News file photo Alpena County Commissioners meet in October 2021 in this News file photo.

Alpena County commissioners’ 2022 paychecks will reflect a boost meant to correct an inequality in health care coverage.

Previously, some commissioners’ ages disqualified them for either health care coverage or the $400 the county offers to people not eligible for the coverage for other reasons.

As of the October Board of Commissioners meeting, beginning Jan. 1, no commissioners will receive the $400 in lieu of health care coverage, and all salaries will increase by $400 per month. Those wishing to purchase health care through the county must pay 100% of the premium, at just under $400 per month.

The Alpena County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday approved the same change for the county drain commissioner and voted to keep the same health care plan for county workers for 2022, with no increase in worker contribution. The county will match up to $800 employees place in a health savings account, according to Alpena County Clerk Bonnie Friedrichs.