Commissioners choose IPEP for workers' compensation after insurance review

Mister Estill, who presented the county's insurance renewals, told the Board that property and inland marine coverage would see a modest 3% increase and that cyber liability rose from about $9,600 to roughly $10,300 while health-professional liability edged up from $13,500 to $13,700.

Estill said the county's workers' compensation premium with West Bend the previous year was about $340,000. He reported that IPEP submitted a market quote of about $302,000 while West Bend quoted roughly $304,000. Estill recommended IPEP, citing a long-standing relationship with public-sector accounts and more hands-on safety services that include on-site visits and training opportunities.

Commissioners discussed differences in safety training and vendor responsiveness. One commissioner asked whether the county would still receive the same level of safety training if it switched carriers; Estill said IPEP tends to be more consultative and more present in public-sector settings, while West Bend handles multiple lines of business and its safety representative covers a broader portfolio.

After discussion, a motion to select IPEP for workers' compensation coverage was made, seconded and approved by voice vote, recorded in the meeting as carrying 3-0.

The presenter noted the county expected an overall premium reduction in the low tens of thousands of dollars compared with the prior year and that either option would produce savings versus last year's figure. The board did not set further conditions in the meeting; routine renewals for other lines were confirmed as part of the same insurance review.