Fenton committee declines insurance claim for aging roofs, orders proposals for replacement and approves snow-rail bid

The Fenton Board Committee decided not to file a wind-only insurance claim for two aging roofs at city facilities and instead directed staff to solicit formal bids to replace the roofs.

City staff reported wind damage and loose shingles on the roofs of city hall and the community development building. Staff estimates replacement costs at about $200,000 and noted the policy's deductible and claim history could affect renewals. Amy, an insurance consultant, cautioned that insurers are increasingly denying or nonrenewing policies for claims on roofs at end of life and that filing a claim could raise the city—s underwriting risk.

Why it matters: The committee balanced the immediate financial relief an insurance payment could provide against the long-term insurance-market risk of claims activity in the city—s ZIP code. Staff said the current wind/hail deductible framework and prior claims activity (for reference, Riverchase had been handled under a separate buy-down arrangement) complicated the decision.

After discussion, Alderman Brightshaft moved that the city not submit an insurance claim for the two roofs and that staff solicit additional proposals for full replacement; Alderman Jokers seconded. The motion passed on a voice vote.

Separately, the committee addressed snow-rail (snow fencing) attachments for the buildings. Staff had sought additional bids and recommended a single-rail solution. The committee approved forwarding Superior—s bid of $12,850 for snow railing installation to the board (motion by Brightshaft, second by Masring), so the vendor can be mobilized in conjunction with ongoing gutter work.

Staff will prepare formal bid packages for roof replacement and return proposals to the board; they were also instructed to avoid filing an insurance claim for the current wind-only damage.