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Volunteer departments say VFIS premiums and other insurance costs are driving budgets up
Summary
Multiple volunteer fire department representatives told the commissioners VFIS insurance premiums have been increasing—one speaker said roughly 10% annually since switching to separate contracts—and several departments are soliciting alternative carriers to avoid higher costs or restrictive coverage requirements.
Representatives from several volunteer fire departments told Kendall County commissioners that insurance is a major and rising expense. One department said that after moving to their own contracts with VFIS the company began increasing documentation and requirements and that premiums have risen by about 10% per year over the last two years.
"They estimate 10% increase every year," a department representative said when describing recent VFIS premium changes. Several speakers asked the county to be cautious when comparing alternative quotes, warning that lower premiums may reflect reduced coverage.
Commissioners asked departments to provide complete line‑item detail so the court could evaluate quote comparisons and ensure any new carrier provides equivalent coverage. Departments said they would bring quotes and plan comparisons to the next budget meeting for staff review.
