Town hopes for savings

BROWNSTOWN — The county seat will save as much as $5,000 on insurance costs in the coming year, thanks to a more competitive environment.

“I wanted to get a second quote this year,” insurance agent Andy Fountain told council members during their meeting Monday night at town hall.

“I wanted to get the best that we can,” Fountain said of the town’s insurance, which expires at the end of October.

For the past 10 years, Fountain has helped the town obtain its insurance through Municipal Insurance Alliance.
That company’s quote for coverage for the coming year is $25,481, Fountain said. He added the company also provides coverage for Seymour, Crothersville and the county and has a good track record of responding to claims.

“It’s the same exact coverage,” he said. “The market is more competitive. We’re starting to see some lower rates.”

Fountain said because of the competitive rates, he also obtained a quote from Indiana Municipal Insurance, and that quote was about $600 to $700 less.

Council members eventually voted to stay with Municipal Insurance Alliance.

Council President Leroy Warren said he believes Municipal has provided the town with good service over the years.

In another matter, council members approved Mike Patton’s request for a permanent sign for his business, Michee’s Hot Dogs & Deli on 316 W. Commerce St.

Patton opened that business earlier this year and said he is planning to open a room that can be used for parties. He also said he has employed as many as 15 people but now has 10 employees because he has learned to operate the business more efficiently.

Council members also voted 4-0 to close an alley between 119 and 121 E. Walnut St.

Rick Brown, who owns the property at both addresses, said the move would make the property more marketable and help with concerns about an awning across the alley between the former feed mill that operated at both addresses.

“The awning is very much a hazard,” Brown said. “It’s always been an issue.”