Agenda Packets - 2019/05/06 - Laserfiche WebLink

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April 26, 2019 Page 8 Statute 424A (Volunteer Firefighters Retirement), not to mention the "front-page" headline test of whether it is the "right" and ethical thing to allow. (Like most Tabor law, the issues are complex and fact intense. In short, the ability to receive dual pensions for the same hour of service is unlawful in Minnesota and is not prevalent in the current fire service to my knowledge. See White Paper on Double Dipping/Two Hatter/FLSA for more detail.) 3. Further Discussion As previously stated, there are several working groups that are already actively engaged in these matters (To the best of my knowledge there are none. The two working groups aforementioned completed their work and while they could be reconstituted, one was statutorily driven and expired with completion. The State Auditors Volunteer Pension Working Group is likely to meet but other than agreeing to consider two items regarding vesting raised by Pension Commission member,s their agenda items are set by a submission/consensus choice process that will not occur until they meet again next November. Furthermore, I am unaware of any group that has ever taken up the charge/issues of Double Dipping and re -consideration of pension funding for other uses.) These working groups should be allowed to continue their work on pension -related matters as this collaborative approach has proven to be an effective model. The fire service would most certainly welcome a meeting and further discussion with Chair Murphy. Chief BJ Jungmann serves as the MSFCA and MnFAC Legislative Chair; he will be happy to bring together fire service leadership to further discuss our efforts across the state. I trust that Mr. Zikmund will allow current fire service leaders the opportunity to speak on behalf of and advocate for the Minnesota fire service. (Ibid Page 1. Similarly, current/active city officials/leaders who are responsible for funding the fire department as well as underwriting the associated relief association should be able to speak on and advocate for those things that impact them.) I am personally fortunate to have over 21 years of fire service experience in both a volunteer and career capacity, including experience in a large combination department with over 150 volunteers in Connecticut. I understand firsthand the challenges that face the fire service and it is the driving force for my service as President of this great Association. Minnesota is fortunate to have many experienced, talented, and well-educated fire service leaders. I know our fire service leaders are committed to working together to ensure we can serve our communities with the utmost honor and pride. Respectfully,