MASSACHUSETTS POLICE ASSOCIATION
This is the official website for the Massachusetts Police Association, representing police officers serving the people of the State of Massachusetts.

New Massachusetts Police Association 2009 Board
The newly elected MPA Board of Directors for 2009:
Front Left to Right - Joe Vieira, Lenny Baillargeon, Secretary Tim McCusker, Vice President Brian Gerardi, President Ken Scanzio,Treasurer John Christensen, Alissa Burke, Chaplain Fr. Paul Clifford

Rear Left to Right - James Machado, James Albert, Alan Andrews, Dan Chviruk, Kevin Burnham, Michael Murphy, Corrina Carter, Mark Evans, Bob DiLiddo, Tom Diozzi, Kevin Sullivan, Rich Courtney, Doug Mellis, Joe Fisher, Wayne Furtado, Tim King.

Budget Removes Arrest Power for Operating After Suspension
July 1, 2009 3:00PM -- By James Machado, Executive Director -Due to a techical glitch in an outside section of the budget, effective today, the ability to arrest operators for operating after suspensions has been limited, By removing the possibility of jail time for first time offenders the offense became a civil infraction thus not arrestable. There still is the ability to arrest those that have been CONVICTED prior and are now facing a second or subsequent offense

Quinn: $10 Million It Is
June 30, 2009 3:00PM -- By James Machado, Executive Director -The Governor signed the budget that includes $10 million for Quinn. He also approved the language which would limit participation to those police hired by today. and "accumulating points" by September 1, 2009.

In a supplemental budget he submitted he included language that would call for a study of the Quinn bill. Amongst the items to be studied are the number of officers with degrees, data comparing salaries by state, the impact on reducing lawsuits and related costs to state and local governments. It will also look at the impact on requiring a degree for all officers as a job requirement. He also added a provision to allow those officers on active military duty to not be held to the September 1, 2009 for enrolled in the program.

Governor to Release Budget Monday
June 28, 2009 3:00PM -- By James Machado, Executive Director -The governor will release the budget complete with veto's and amendments on Monday. He has already released his approval of the sales tax increase. We will be watching closely his decision on Quinn. We will post the information soon after it us released.

As you might imagine last week was muddied by many questions regarding pension reform and its effect on current employees. I would like to thank PERAC and their staff for responding to my many questions. Basically the contract that was in force on May 1, 2009 will remain in force until another agreement is signed under the evergreen clause. All benefits in that agreement continue to be considered regular compensation.

In addition, I have been told the EOPS has informed communities that there Quinn bill reimbursement for last year will be at 91%. Stay alert as communities digest and decide how to account for the shortfall. Any reductions in salary could also effect values of sick and vacation buybacks as well as pension calculations.

Quinn Bill funding Cut Of 80% Hits Cities, Towns
PAY INCENTIVES FOR COPS WITH DEGREES
June 29, 2009 3:00PM -- By Priyanka Dayal TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF-- -Hundreds of cities and towns will see another huge cut in local aid next fiscal year if the state slashes funding for a $100 million program that provides extra pay to police officers with college degrees.

The Police Career Incentive Pay Program, known as the Quinn Bill, has been in place since 1970. It pays officers based on their level of education — 10 percent more for an associate's degree, 20 percent for a bachelor's degree, and 25 percent for a master's or law degree. For college-educated police that can mean from $5,000 to $17,000 on top of their base pay.
read more --Telegram & Gazette

MassPolice Street News

Quinn Bill's Effect On Mass. Police

(NECN: Katie Daly, Worcester, Mass.) - The states budget for the fiscal year begins on Wednesday and it contains a cut in funding for the police career incentives pay program also known as the Quinn Bill.

The Quinn Bill has been in place in Massachusetts since 1970. Under the Quinn Bill police officers get a boost in pay for having college degrees.

Currently, the state splits the cost of the pay raises. But now, funding from the state is expected to be cut by 80 percent.

Retired Shrewsbury police chief Wayne Sampson is the executive director of the Massachusetts Police Association. He says that eliminating incentives for police officers will have negative long term effects on public safety.

For Worcester City Manager Michael O'Brien, it means coming up with an additional $2 million that the city cannot afford.

Donald Cummings is the president of the Worcester Police Officials Unions. He says the unions are open to negotiations.

As it stands now, Michael O'Brien says he has no choice but eventually to cut more jobs.

NECN's Katie Daly reports.

Chapter 21 of the Acts of 2009 - Pension Reform - FAQ's
June 26, 2009 3:00PM -- By James Machado, Executive Director -PERAC is pleased to announce that our Web Page now includes a section entitled "Chapter 21 of the Acts of 2009 Pension Reform - FAQ's". Listed are common questions and answers regarding the recently enacted pension reforms. This section can be accessed by going to the PERAC Web Page at www.mass.gov/perac and click on the title "Chapter 21 of the Acts of 2009 Pension Reform - FAQ's (pdf)". More questions and answers will be added over the next several days.

