Leawood approves Travelers 2026 property-liability proposal; staff outline risk-fund and self-insurance timeline

The Leawood governing body unanimously adopted a resolution approving Travelers Insurance Company's 2026 property and liability proposal and authorized the mayor to execute a first addendum to the insurance brokerage agreement with Arthur J. Gallagher Risk Management.

Council member Larson asked how the city protects against conflicts of interest where Gallagher provides brokerage services and a new Gallagher-affiliated property program exists. Consultant James Charlesworth, of Charlesworth Consulting, said the program created a more competitive environment and any fees or additional compensation would be disclosed: “We talked quite a bit about them disclosing any fees, any additional compensation… we would definitely disclose any conflict of interest if one existed,” Charlesworth said.

Staff reported the renewal increase came in at roughly 2.6% over last year, noting the city had budgeted a 22% increase earlier to be conservative. Risk-management staff said the city aims, barring large wind or hail events, to consider self-insurance options within the next three to five years by building up the new risk-management fund balance.

Council moved and seconded the resolution and approved it by voice vote.

Next steps: Staff will finalize the addendum and continue monitoring claims and the risk-management fund buildup; any material changes or claims will be reported to council.