15') of the month
following a premium reporting month, a check drawn an the Igoe
Administrative Services premium fund account for all net premiums
collected during the preceding premium reporting month. The
premium check shall be reduced by an amount equal to prior month's
fees payable to Igoe Administrative Services. If premiums collected
are not sufficient to pay Igoe Administrative Services fees, Igoe
Administrative Services will detail and bill the excess amount due to
Client.
11. Igoe Administrative Services will report to Client on a monthly basis all new
COBRA enrollees (those who have elected to receive coverage) and all
terminations. It is Client's responsibility to communicate these additions and
terminations to Client's insurer or administrator.
L Igoe Administrative Services will advise Client of all law or regulation changes
affecting COBRA and will, within thirty (30) days, fully comply.
j. (1) Client will pay to Igoe Administrative Services administrative fees in
accordance with the COBRA Administrative Services Fee Schedule
which is included in the Administrative Services Agreement for the
given plan year. Client agrees to pay the administrative fees to Igoe
Administrative Services within ten (10) days of receipt of invoice.
Failure to pay fees within thirty (30) days of due date will result in
Igoe Administrative Services suspending all administrative services.
While in a suspension status, all services outlined in section 2(b) will
cease and be held in a pending status until such time payment'for
services has been received. If payment is not received thirty (30)
days following the suspension of services, Igoe Administrative
Services will terminate this Agreement with written notice. The Fee
Schedule in effect as of the effective date of this Agreement is set
forth in Exhibit A which is attached to this Agreement and made a
part hereof.
If at any time the client wishes to terminate the COBRA services, a
sixty (60) day written notice must be given to Igoe Administrative
112812009
Services by the Client. Within ten days of termination, and upon
Client's written request, Igoe Administrative Services will provide
Client with a status report of each of the qualified beneficiaries who
were subject to this Agreement, including all details necessary to
transfer responsibility to the new administrator.
(2) Should either party institute legal action to enforce its fights under
this Agreement, the venue shall be in San Diego County, State of
California, and the prevailing party in such action shall be entitled to
recover reasonable attorney's fees and costs.
(3) At any time during the period covered by this Agreement should the
total number of benefit covered employees decrease by 20% or more
from the total number of benefit covered employees at the time such
Agreement was entered, Igoe Et Company reserves the right to
require Client to pay all monthly administrative fees, including the
Principal Qualified Beneficiary Fee ("PUB' Fee), as indicated in Exhibit
A, in advance of the performance of work set forth in the contract.
(4) Should Client, at any time during the coverage period of this
Agreement, file in the United States for the Debt Relief or
Reorganization of any type, all services from the date of the filling
forward shall be terminated immediately.
k. Igoe Administrative Services Will use reasonable care and due
diligence in the performance of its responsibilities hereunder. Client
agrees that Igoe Administrative Services is not assuming the title and
liabilities of Administrator or Plan Administrator as defined by the
COBRA or ERISA law. Client agrees that this responsibility is, and
remains, that of the Client.
1. Client agrees to accurately complete a COBRA Services Enrollment Form as
supplied by Igoe Administrative Services. Further, Client agrees that this form
will provide the basis of Igoe Administrative Services Administrative actions
under this Agreement Changes to this form may only be made in writing and
are only effective when acknowledged by Igoe Administrative Services in
writing.
M. Igoe Administrative Services Will attend any audit or headng held by a
government agency or bureau regarding compliance issues directly pertaining
to administration services performed by Igoe Administrative Services during
the term of this Agreement and will provide any and all requested documents
in their possession. This provision will survive the expiration or termination of
this Agreement.
3. Miscellaneous.
a. Applicable Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in
accordance with the laws of the State of Califomia.
112812009
b. Assignability. This Agreement and the fights, benefits, privileges, duties and
responsibilities of the parties hereto may not be assigned by any other party
hereto without the prior written consent of the parties hereto.
