Commissioners table action on $1.86M hail-damage repair plan, ask for LEC inspection and additional cost estimates

Finney County staff presented updated Travelers Insurance estimates for roof damage sustained in a July hail event and asked the Board to authorize claim reconciliation and repair planning for 11 county buildings. The replacement-cost estimate for all affected roofs is $1,859,315.45, with recoverable depreciation up to $498,253.01 and $750,330.11 already paid by Travelers to the county, according to presentation materials.

Maintenance director Nolan Tild said Travelers completed an updated damage and repair estimate and that payment of recoverable depreciation requires completion of repairs and submission of receipts. Insurance representative Trent Speck explained how large claims were handled, noting the insurer applied the deductible and adjusted payments; commissioners sought clarification on why the Law Enforcement Center (LEC) was not included in the inspected list. Staff confirmed the LEC had not been inspected and agreed to request a Travelers inspection to determine whether that roof should be added.

After discussion about premiums, deductibles, contract approach and the desire not to accept a settlement that leaves the county with larger out-of-pocket costs, the board voted to table the claim-reconciliation and repair plan (adopt alternative 4) to allow additional staff and legal review and to include inspection of the LEC. Commissioners asked maintenance to provide contractor cost estimates that align with Travelers’ proposals and to return with updated numbers.

Why it matters: The potential outlay and recoverable funds are substantial for county facility maintenance budgets. Commissioners were concerned about settling claims without ensuring all key county assets, especially the LEC, were evaluated.

Next steps: Staff will request Travelers re-inspect the LEC, collect contractor estimates and return with a revised scope and fiscal comparison.