Coastal Bend leaders rally to gather support against proposed windstorm charges

Feb. 28--CORPUS CHRISTI -- There was a gusty gathering Thursday against proposed windstorm charges on the Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce steps.

About 20 leaders representing builders, business associations, property owners, realtors and area chambers gathered at 2 p.m. to plead for opposition.

"We object to paying separate insurance for windstorm coverage," said Stan Hulse, representing Padre Island Business association and island property owners.

The proposed surcharge could cost everyone more, if people don't get vocal, Hulse said.

Hulse echoed the rally cry of others for people to step up to object to a proposed additional assessment by the Texas Department of Insurance on property policies, which include auto, motorcycle, boat, recreational vehicle, homeowners, renters insurance and commercial coverage. They beckon people to attend a 9 a.m. Wednesday public hearing at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi's Ballrooms B and C for Texas Department of Insurance leaders to measure the response.

The unspecified changes seem discriminatory and ambiguous, said Chamber CEO Foster Edwards.

"This surcharge will impact the pocketbooks of everybody in the 14 coastal counties of Texas," Edwards said.

The Texas Windstorm Insurance Agency doesn't have the authority, assured Charlie Zahn, an attorney who is chairman of the Coastal Windstorm Task Force.

"We ask people to come out to voice their objection," Zahn said. "If you can't, please write a letter to share concerns with the Department of Insurance."

Corpus Christi Builders Association'sBart Braselton called it discrimination.

Portland Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Colette Walls also spoke out.

"We are growing," Walls said, "and don't want this surcharge to impact our growth."The changes were proposed by Texas' Insurance Commissioner Julia Rathgeber, who will be the hearing officer, and will decide if its adopted.

"It makes you ask 'How big a chance do you really have?' Edwards said. "We need everyone to show up, even if they just stand when asked who's opposed."

Twitter: @Caller_BizMike

If You Go

Who: Texas Department of Insurance

What: Hearing regarding proposed windstorm surcharges

When: 9 a.m. Wednesday

Where: Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi; Ballrooms B and C

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