What a crazy time we live in. Everything is different. In just the last two months our personal lives, business lives, and staffing have all changed. Hard to believe that the world was normal just 60 days ago. In January, we were all dealing with “normal” business challenges. In February, the Board reviewed 2019 financials and declared a $4.5 million dividend to MTM member-owners. Dividend check deliveries began Tuesday, March 3rd and 10 days later by Governor’s Executive Order, the process was halted. Like some of you, I have been in business for over 45 years. I’ve seen many ups and downs, yet this business challenge is different.

During this shutdown, MTM is remaining fully functional and here’s what we are doing for our members:

• Our Claims Department is receiving, processing, and investigating claims like they always do.
• Underwriting is processing certificates, endorsements, and policy renewals.
• Accounting work has changed some with more discussions about billing adjustments and current status.
• Marketing is holding renewal meetings (via conference call), distributing renewal quotes, sending out weekly notices and providing updated required posters.
• Loss Control, at this point, is unable to visit member shops. However, each day our Loss Control representatives are contacting 45 of our members via phone and email to check in. They are available to help via phone or for emergency accident reports.

So, to summarize, all MTM member support functions continue just with some adjustments on how the work is being done.

I report to 10 shop owners and executives that make up the MTM Board of Directors. As we enter our 45th year of operation, the Board directives and focus of the management team is unchanged. What can we do to help our members?

Another item of importance during this time of instability is that MTM’s financial strength remains strong. MTM’s investments are over 90% government bonds. This has been a strategic positioning that we did not want the stability of MTM to fluctuate with the ups and downs of the stock market. We have been willing to accept a more conservative rate of return via bonds. By doing that, we also do not live with the stock market downturns.

In these most unusual times, MTM is working hard to be a stable part of your business support. Please call us to help and stay healthy.