Ellis County approves $1.89 million insurance renewal; deductible structure revised

EJ Harbin, Ellis County's director of purchasing, presented the renewal agreement with Hibbs Hallmark for property, liability, auto, law enforcement, cyber and other coverages for the term 10/01/2026 through 09/30/2027. Harbin said the total renewal premium is $1,889,909.20, an increase of $286,098.20 attributed to expanded coverage and prior claims history.

Laurie Nelson of Hibbs Hallmark reviewed deductible changes: a $100,000 per‑incident deductible for claims other than wind or hail, and a wind/hail deductible equal to 2% of the effective building and contents value subject to a $250,000 minimum. Commissioners asked about loss history and potential to revisit terms if the county's loss experience improves. The court approved the renewal unanimously.

Commissioners and staff noted the higher deductible and premium reflect recent hail and other loss experience and that the renewal also covers new county assets, such as the Jefferson Street facility and replacement sheriff's vehicles being upfitted.