pages: CityCouncil/2019-03-19.pdf, 24
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CityCouncil | 2019-03-19 | 24 | the OPEB liability. Councilmember Daysog stated the correct staffing expenditures is short-changing residents out of services needed in an effort to put reserves to OPEB payments. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated neither the Police Chief nor the Fire Chief have said that they will not hire staff members; open positions are attempted to be filled year after year. Councilmember Vella requested clarification of there being more retirees than active staff; stated the vacancies are in two departments that have a difficult time recruiting due to an involved process of academy training and background checks; inquired if the increases shown in the presentation are due to new discount rates from CalPERS. The Finance Director responded in the negative; stated CalPERS has changed assumptions including how long retirees live, demographics and investment types; outlined CalPERS new fee; stated the fee will grow over time; outlined the City's plan to pay down the upcoming debt; stated the goal is to drive the pension costs down. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated it is important for Council to monitor what CalPERS is proposing; monthly Board Meetings are held discussing investments and speakers are allowed; discussed a CalPERS 2018 conference and an upcoming session for elected officials. Councilmember Daysog stated that he was not implying department heads were purposely holding employment down; however, the effect of holding employment down should be considered. Councilmember Oddie stated as Council goes forward, the City will have more employees on PEPRA versus classic CalPERS; over time, the liability will drop; by putting the excess reserves to work, the City has saved a million dollars a year in PERS; in the event of an economic downturn, the liability can be paid versus cutting officers or closing a Fire Station; the revenues appear to be under estimated and expenses appear to be overestimated; he would prefer the budget be more accurate. Vice Mayor Knox White inquired whether or not work performed for the State is reimbursed. The Finance Director responded in the affirmative; outlined reimbursement policies. The Fire Chief stated the costs includes overtime of personnel, vehicle use charges, and the City's overhead rate. The Finance Director stated in Fiscal Year 2017-2018, 195 agencies made additional contributions to CalPERS above and beyond the normal requirement. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 20 March 19, 2019 | CityCouncil/2019-03-19.pdf |