Board approves Gibson for district insurance analysis; decision follows national solicitation

The board approved contracting with Gibson (proposal priced at $30,000) to provide insurance analysis and actuarial consulting services for the district, following a competitive solicitation and a prior consulting relationship with Morton & Company. The district issued a request for proposals; two responsive bids arrived and were presented to trustees. Mr. Williams told the board the district received two bids: Morton and Gibson. "Gibson is $30,000 whereas Morton's is 50,400," Williams said. He recommended Gibson as able to meet the RFP requirements at the lower cost; Williams also briefed the board on a possible statewide recalibration discussion the presenter said could change how districts purchase insurance in the future. A board motion to approve the insurance consultant, "as identified by Mr. Williams," passed by voice vote. Trustee Bridal made the motion and Jenny seconded; the chair called for aye and announced "Ayes have it. Motion carries." Williams said the district will proceed with the analysis services once the contract is executed and that the committee will begin work as soon as possible to ensure the district has actuarial and consultant support for its employee benefits program. He cautioned the board that state-level changes could alter the insurance landscape but said the district should do due diligence now. The action authorizes staff to finalize an agreement with Gibson and begin the planned analysis and bid process.