Over the years, many insurance agencies have inquired about the city switching their “Agent of Record” business to them and the council has always voted to stay with Maddox Insurance Agency. According to councilman Randall Clark, the other agencies never offered any advantages to changing out all of that paperwork. That changed on Monday night.
Stephen Vick of Vick Insurance Group addressed the board citing his company would remove the burden of city employees and place it back in the hands of insurance professionals. Vick said, “We would like to that hometown agent. I was born and raised here. We have a Camden focus and a Camden base.”
Speaking on three components, education, prevention and reduction, Vick said that Vick Insurance Group will be dedicated to all of the city’s needs.
Clark said that he would like to see better communication from the city “Agent of Record.” Vick responded, “I am not here to speak on what you have received in the past. I would definitely want to make it more efficient, and make sure the city is insured properly.”
Lisa Maddox was present representing Maddox Insurance Agency and said that it has been a privilege to serve the city.
Clark said, “Vick Insurance Group is offering something to help the city by taking care of claims that city employees are currently handling.” He then went on to make a motion to accept Vick Insurance Group as “Agent of Record.” Councilman Richard Smith declared a “conflict” since he is a current client of Vick Insurance and councilwoman Debbie Baldwin passed on the vote. The motion carried with four council members voting with approval.
An elder at Camden Cumberland Presbyterian Church spoke next. Joseph Holmes asked the council to approve the installation of a digital carillon system. According to Holmes, the system will provide Westminster chimes and hour strikes. The music played will be seasonally appropriate and play for community events. It will also sound during special gatherings such as funerals, weddings, and as a call-to-worship on Sundays.
The system is being funded in-part by a grant in honor of the late former City Attorney, Andrew Frazier. The excess will be raised by fundraising.
After a brief discussion, the council agreed it would benefit the county and it was voted unanimously to approve the motion.
An updated burning permit requirement was also approved on Monday. Mike Townsend, Codes Officer, said a new permit is required to end the burning of plastics and hazardous materials. The new permit will also come with an expiration date.
