Mike, a long‑time Horton Group consultant to LaSalle County, announced at the committee’s Oct. 24 meeting that he will retire from the Horton Group at the end of the year.

“There's no good timing to do this, but, to let the group here know I appreciate everything and the relationship we've had. I am retiring from the Horton Group at the end of this year,” Mike said, according to the meeting transcript. He thanked committee members for their collaboration and said the Horton Group team will remain engaged with the county.

Following Mike’s announcement, Bobby Duffkis — introduced as the public‑sector practice leader for Marsh McLennan — addressed the committee and said he will work with Beth and other Horton Group staff on LaSalle County matters going forward. Bobby said Marsh McLennan oversees benefits for multiple public entities in the region and manages several public‑sector cooperatives.

Why it matters: the consultant team advising the county on claims, renewals and plan design will remain available, but the retiring lead consultant’s departure represents a staffing transition for an ongoing service relationship that covers the county’s employee health plan.

Committee members offered thanks to Mike; the meeting proceeded with planned agenda items.

Ending: Mike said the Horton Group team and the newly introduced Marsh McLennan leaders will continue servicing LaSalle County’s employee benefits work through the transition.