FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 21, 2004

For further information, contact –

Leon A. Gaumond Jr. , Executive Secretary at 413-525-5427

EAST LONGMEADOW RECEIVES $27,773 LOSS CONTROL GRANT FROM INSURANCE COMPANY

At a time when headlines announce budget cuts and fiscal shortfalls, the town of East Longmeadow received welcome news this week from its insurance carrier, the Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association (MIIA). As a result of the Town’s efforts to reduce future insurance claims, MIIA awarded the town a credit that will reduce its insurance premiums by $27,773.

In January of 2003, MIIA, the non-profit insurance arm of the Massachusetts Municipal Association, introduced a new program, The Loss Control Credit Program, designed to encourage members to work actively toward minimizing the potential for future claims against the town for such things as damage to property, workplace injuries, or improper actions by town officials. In order to earn credits, Town officials had to comply with measures designed to educate board members and reduce claims including viewing training videos, attending training sessions, reviewing employment policies and practices, and implementing recommendations aimed at reducing injuries, accidents, and legal liabilities.

While participation in this program was voluntary, the East Longmeadow Board of Selectmen and their Executive Secretary, Leon A. Gaumond Jr., made participation in this program a town-wide priority for the past two years. “The town officials worked hard to meet the program requirements, and in effect, maximized the potential savings for the town,” said Gary DeLisle, Chairman of the Board of Selectmen. “With this year’s program, the Town accomplished more than we did last year when we received an award from MIIA for saving $18,000. Compared to last year’s savings, our Town Departments had an outstanding year.”

This year, most communities who participated in the program earned an average premium discount of between 3 to 5 percent. The Town of east Longmeadow once again finished above the curve by earning an annual savings of 8.2%.

“Good risk management is good management,” added MMA Executive Director and MIIA President Geoff Beckwith, “and we are pleased that MIIA can help communities save money while promoting sound management practices.”