C. Availability of Counsel. All parties hereby acknowledge that they have read
this Agreement in its entirety and have, to the extent to which they deem
necessary, consulted with counsel before executing this Agreement.
d. Binding Nature of Agreement. This Agreement is binding upon and shall inure
to the benefit of the heirs, executors, successors and assigns of the parties
hereto.
e. Complete Agreeme This Agreement constitutes the com I plete Agreement
of the parties regarding its subject matter and replaces and supersedes any
prior written or oral agreement between the parties regarding Us subject
matter.
f. ConfidentialiDi: Igoe Administrative Services will maintain the confidentiality
of all records and information obtained in conjunction with the services to be
performed hereunder. The information therein shall not be divulged or
disclosed or made available to persons, other than Client, without written
approval of the Client or a court of competent jurisdiction. This paragraph will
survive the termination or expiration of the Agreement
9. Construction and Severaft. The captions of this Agreement and its
paragraphs and subparagraphs are for the convenience of the parties only and
shall not be taken in account in the construction and interpretation of this
Agreement. All personal pronouns used in this Agreement, whether used in
the masculine, feminine or neuter gender, shall include all other gender, the
singular may include the plural, and vice versa as the context may require.
The terms of this Agreement are severable; should any portion of this
Agreement be invalid or unenforceable, such invalidity or unenforceability
shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remainder of this
Agreement and this Agreement shall be construed and interpreted as though
such invalid or unenforceable provision was not contained herein.
h. Duplicates This Agreement is executed in duplicate, each of which shall
constitute an original, but all of which together comprise but a single
Agreement.
i. Independent Contractor. Igoe Administrative Services' relationship with Client
is that of independent contractor and nothing in this Agreement shall be
construed as creating the relationship of employer or employee between
Client and officers, employees, or agents of Igoe Administrative Services or
the relationship of a partnership or joint venture between the parties.
Modifications. This Agreement may not be modified or amended except by
the parties to this agreement by means of written modification or amendment
of this Agreement or their legal successors in interest.
112812009
4.
k. Warranties. No representations or warranties have been provided by any
party to this Agreement or to any other party to this Agreement except as
specifically set forth in this Agreement.
lndemnfty: Igoe Administrative Services shall indemnify, defend and hold
harmless Client, it's affiliates, directors, officers and employees or any of
them from any claim, expense, loss, damage, settlement, judgment, penalty
and liability, including reasonable attomeys'fees and court costs (individually
and collectively, "Claims") resulting in any way from or arising out of Igoe
Administrative Services" performance of or failure to perform this Agreement,
including, without limitation, Claims resulting from or arising out of acts or
omissions by Igoe Administrative Services, it's employees, officers, directors,
agents, or other individuals who provide services under this Agreement.
Client shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless Igoe Administrative Services,
its affiliates, directors, officers and employees or any of them from any claim,
expense, loss, damage, settlement, judgment, penalty and liability, including
reasonable attorneys' fees and court costs (individually and collectively,
"Claims") resulting in any way from or arising out of Clienfs performance of or
failure to perform this Agreement, including, without limitation, Claims
resulting from or arising out of acts or omissions by Client, its employees,
officers, directors, or agents.
Business Associate Contract Provisions
a. Definitions. Terms used, but not otherwise defined, in this section shall have
the same meaning as those terms in 45 CFR §— 160.103 and 164.501.
b. Obligations and Activities of Business Associate in accordance with HIPAA
regulations regarding Protected Health Information (PHI) and Electronic
Protected Health Information (EPHO:
(1) Business Associate agrees to not use or further disclose Protected
Health Information other than as permitted or required by the
Agreement or as Required By Law.
(2) Business Associate agrees to use appropriate safeguards to prevent
use or disclosure of the Protected Health Information other than as
provided for by this Agreement.
(3) Business Associate agrees to mitigate, to the extent practicable, any
harmful effect that is known to Business Assoeiate of a use or
disclosure of Protected Health Information by Business Associate in
violation of the requirements of this Agreement.
(4) Business Associate agrees to report to Covered Entity any use or
disclosure of the Protected Health Information not provided for by this
Agreement of which it becomes aware.
112812009
15) Business Associate agrees to ensure that any agent, including a
subcontractor, to whom it provides Protected Health Information
received from, or created or received by Business Associate on behalf
of Covered Entity agrees to the same restrictions and conditions that
apply through this Agreement to Business Associate with respect to
such information.
(6) Business Associate agrees to make internal practices, books, and
records relating to the use and disclosure of Protected Health
Information received from, or created or received by Business
Associate on behalf of Covered Entity available to the Covered Entity,
or at the request of the Covered Entity to the Secretary, in a time and
manner designated by the Covered Entity or the Secretary, for
purposes of the Secretary determining Covered Entity's compliance
with the Privacy Rule.
(7) Business Associate agrees to document such disclosures of Protected
Health Information and information related to such disclosures as
would be required for Covered Entity to respond to a request by an
Individual for an accounting of disclosures of Protected Health
Information in accordance with 45 CFH § 164.528.
