Board adjusts insurance for county storage buildings, authorizes payment

BENTON COUNTY — The Benton County board voted to reconfigure property insurance for county storage assets after discussing flood damage history, building insulation and equipment stored at two properties.

Unidentified Speaker 6 moved to increase coverage for the storage building that houses sheriff and weed-department equipment at 205 2nd Avenue and to reduce or drop the policy on the smaller Paul Building/garage behind the sheriff’s office at 111 East 3rd Street; the board approved the amended motion (SEG 775–783, 834–839).

During debate, officials described the practical difference between the two buildings: the 205 2nd Avenue structure was described as insulated and holding vehicles and equipment, while the 111 East 3rd garage was characterized as an uninsulated gravel-floored building with limited contents (SEG 515–523; SEG 695–701). Staff reported the insurer’s proposal would raise the insured value from about $143,000 to $158,000 for that building — an increase of roughly $15,000 — for an approximately $300 annual premium (SEG 713–718, 457–459).

The board also authorized the auditor’s office to issue a handwritten claim to pay the premiums immediately (SEG 433–436). Speakers noted some stored items may be owned by partner agencies or subject to grant reimbursements; those arrangements will be handled separately (SEG 420–424). One member asked whether replacement-cost coverage was available; staff said they would check with the county clerk (SEG 840–844).

The county said it will follow up with counsel and the clerk’s office for final policy details and to confirm whether stored partner equipment is covered by county insurance or reimbursable under grant terms.

The board approved other routine agenda items and adjourned.