Carroll County staff report insurance premium increase; recommend moving two coverages back to Liberty

County staff presented a preview of Carroll County's FY2027 property and casualty insurance, noting a premium increase and recommending consolidation of some coverages.

Alicia told commissioners the Marsh McLennan packet shows the county's total premiums rose from $1,727,000 last year to $1,934,000 this year. She said the county's loss-run ratios have improved over the past three years, which helped in negotiations, though insurers typically evaluate a five-year run. "We have not fallen into that category until this year," Alicia said, commending department heads and employees for safety work that reduced claims and improved the county's position.

Staff recommended moving public official liability and employment practices liability from Greenwich back to Liberty, while retaining Greenwich for law enforcement liability. Alicia said Liberty had previously not wanted certain lines but has agreed to resume two coverages because the county's risk profile improved; she added Greenwich declined to reinsure law enforcement lines, citing broad jail liabilities nationally and an insurer's reluctance to cover facilities above certain sizes.

Commissioners asked about limits: Alicia noted a $2 million public official liability limit and a $1 million general liability limit, and discussed sovereign-immunity considerations and umbrella coverage. No formal action or vote was taken; commissioners approved including the premium figures in the draft budget and accepted staff's recommendation to pursue the carrier changes for board consideration.