8) Business Associate agrees to implement any and all administrative,
technical and physical safeguards necessary to reasonably and
appropriately protect the confidentiality, integrity and availability of
electronic Protected Health Information that it creates, receives,
maintains or transmits on behalf of Covered Entity.
9) Business Associate agrees to ensure that access to Electronic
Protected Health Information related to the Covered Entity is limited to
those workforce members who require such access because of their
role or function.
10) Business Associate agrees to implement safeguards to prevent its
workforce members who are not authorized to have access to such
Electronic Protected Health Information from obtaining access and to
otherwise ensure compliance by its workforce with the Security Rule.
11) Business Associate agrees to ensure that any agent, including a
subcontractor, to whom it provides Electronic Protected Health
Information received from, or created or received by Business
Associate on behalf of, Covered Entity agrees to the same restrictions
and conditions that apply to Business Associate with respect to such
information.
12) Business Associate agrees to report to Covered Entity, in writing, any
security incident of which it becomes aware. Security incident shall
mean successful unauthorized access to, disclosure, modification or
destruction of, or interference with, the Electronic Protected Heafth
Information by a third party.
13) Upon request from Covered Entity, Business Associate agrees to
provide information to Covered Entity on unsuccessful unauthorized
access, use, disclosure, modification or destruction of the Electronic
112812009
Protected Health Information to the extent such information is
available to Business Associate.
14) As required by the Security Rule, Business Associate agrees to treat a
material breach of this Agreement as a breach of the Agreement and
to an early termination of the Agreement by Covered Entity.
C. Permitted Uses and Disclosures by Business Associate. Except as otherwise
limited in this Agreement, Business Associate may use or disclose Protected
Health Information to perform functions, activities, or services for, or on behalf
of, Covered Entity as specified in the Administrative Services Agreement,
provided that such use or disclosure would not violate the Privacy Rule if done
by Covered Entity.
d. Obligations of Covered Entity. Plan Sponsor (Client) on behalf of Covered
Entity shall notify Business Associate of any restriction to the use or
disclosure of Protected Health Information that Covered Entity has agreed to
in accordance with 45 CFR 164.522, to the extent that such restriction may
affect Business Associate's use or disclosure of Protected Health Information.
e. Permissible Requests by Covered Entity. Plan Sponsor (Client) on behalf of
Covered Entity shall not request Business Associate to use or disclose
Protected Health Information in any manner that would not be permissible
under the Privacy Rule if done by Covered Entity.
Term and Termination.
(1) Term. The Term of this Agreement shall be effective upon your
signature, and shall terminate when all of the Protected Health
Information provided by Covered Entity to Business Associate, or
created or received by Business Associate on behalf of Covered
Entity, is destroyed or returned to Covered Entity, or, if it is infeasible
to return or destroy Protected Health Information, protections are ex-
tended to such information, in accordance with the termination
provisions in this Section.
(2) Termination for Cause. Upon Covered Entity's knowledge of a
material breach by Business Associate, Covered Entity shall provide
an opportunity for Business Associate to cure the breach or end the
violation and terminate this Agreement and the Administrative
Services Agreement if Business Associate does not cure the breach
or end the violation within the time specified by Covered Entity, or
immediately terminate this Agreement and the Administrative
Services Agreement sections if Business Associate has breached a
material term of this Agreement and cure is not possible.
(3) Effect of Termination.
Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this section, upon
termination of this Agreement, for any reason, Business
Associate shall return or destroy all Protected Health
112812009
Information received from Covered Entity, or created or
received by Business Associate on behalf of Covered Entity.
This provision shall apply to Protected Health Information
that is in the possession of subcontractors or agents of
Business Associate. Business Associate shall retain no
copies of the Protected Health Information.
(ii) In the event that Business Associate determines that
returning or destroying the Protected Health Information is
infeasible, Business Associate shall provide to Covered
Entity notification of the conditions that make return or
destruction infeasible. Upon mutual agreement of the
Parties that return or destruction of Protected Health
Information is infeasible, Business Associate shall extend
the protections of this Agreement to such Protected Health
Information and limit further uses and disclosures of such
Protected Health Information to those purposes that make
the return or destruction infeasible, for so long as Business
Associate maintains such Protected Health Inforrnation.
