Cowlitz County weighs leaving risk pool, considers Alliant broker and RFP timing

COWLITZ COUNTY — County risk management told commissioners it has been exploring alternatives to the existing insurance risk pool after consecutive double‑digit premium increases, recommending a careful approach to get live broker quotes and a transition plan.

Risk management staff said they solicited an Alliant proposal that, when combined with a recommended third‑party administrator (TPA) for claims coordination, could yield substantial savings compared with remaining in the current risk pool. Staff urged waiting until March or April to request live RFP responses so brokers have current data and can provide comparable quotes; staff suggested an RFP should seek at least one or two credible responses.

A staff presentation emphasized the complexity of municipal insurance purchases, the limited universe of brokers with the required municipal experience, and the need for a TPA to manage liability and abuse claims. One commissioner said Alliant’s local work and the TPA’s in‑state experience were persuasive; another said an RFP would demonstrate due diligence even if it produced similar insurers.

Commissioners agreed staff should proceed with targeted outreach and work to secure release letters so potential brokers can obtain live policy numbers; staff said they will schedule follow‑up briefings and can host an Alliant workshop if commissioners wish to meet their team. No final contract was approved at the meeting.