Frequently Asked Questions
Is RECOM affiliated with the City of Mesa?
No, RECOM is an independent non-profit organization, 501(c)(4), formed to advocate on behalf of the general membership on retirement issues. RECOM receives no funding from the City. We do have representation on the City's Employee Benefits Task Force and Deferred Compensation Committee, advisory bodies to City management on benefit issues.
How many members belong to RECOM?
RECOM now has close to 700 retirees, spouses/partners and continues to grow.
Why should I join RECOM?
RECOM strives to keep members informed on matters pertaining to retirement issues. This includes such things as health insurance, state and federal legislation, and City policies and actions affecting retirement benefits. A monthly newsletter and general membership meeting are used to disperse information to its members.
I heard that the City is discontinuing current 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, 2008, 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.