Union County board members approved renewal of the county's risk-management coverage for fiscal year 2026 after a presentation from the county's risk advisor.

Brent, a risk management representative with Cinecom Risk Management, told the board the county's overall insurance renewal averaged an increase of about 11 percent. "Your average right now, you're at 11%," Brent said, and he noted one specific change to the auto coverage: "the auto deductibles that raised from 2,500 to 5,000." He also described available services that accompany the program, including safety training and a $10,000 safety grant periodically offered by the trust.

The presentation covered the policy's scope and examples of covered property and equipment. Brent said the trust's coverage includes county vehicles and maintenance equipment, and that buildings would be replaced rather than partially repaired in a total-loss scenario. He noted the market and replacement-cost changes that drive higher premiums, citing the rising cost of vehicles and repair as factors.

Board members asked about specific coverages. Brent confirmed the policy includes earthquake coverage and that on-the-job injuries for county employees remain covered through workers' compensation. He also described the renewal process and the county's responsibility to report newly purchased or sold assets during the year so they remain insured.

After the discussion, a board member moved to approve the renewal contract for FY2026. The motion passed, recorded as approved by the members present.

The renewal approval means the county will continue under the Illinois counties risk-management program for the coming fiscal year and will adopt the revised deductibles and the other terms described in the presentation.