Starke County Reaps Benefits of Fewer Worker’s Compensation Claims

starke-county-courthouseStarke County is poised to save 11 percent on insurance premiums over last year. Carrie Block from First Choice Insurance in North Judson told the county commissioners Monday the decline is mostly due to fewer workman’s compensation claims over the past three years. Overall the county will save $52,435, as premiums dropped from $473,982 to $421,547 for 2016-17.

Commissioner Kathy Norem notes the safety committee meetings have been very helpful in reducing the number of on-the-job accidents. She also praised the efforts of the maintenance and highway departments to ensure proper training of their staffs. Block says First Choice Insurance is happy to help with any safety training the county feels may be beneficial.

The commissioners approved the insurance package for 2016-17 unanimously and authorized the addition of a builder’s risk policy effective Sept. 13 for the upcoming renovations of the old jail and courthouse.