Bickmore Risk Services and Consulting

In the mid-1970s, public entities were unable to purchase some types of insurance and/or obtain affordable coverage in the commercial market. As a result, legislation was enacted in states to authorize pubic entities to self-insure and pool their assets to jointly control their risks and pay their claims.

By the mid-1980s, commercial liability insurance was virtually unavailable for public entities. Consequently, public agencies turned to Joint Powers Authorities (JPAs) to provide for and fund their coverage. Over the past two decades JPAs have proven to be a successful endeavor. Many of the JPAs that formed in the late 1970s and early 1980s are reaping the benefits of their endeavor through dividends paid to members.

Although the initial premise behind JPAs was to share losses, JPAs soon learned that in order to be successful, they also needed to consider their exposure to loss and reduce their risk through safety and risk control programs. JPAs formed for the purpose of sharing losses were originally referred to as joint powers "insurance" authorities but are now more commonly referred to as "risk management" joint powers authorities, which more accurately describes the full function of the JPAs.

What We Do

Through unparalleled attention to detail and expansive group formation and management services, BRS' objective is to share the costs and rewards of risk for our JPAs clients. By offering streamlined administrative and management service, BRS reduces the time and expenses associated with managing JPAs, while increasing operational efficiency.

• Form and structure JPAs and JPA programs
• Handle JPA accreditation preparations
• Streamline JPA approval processes
• General JPA management / administrative support
• Advise JPAs on membership growth opportunities
• Work with JPA boards of directors, and executive committees