Insurance rates affect county budget

COLFAX — Commissioners discussed insurance rate increases and the effect it has on the 2025 budget during the Monday, Sept. 30, workshop.

Commissioner Michael Largent reported on a meeting with the liability insurance company.

“They are starting to tighten up their estimates, they are now at about a 18% to 19% rate increase,” reported Largent.

Whitman County Chief Finance Administrator Jessica Jensema reported through Zoom comments the increase was $170,000 more than originally budgeted for 2025.

Jensema reported that it was a $340,000 total increase from 2024 to 2025.

“Much around that meeting was around structurally looking at our program to try to deal with that,” Largent reported, noting the major driving force is macro-economic factors across the nation.

Largent reported The Washington Counties Risk Group (WCRG) is emphasizing moving forward in a two-pronged approach working on reducing claims.

According to Largent, the county has not had a large amount of claims but some issues that come up are deputies hitting deer or keeping up on building maintenance.

Other issues reported included certifications of the Sheriff’s Office and the IT department. It would also impact public defenders.

“I think you’ll see a push from WCRG on claims and certifications, making sure we’re certified,” reported Largent, adding they are going to send him information to examine for a policy.

“We do not feel the rate increases are sustainable,” reported Largent.

Swannack reported the Washington State Supreme Court is considering new criteria for a decreased case load from about 25% from where they are currently.

“It’s either 150 or 160 cases per year they can do,” reported Swannack, noting the bottom line is a million dollar increase in public defense.

“Which would impact everybody’s capacity to serve their constituents,” said Largent.

Commissioners discussed moving forward by sending a letter to the Supreme Court.

“I have not heard back from our current public defenders on a statement,” said Swannack.