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Council renews PRISM membership; staff says pooled purchasing saved millions
Summary
The council authorized continued participation in the PRISM risk‑sharing JPA through FY2030; staff said pooled purchasing saved about $7.5 million for general liability and described $47.4 million budgeted for insurance premiums.
The City Council authorized continuing San Diego’s membership in PRISM (Public Risk Innovation Solutions and Management), the joint powers authority that helps public agencies purchase insurance and share risk, and gave staff authority to access other cost‑effective insurance solutions as needed.
Angela Colton, director of the city’s Risk Management Department, told the council the budget approved last week includes $47,400,000 for various insurance premiums and that, in fiscal year 2025, the city realized an estimated $7,500,000 in savings by purchasing general liability and property insurance through PRISM. Colton described PRISM’s member services, training and claims support and emphasized the city’s active governance role in the JPA.
Public commenters raised concerns about city contracts and liability (including sharp criticism from a frequent public speaker), while other commenters recommended reviewing tech‑accountability resources to limit future liabilities for surveillance or data practices. Councilmembers who serve on PRISM‑related committees thanked staff for their engagement and emphasized the work to reduce litigation and prevent injuries.
A motion to approve staff’s recommendation carried with the recorded vote in the transcript described as unanimous with one member absent. Councilmembers noted ongoing efforts to add staffing in the liability section to process claims more quickly and reduce litigation costs.
