ADRIAN — Lenawee County’s unemployment insurance costs remained low in 2025, according to a report presented to the Personnel and Ways & Means Committee.
County Administrator Kimberly Murphy reported total unemployment claims of just under two thousand dollars for the year, even as county payroll exceeded twenty-seven million dollars.
The county continues to operate a self-funded unemployment insurance system, with departments assessed a flat rate of point-three percent of payroll to cover claims.
Despite year-to-year fluctuations, the report shows unemployment costs have consistently remained well below the amount assessed, allowing excess funds to be refunded back to departments.
At the end of 2025, the county’s unemployment insurance liability account carried a balance of more than seventy-seven thousand dollars before refunds were issued.
Officials noted the assessment rate will remain unchanged for 2026, though adjustments could be considered if claims increase.
The report provides a snapshot of county employment stability at a time when national unemployment claims have been volatile.