HMEPS would like to address the misleading statements being made in new TV and radio ads paid for by Texans for Local Control, an ideological, corporate-funded group. This group claims to support “local control” of the City’s pensions, but, in fact, argues only for total control by City officials who would be able to implement changes without negotiation. This control would extend to every aspect of pension systems, which would make HMEPS vulnerable to the kind of pension-plundering that was common in the private sector prior to ERISA legislation.
The television ad features a disgruntled former advisor to Houston Mayor Annise Parker who clearly is pushing an anti-pension agenda with scare tactics and irresponsible rhetoric. The ad also makes meaningless comparisons to Detroit. Houston has a growing population and tax base, while Detroit has been in decline for decades.
These ads urge viewers to ask municipal candidates to sign a pledge, but we want to assure our members that this so-called “pledge” is meaningless. There is nothing on the upcoming November 3rd election ballot regarding the local pension systems.
HMEPS welcomes the opportunity to engage in thoughtful and intelligent conversations regarding pensions, but these ads do nothing useful and only seek to mislead the public about the City’s pensions.
HMEPS has worked with the City of Houston through the meet and confer process to enact reforms that have strengthened the System for the long term, and we will continue to work responsibly and diligently to protect our participants’ hard-earned benefits.
Sincerely,
Sherry Mose
Chairman