The Cleburne County Commission held an emergency meeting on January 3, 2025, to address urgent insurance concerns following a significant increase in premiums. The discussion centered on the county's options for renewing its insurance policy, which was set to expire at midnight.

Commission members expressed dissatisfaction with the steep rise in insurance costs, emphasizing the need to explore alternative options. One key proposal was to secure a temporary insurance arrangement, allowing the county to continue coverage while searching for more affordable rates. The options discussed included paying the full year's premium upfront or opting for a minimum three-month payment plan for auto insurance, with month-to-month arrangements for buildings and equipment.

The commission noted that if they chose to pay for six months of coverage, they could receive a refund if they found a better deal before the term ended. However, auto insurance required a minimum payment of 25% upfront due to its arrangement through a broker.

Members also discussed the insurance experiences of neighboring counties, such as Randolph and Halton, which reported similar premium increases. The challenges of comparing rates were acknowledged, as different counties have varying numbers of vehicles and types of property.

Ultimately, the consensus leaned towards making a minimum payment to secure coverage for three months, allowing the commission time to investigate other insurance options without incurring penalties. This approach aims to ensure that Cleburne County remains protected while seeking a more cost-effective solution.