SANDPOINT — When a large organization like the Lake Pend Oreille School District is trying to save money, keeping revenue within the local community may not be a top priority.

Such was apparently the case in January when the district chose an out-of-area insurance benefits consulting firm to coordinate coverage for its full-time workforce. According to district clerk Kelly Fisher, the district has 466 employees enrolled in its benefits program.

In November 2015, LPOSD called for bids from consulting firms. Lisa Hals, chief financial and operations officer for the district, said, "We wanted to be sure we had the most qualified and financially beneficial consultant available."

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