Politics & Government

Public Pension Forum

The Marin County Board of Supervisors is convening an educational forum to provide the public with information and a wide range of perspectives on the issue of County employee pensions. Public employee pensions have become an important topic in the recent economic downturn, as the percent of Marin County government’s total budget going toward retirement pension obligations has increased. There are different points of view about what Marin County should do, but there appears to be general agreement about the need to move toward more “sustainable” pensions. 

After adopting pension reform principles this past December, the Board of Supervisors has engaged state legislators and the California State Association of Counties to promote pension reform efforts. The Board has also publicly supported the Governor’s proposed plan for statewide pension reform.

“Marin County government is committed to working until we have restructured our pension program to be sustainable over time, while also allowing us to attract and retain quality workers. Public participation will help us in this effort” said Board President Steve Kinsey.

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The meeting will include:

  • An explanation of pensions currently offered to Marin County employees
  • A review of county government’s ability to fund pensions now and in the future
  • An update on the Governor’s proposed pension reform plan
  • Varying options to reduce the County’s future pension liabilities
  • Opportunities for audience questions and comments throughout the evening

Panelists will include:

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  • Richard Gillihan - California Department of Finance
  • Matthew Hymel - Marin County Administrator
  • Denis Rice - former member Marin County Board of Supervisors
  • Larry Chu – Member of the Larkspur City Council
  • Phillip Thomas - Marin Association of Public Employees
  • Gregg Adam – Partner with Carroll, Burdick, McDonough, LLP

The event is at 6pm on Tuesday, April 3, 2012 at the Osher Marin Jewish Community Center, located at 200 North San Pedro Road, San Rafael. Parking at the Community Center is limited; however, overflow spaces are available across the street at the Venetia Valley Elementary School. Light refreshments will be served at the meeting. While open to any interested members of the community, the County appreciates the courtesy of an RSVP to help ensure there will be adequate food, seating and handouts. 

Tp RSVP or to get more info, contact Janis West in the County Administrator's Office at 415-473-6358 or jwest@marincounty.org.


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