Pleasant Prairie approves 2026–27 liability and property insurance renewal amid rising workers’ comp costs

Village staff recommended renewing liability, property and workers’ compensation coverage for the 2026–27 policy year with existing carriers, and the board approved the renewal.

Laura (speaker 11), presenting on behalf of staff, said the renewal proposal reflects a roughly 10% increase from last year and outlined line-item changes: workers’ compensation represents the largest share of the premium ($504,723) and rose by approximately $58,365; liability and auto physical damage together totaled $230,761 and increased about $9,890; property and contractors equipment premium totaled $165,533. Laura said the village’s workers’ comp experience mod increased from 1.18 to 1.30 based on recent loss years and that staff expects a reduction in the mod next year that could lower premiums.

Rick Kelsher (speaker 4), the village’s insurance agent, confirmed that Wisconsin sets workers’ compensation rate components and described several large claims in older policy years that affected the mod. He said the projected drop in the mod next year could reduce the village’s workers’ comp costs significantly.

Staff recommended and the board approved renewal with the League of Wisconsin Municipalities for liability and workers’ comp, MPEC for property coverage, Liberty Surplus for storage tanks, Hanover for crime coverage and Cowbell for cyber insurance. The renewal was approved by voice vote.

Next steps: staff will adjust budgeting to reflect higher premiums and will return with any contract paperwork or detailed invoices necessary for fiscal implementation.