The Kearney R‑I Board approved an insurance renewal package for property, liability, cyber and workers’ compensation totaling $1,028,939 — an increase of about 16% from last year. Presenters attributed roughly $37,000 of the increase to added square footage and payroll, and about $74,000 to workers’ compensation as older, low-claim COVID-era years roll off the five-year experience modification calculation.

Speaker 13 explained the components: "This would be our school district insurance, including property, liability, cyber, workers' comp, and in the amount of $1,028,939, which is an increase of 16%." Trustees asked whether the district had budgeted for the rise; the finance presenter said the budget had been increased in anticipation. Board members pressed staff to pursue competing bids and requested a historic premium and payout/claims spreadsheet; administration said it has up to 10 years of premium history and will include claims in the next board update.

The board also discussed the district’s participation in the MUSIC pool (described by a presenter as covering about 94% of public institutions) and noted that leaving the pool could mean a five-year exclusion. Staff said they are exploring options, including a higher deductible (e.g., $50,000) that might lower premiums.

The board moved and approved the payment; staff will return with historical premium/claims data and any alternatives to reduce costs.