Dunkirk Insurance Bill Rises 8.6% to $133,885

From the Dunkirk City Council meeting on April 13, 2026

Dunkirk City Council approved a liability insurance renewal of $133,885, an 8.6% increase over the previous year. The policy includes a zero-dollar deductible on automotive claims. The quote came from agent Aaron Walters.

Council member Dan made the motion to approve. Jesse seconded. The motion carried.

For a city with a total 2026 budget of $2.64 million, the insurance bill represents approximately 5% of all annual spending — a significant line item for a municipality Dunkirk's size.

The minutes do not name the insurance carrier or state the previous year's premium amount. The specific drivers behind the year-over-year increase were not discussed.

Dunkirk taxpayers are covering a growing insurance cost that now takes five cents of every dollar the city spends.

Source: Dunkirk City Council minutes 4/13/26 (PDF from dunkirkin.gov/meeting-minutes/)