9- Miscellaneous.
a. Regulatoly References. A reference in this Agreement to a section in
the Privacy Rule means the section as in effect or as amended, and
for which compliance is required.
b. Amendment. The Parties agree to take such action as is necessary to
amend this Agreement from time to time as is necessary for Covered
Entity to comply with the requirements of the Privacy Rule and the
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, Public Law 104-
191.
C. Survival. The respective rights and obligations of Business Associate
under Sections 4(b) and 4(c) of this Agreement shall survive the
termination of this Agreement.
d. Interpretation. Any ambiguity in this Agreement shall be resolved in
favor of a meaning that permits Covered Entity to comply with the
Privacy Rule.
[Signatures Follow on Next Page]
112812009
The parties to this Agreement consent and agree to all of its provisions and by their signature
cause this Agreement to become effective on the date first above written.
Client/ Plan Sponsor (Client) on behalf of Covered Entity:
By:
Name:
rifle:
Company: Cjpj of Vernon
Date:
Igoe Administrative Services / Business Associate:
By. -
Company: Igoe Administrative Services
Date: January 28, 2009
112812009
EXHIBIT A - City of Vernon
COBRA Administration Fees 1r; Nine (9) Months Fee Guarantee
These fees are only applicable for CobraConnect or COW Download Services 12,
7hese fees do not apply to Clients with Cal Choice as their insurance carder. ff you are currently using Cal
Choice as your insurance carrier, or plan to switch to Cal Choice upon rene Wat please contact your Account
Manager for an updated fee schedule
Benefit Eligible Employeesm
Base Monthly Fee
Per PW Fee
20-200
$50.00
$25.00
201-500
$75.00
$25.00
501-1,000
$100.00
$22.50
1,001 — 1,500
$125.00
$22.50
1,501 — 2,000
$150.00
$20.00
2,001 — 2,500
$175.00
$20.00
2,501 — 3,000
$200.00
$17.50
3,001 — 3,500
$225.00
$17.50
3,501 — 4,000
$250.00
$15.00
4,001 — 6,000
$275.00
$12.50
Igoe Adminboadve Services willfetain a 2%premiwn fee for each PW and family. Upon inNalnodficadon, the 'POBFee"is
chargedper qualifying event notice issued Should 1goeAcWhistrative Services be requiredto re4ssue the qualifying event nofice,
one haff 1112) the "POB Fee' will he charged.
Download data must be formatted to match ourspeefficadons. ff additional work is requiredin orderto complete the download,
addWonal e.Wenses may apply.
If at any time during the contract period should the total number of benefit eligible employees increase or decrease, fees YWW be
billed according to the above graded fee schedule.
ADDITIONAL FEES:
Renewal/Open Enrollment Fees*: One haff P/.,) of the initial PW Fee per POB and family
These services Include entering of now/changed benefits plans and rates, mailing personalized letters to COBRA participants
outlining now/changed benefit plans and rater, generation of now coupons for all r"nrolled participants; and, processing of all
enrollments, changes or terminations.
Fees for Mergers/Acquisidons will be determined based an the time required to complete said service and will be agreed to by
both parties prior to the performance of such services.
'Postage expenses are included in the above fees; however, additional charges may apply for mailing of proidder clZroctodes.
OPTIONAL SERVICES (These additional services are only provided by request):
Sending of Initial DOL Notices:
Information Systems Programming/Consultation
$2.50 per Letter
$90.00 per Hour
U at any time during the plan year. should the total number of benefit covered employees decrease by 20% or more from the
total number of benefit covered employees at the time the Administrative Services Agreement was entered, Igoe Adminkftfive
Services reserves the right to require Employer to pay all administrative has, Including the Principal OnaMed Beneficiary Fee
('130" Fee), as indicated In this Exhibit A, in advance of the performance of work set forth in the contract.
112812009
4305 8anta Fe Avenue, Vernon, California 90058
Telephone (323) 583-8,811
March 23, 2009
IGOE Administrative Services
Attn: Michael C. Igoe, President/CEO
15090 Avenue of Science, Suite 201
San Diego, CA 92128
Re: COBRA Administrative Services Agreement
Dear Mr. Igoe:
Transmitted herewith is a copy of the fully executed agreement as referenced above, approved by
City Council on March 9, 2009, through Resolution No. 9878. , ,
If you have any questions regarding this matter, please call Mr. Willard Yamaguchi, at (323)
583-8811 ext. 175.
ry truly yours,
A
el Giron
City Clerk
NG:dj
c: Willard Yamaguchi
Karina Rueda
Resolution No. 9878
Agreement No. 09-03 8
Exclusivefy Industrid