pages: CityCouncil/2019-03-19.pdf, 23
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CityCouncil | 2019-03-19 | 23 | the previous VLF given up for property tax. The Finance Director responded in the affirmative; stated the State previously took VLF's away from cities, but increased the property tax to cover the amount; continued the Power Point presentation. Councilmember Vella inquired the impact of the Public Employees' Pension Reform Act (PEPRA) new hires under safety departments. The Finance Director responded there are only 25 PEPRA employees. In response to Councilmember Vella's inquiry regarding the number of vacancies, the Fire Chief stated there are currently 11 sworn vacancies and one civilian vacancy in the Fire Department. The Human Resources Director responded there are approximately 10 vacancies in the Police Department. Councilmember Daysog expressed concern about the increase in the miscellaneous retirement formula; stated that he would like to know more about the portion of reserves above 25% that is dedicated to Other Oost-Employment Benefits (OPEB) and retirement; inquired whether vacancies are driving up reserves. The Finance Director responded in the affirmative; stated each department is trying to hire staff. Councilmember Daysog stated to the extent that departments are not hiring, there are not actual dollars being expended causing the revenue side to be more than the expenditures side. The Finance Director stated the revenue will not repeat in the following year. Councilmember Daysog stated some departments have had vacancies for multiple years; expressed concern with the formula for excess reserves beyond 25%. Vice Mayor Knox White requested clarification on the issue raised by Councilmember Daysog. Councilmember Daysog outlined his reasoning for the formulaic issue calculating excess reserves beyond 25%. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she understands Councilmember Daysog's concern; discussed her role in Council's use of budget surplus; stated Council established 25% as a good reserve to have; Council has a growing OPEB and CalPERS liability and a moral obligation to pay retirees; that she expects a recession in the future; the City has saved over $1 million per year; the City needs to be extremely careful when adding to Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 19 March 19, 2019 | CityCouncil/2019-03-19.pdf |