A Thought on Pensions

September 27, 2010 Leave a comment

I like the following the quotation from a good study on state and local government salaries and pensions.

Note that the pension problem is not really “underfunding,” but the “overpromising” of benefits that the states cannot afford.

It is true that the problem is not that we didn’t tax our people enough, or that the stock market fell, but that city management and commissioners approved pensions (and other benefits) that were and are way too high.

The problem is to correct the original sin–over promising.

Filed under Coral Gables, Pensions

Candidates and the 2010-2011 Budget Hearing

September 27, 2010 Leave a comment

I hope and trust that the declared candidates will attend the budget hearing tomorrow and state their views about a number of issues–the millage rate, pension and benefits negotiations, the Biltmore, spending on capital projects.  I am sure you can think of other city issues.

It seems to me than any candidate who does not attend and speak has lost the morale authority to lead the city.

Filed under Coral Gables, Politics

Views of a New World Politician (May not Apply in Coral Gables)

September 26, 2010 1 Comment

Some characteristics of a modern politician committed to community involvement in government decisions.
  • Wants to here citizen feedback, even if it is unpleasant to hear;
  • Creates the conditions for a regular, open government approach to communication with citizens;
  • Subjects senior management to constant questioning about their plans for the future and communicates this to citizens;
  • Senior managers make known their plans to all of the community on a regular basis.
  • Like the good university professor, leaders set up hours during the week when citizens can raise specific questions about city government.
  • Is enormously tolerant and patient with critics of government and does not regularly denigrate critics with accusations of incivility and similar terms.
  • Does not hide from the citizens.
  • Does not communicate just with a small, closed circle of political contributors.

Filed under Coral Gables, Florida

Deferring Benefits: Would that have happened in Coral Gables?

September 25, 2010 Leave a comment

I wonder what sacrifices the city’s management, commissioners and mayor are willing to make for the good of the city.

So far there is no evidence that the city leaders are willing to take the lead in making sacrifices for the city.  Indeed, more than once we have heard that we have to keep employees, salaries and benefits up to sustain our quality of life.  Who is willing to forgo some of their salaries and benefits to demonstrate to the unions that they will lead the city in a time of sacrifice.  Will the candidates for public office make a pledge to work ad honorem for the well being of the city.

Florida A&M University President James Ammons says he’s deferring an $80,000 performance bonus due to tough economic times.

via Florida college president says he’s deferring $80K bonus – Miami-Dade Breaking News – MiamiHerald.com.

Filed under Budget, Coral Gables, Finance, Management

← Older posts

Newer posts →