Perac Releases Calculation Guidance To Retirement Boards
June 23, 2009 3:00PM -- By James Machado, Executive Director - Perac has sent retirement boards the following memo in regards to pension calculation. The simplest interpretation is that everything remains the same until the end of the CBA in effect on May 1, 2009. After that, clothing amongst other items. Mentioned will be excluded. read more

New Quinn Language Limits Benefit
June 19, 2009 3:00PM -- By James Machado, Executive Director - We have now confirmed that language associated with the ten million dollars in funding will grandfather current employees and those hired prior to 7-1-09. This was the language adopted by the House in their version of the budget. This is the worst of both versions. The limited funding and the ending of the program for new hires and those not enrolled in college currently. We will be on the hill later today when the session begins expressing our disgust with the outcome. Stay tuned

Budget Debate To Begin Soon
June 18, 2009 3:00PM -- By James Machado, Executive Director - Sources indicate that budget debate could begin as soon as tomorrow. This time table would give the governor 10 days to issue his veto's before then beginning of fiscal 2010. Rumors continue on Quinn, funding and language. We continue to fight for the 25 million but reality and whispers from our allies seem to dictate otherwise. We will update you upon release of the budget.

Just a note. We have received several calls regarding Quinn and it's inclusion going forward in pension calculations. Let me be clear, Quinn is and will remain part of the pension calculation under the pension reform act. As a member of PERAC, I have been consulting with legal staff regarding their work. I have provided documentation as to the legislative intent. All during my negotiations on the bill Quinn was never in question.

Please note hearings on insurance matters/ GIC continue on Monday. Please check the hearing schedule which will be updated on Friday for a complete list of bills to be heard.

Governor Signs Pension Bill
June 16, 2009 3:00PM -- By James Machado, Executive Director - Today the Governor will sign the pension reform legislation passed last week by the legislature. This will be effective immediately. Although benefits included in the CBA in force on 5/1/09 will continue to be included in pension calculations, we suggest getting most stipends rolled into wages or longevity. This will avoid any surprises at retirement

The Committee on Public Service continued hearings yesterday regarding insurance. The Association went on record in opposition to H2509 which would allow municipalities to change health care coverage and carriers as long as cost remained the same without any negotiation. Not acceptable. This represents another attempt to weaken collective bargaining. The topic will continue next week.

Pension Reform, Not Over - Budget Due for Release
June 14, 2009 3:00PM -- By James Machado, Executive Director -Last weeks passage of pension reform legislation now awaits the governors signature. Although not devastating, it will call for some language changes to future collective bargaining agreement to assure all stipends and benefits are included in pension calculation. The last thing needed it for a retirement system to deny a benefit after years of inclusion. I anticipate there will be litigation on some of this in the near future. There are also some technical corrections needed in the disability calculation.
There is more work to be done.

That continues on Monday, when the blue ribbon commission meets. It hopes to issue and interim report by July 1st and a final report on September 1st as required by the legislature. A pension cap will be amongst the items they will address.

We also expect the conference committee report on the 2010 budget to be released. We are hearing anywhere from 10-17.5 million for Quinn. That would mean between 18 and 30 percent funding. We continue to lobby for the higher amount nut are not optimistic. We continue to explain that sudden decreases in funding could cause a rash of retirements.

Hearings continue this week with nothing controversial.

Pension Reform Bill
June 11, 2009 3:00PM -- By James Machado, Executive Director -Here is the pension reform bill that will be voted on today. Several things of note. The numbers on the left side of the page are line numbers for the bill. Notice there is an emergency preamble which means it will take effect immediately upon signing by the governor. Third, section 23 protects certain benefits included in the collective bargaining agreement in effect on May 1. 2009 and allows for inclusion as regular compensation until July 2012. We have discussed this in earlier reports. We thank the committee for addressing our concerns regarding contractual obligations. I am sure this will create many questions as well as law suits. It is difficult to imagine paying for a benefit for a number of years and then having it removed from your pension.

Senate, No. 2079
[Senate, June 10, 2009- Report of the committee of conference on the disagreeing votes of the two
branches, with reference to the House amendments to the Senate Bill providing responsible reforms in
the pension system (Senate, No. 2026) (amended by the House by striking out all after the enacting clause
and inserting in place thereof the text of House document numbered 4060]

Anull ACT PROVIDING RESPONSIBLE REFORMS IN THE PENSION SYSTEM
Whereas, The deferred operation of this act would tend to defeat its purpose, which is to reform
pension laws for public employees, therefore it is hereby declared to be an emergency law, necessary for the immediate preservation of the public convenience.

