Marion paying brownout claims
Staff writer
The city of Marion paid three $500 insurance deductibles for residents who had damage from electrical brownouts this year.
The city paid $1,000 to EMC Insurance for deductibles on Gambino’s Pizza and someone listed on the same city warrant list as a person identified only as Waner.
It also paid a $500 deductible to EMC for damage to Historic Elgin Hotel.
Judy Smith, co-owner of Gambino’s Pizza, said she filed a claim for damage to a prep table and exhaust fan. As late as a week ago, she said she didn’t know whether the claim would be paid, but the city paid $500 to EMC on her behalf in early July.
Numerous downtown businesses suffered equipment damage because of the brownouts.
Historic Elgin Hotel co-owner Tammy Ensey mentioned at a Marion Merchants meeting that her hotel had received a claim payment.
Wagon Wheel Express incurred thousands of dollars worth of damages from the brownouts. Co-owner Sherry Hess said she hasn’t decided whether to file a claim against the city’s insurance.
Insurance agent Alex Case, who represents EMC, said several businesses had filed for damages, but he would not provide a specific number.
EMC investigates claims and decides whether payment will be made.