When AIM takes over CLEAT's insurance business at the beginning of the new year, the only difference members should notice is perhaps a new voice on the other end of the telephone line.

On Jan. 1, 2005, AIM (Associated Insurance Managers) will assume the insurance business now run by CLEAT. The result, according to CLEAT's Larry Watts, will be the same great service at prices that are even more competitive.

"Six years ago, we started the agency to provide low-cost insurance at a high service level to our members," said Larry Watts. "We were so successful that several large insurance companies inquired about taking over our business, and we have made a decision to partner with AIM."

The Houston-based AIM got the nod because CLEAT believed  aim could provide the affordable prices and level of service that CLEAT clients had some to expect.

"After talking to AIM, we realized they could offer more lines of products because they're a lot bigger than us," Watts said.

Because AIM has access to more insurance companies, members' insurance needs will be shopped around to more companies, which means lower prices. This is in line with CLEAT's existing policy of doing business with the company that offers the best prices, Watts said.

The agency's primary goal – providing members with the best legal plan for police officers – remains the same, Watts said. He added that although CLEAT is selling its “book of business,” the association will maintain a "preferred provider" relationship with the new owner.

Although the new partner is not slated to officially take over until Jan. 1, Watts said, "We hope to have AIM reps in here this month, working with us and getting ready to take the reins."

Don Hogan, AIM owner and president, called the partnership “a good mix,” and said, “We look forward to handling CLEAT’s clients.”

AIM is an independent agency comprising six family-owned businesses. Hogan said, “We are committed to providing our clients with not only the best prices and the most choices, but also consistent service after the sale."

Hogan has been a Certified Insurance Counselor since 1972, and was the Texas Professional Insurance agent of the year in 1978.