Hudson City Council approves $586K claims and police squad car purchase

During the Hudson City Council meeting on May 5, 2025, a significant focus was placed on the city's rising property insurance costs, prompting discussions about budget adjustments for the upcoming year. Council members expressed concerns about the upward trend in insurance premiums, which have been influenced by increasing property values and recent weather-related claims affecting municipal buildings.

The finance director confirmed that the city’s property insurance line item stands at $52,000 for the year, noting that while specific trends were not immediately available, the overall increase in property values is impacting insurance costs. The council discussed the possibility of exploring different insurance providers, although they currently utilize the League of Wisconsin Cities for coverage, which is typically the most cost-effective option.

In addition to the insurance discussion, the council approved claims totaling $586,504.93 and authorized the purchase of a new squad car for the police department, marking a step forward in the city’s capital improvements for 2025. The police chief highlighted that this vehicle is part of a larger order, with one previously delayed and now arriving.

As the meeting concluded, the council moved to adjourn, reinforcing their commitment to addressing the financial challenges posed by rising insurance costs while continuing to support essential services like public safety. The discussions set the stage for future budget considerations as the city navigates these financial pressures.