Commissioners keep current insurance broker for one year after debate over bids

Alexander County commissioners voted 3–1 to continue the county’s existing insurance broker relationship with Hiller & Raimann for one year instead of immediately switching to a staff recommendation for Surrey Insurance.

County Attorney Ben Faulconberry summarized the request for proposals for property, liability and workers' compensation broker services and said four firms submitted proposals. He told the board staff had reviewed proposals for service capability, local government experience and fee structure and that the staff packet contained detailed comparisons.

A commissioner moved to approve Surrey Insurance of Dobson per staff recommendation, but the motion failed when there was no second. Commissioner Reese then moved to continue with Hiller & Raimann for one year so the county could avoid rushed quotes and give prospective brokers adequate time to assess the county’s coverage needs; another commissioner seconded that motion. After discussion about the practical challenges of compiling quotes for large public‑entity policies, the board voted 3–1 to keep Hiller & Raimann for one year.

One commissioner explained the practical reason for the extension: commercial brokers often need up to 60 days to assemble accurate proposals for a large public entity and Hiller & Raimann already “have a pretty good idea” of the county’s exposures, reducing the risk of coverage gaps or inaccurate bids.

The board directed staff to place the procurement on the calendar earlier next year to allow more time for outreach and to avoid a repeat of the timing difficulties experienced in prior cycles. No premium amounts or contract terms were adopted during the meeting.