July 17, 2012

RE: “Improper Participation in the Pension System” Comptroller’s Report Released

Dear Mayor:

Earlier today, the Office of the State Comptroller released a report entitled “Improper Participation by Professional Service Providers in the State Pension System.”

We have posted links to the Comptroller's new Report (http://www.njslom.org/letters/Pensions_Report-7-17-12.pdf) and the accompanying Press Release (http://www.njslom.org/letters/071712-PR-Pensions.pdf ) on our web site.

Governor Christie has asked DCA Commissioner Richard Constable III to require that municipal auditors ensure compliance with the statutory requirement that prohibits municipalities from enrolling contracted professionals into the pension system.  Governor Christie has also directed the Division of Local Government Services to include, as part of the municipal Best Practices questionnaire for this year, an item asking municipal CFOs to certify that the municipality has complied with the law’s requirements.

We urge all of our member municipalities to read the report and review their employees who receive Pension Benefits to ensure compliance with the law.

If you have any questions, please contact Lori Buckelew at 609-695-3481, ext. 112 or lbuckelew@njslom.com

Very truly yours,

William G. Dressel, Jr.
Executive Director