County Council approves increased cybersecurity coverage amid potential liability concerns

The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors convened on July 7, 2025, to discuss several key issues, primarily focusing on cybersecurity insurance and nonprofit coverage related to the dam area.

The meeting began with a discussion on the county's cybersecurity coverage. A motion was made to approve an increase in coverage with the insurance provider Abens, Marty, and Finn. The board emphasized the importance of this increase, noting that the previous coverage of $250,000 was insufficient in the event of a cybersecurity incident. The new coverage will raise the limit to $1 million, which is the maximum offered by the provider. The incremental cost associated with this increase was confirmed to be lower than what the county paid the previous year for other insurance policies. The motion was unanimously approved by the board.

Following the approval of the cybersecurity coverage, the conversation shifted to the insurance needs of a nonprofit group involved in dam-related activities. A board member inquired about the possibility of adding the nonprofit as an additional insured under the county's insurance policy. However, it was clarified that the county's insurance provider, ICAP, primarily serves municipalities and cannot provide primary coverage for the nonprofit. The underwriter indicated that while the nonprofit could potentially be added as an additional insured, it would need to have its own primary coverage in place first. The board agreed to await a formal written response from ICAP regarding this matter.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the board's proactive approach to managing cybersecurity risks and addressing the insurance needs of local organizations involved in community projects. The discussions underscored the importance of adequate coverage to protect the county's interests and ensure the safety of its operations. Further updates on the nonprofit insurance inquiry are expected in the coming weeks.