Frequently Asked Questions
What is RECOM doing about looking into the city's promise to provide free health insurance premiums for retirees?
In 2005 the Board asked RECOM members to submit any written evidence of such a promise that they might have. None was ever submitted. Had the Board determined to pursue this matter further, legal action would have been required. RECOM does not have the treasury to sustain the cost of such a legal action, which could take years.
The lack of written documentation was the primary reason the Board of Directors determined that the matter is closed for RECOM. However, this does not preclude any retiree from taking any individual action the retiree feels is necessary on his or her own behalf.
I heard that the City is discontinuing retiree health insurance benefits. Is this true?
This question comes up on a regular basis. Here is how Donna Salemi, Assistant Human Resources Director answered the question on 5/4/2007.
At this time there is NO discussion or plans to discontinue retiree benefits. The new rules enacted by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) requires that the City post the amount of unfunded liability that "retiree benefits" will potentially cost the City of
Mesa in the year end financial statement.
Therefore, the City at this time is reviewing many options for future retirees and how these options may change the course of coverage for future retirees.
For current retirees, at this time, they can count on the annual costs for coverage to continue to rise and changes in plan structure, not just for the retirees but also active employees. Furthermore, any changes that may occur, all insureds will receive written documentation from the Employee Benefits Office -- the rumor is wrong.
Chris Brady, Mesa City Manager, spoke at the RECOM membership meeting on May 16 and essentially reiterated this statement.
Can my spouse join RECOM even though he or she did not work for the City of Mesa?
Yes, according to Article III of the Bylaws, spouses, widows, widowers or domestic partners of City of Mesa retirees are welcome to join RECOM. Also eligible are members of the deferred retirement program (D.R.O.P.)and employees who are within one year of retirement eligibility. Membership dues are $10.00 per year per person.