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Court assembled,
And by the authority of the same, as follows:
SECTION 1. Section 1 of chapter 32 of the General 1 Laws is hereby amended by
2 inserting after the word "fortyfive",
in line 399, as appearing in the 2006 Official Edition, the
3 following words:through
June 30, 2009.
4 SECTION 2. The definition of "Regular compensation" in said section 1 of said chapter
5 32, as so appearing, is hereby further amended by adding the following sentence:"
Regular
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts
__________________
IN THE YEAR OF TWO THOUSAND AND NINE
__________________
Compensation", during any period subsequent to June 30, 2009, shall 6 be compensation received
7 exclusively as wages by an employee for services performed in the course of employment for
8 his employer.
9 SECTION 3. Said section 1 of said chapter 32, as amended by section 15 of chapter 130
10 of the acts of 2008, is hereby further amended by adding the following definition:11
"Wages", the base salary or other base compensation of an employee paid to that
12 employee for employment by an employer? provided, however, that "wages" shall not include,
13 without limitation, overtime, commissions, bonuses other than costofliving
bonuses, amounts
14 derived from salary enhancements or salary augmentation plans which will recur for a limited or
15 definite term, indirect, inkind
or other payments for such items as housing, lodging, travel,
16 clothing allowances, annuities, welfare benefits, lump sum buyouts for workers’ compensation,
17 jobrelated
expense payments, automobile usage, insurance premiums, dependent care
18 assistance, 1time
lump sum payments in lieu of or for unused vacation or sick leave or the
19 payment for termination, severance, dismissal or any amounts paid as premiums for working
20 holidays, except in the case of police officers, firefighters and employees of a municipal
21 department who are employed as fire alarm signal operators or signal maintenance repairmen
22 money paid for holidays shall be regarded as regular compensation, amounts paid as early
23 retirement incentives or any other payment made as a result of the employer having knowledge
24 of the member’null retirement, tuition, payments in kind and all payments other than payment
25 received by an individual from his employing unit for services rendered to such employing unit,
26 regardless of federal taxability? provided further, that notwithstanding the foregoing, in the case
27 of a teacher employed in a public day school who is a member of the teachers' retirement
28 system, salary payable under the terms of an annual contract for additional services in such
29 school and compensation for services rendered by a teacher in connection with a school lunch
30 program or for services in connection with a program of instruction of physical education and
31 athletic contests as authorized by section 47 of chapter 71 shall be regarded as "regular
32 compensation" rather than as bonus or overtime and shall be included in the salary on which
33 deductions are to be paid to the annuity savings fund of the teachers' retirement system.
34 SECTION 4. Section 4 of said chapter 32 of the General Laws is hereby amended by
35 striking out, in lines 5 to 7, inclusive, as so appearing, the words ", that he shall be credited with
a year of creditable service for each calendar year during which he served as 36 an elected official?
37 and provided, further"
38 SECTION 5. Subdivision (1) of said section 4 of said chapter 32 is hereby amended by
39 striking out paragraphs (null) and (null ½), as so appearing, and inserting in place thereof the
40 following paragraph:41
(null) The service of a state, county or municipal employee employed or elected in a
42 position receiving compensation of less than $5,000 annually, which service occurs on or after
43 July 1, 2009, shall not constitute creditable service for purposes of this chapter.
44 SECTION 6. Section 5 of sai d chapter 32, as so appearing, is hereby amended by
45 striking out, in lines 69 and 70, the words ",except for elected officials subject to the provisions
46 of paragraph (null) of subdivision (2) of section ten,".
47 SECTION 7. Subdivision (2) of said section 5 of said chapter 32, as so appearing, is
48 hereby amended by adding the following paragraph:49
(e) A person who has been a member of 2 or more systems and who, on or after January
50 1, 2010, has received regular compensation from 2 or more governmental units concurrently
51 shall, upon retirement, receive a null retirement allowance to become effective on
52 the date of retirement that is equal to the sum of the benefits calculated pursuant to this section
53 as though the member were retiring solely from each system? provided, however, that
54 notwithstanding paragraph (null) of subdivision (8) of section 3, each system shall pay the
55 null retirement allowance attributable to membership in that system to the member?
56 and provided further, that this section shall not apply to any member who has vested in 2 or
57 more systems as of January 1, 2010.
58 SECTION 8. Section 7 of said chapter 32, as so appearing, is hereby amended by
59 striking out, in lines 69 to 73, inclusive, the words "or equal to seventytwo
per cent of the
60 average annual rate of his re gular compensation for the twelvemonth
period for which he last
61 received regular compensation immediately preceding the date his retirement allowance
62 becomes effective, whichever is greater? provided, however" and inserting in place thereof the
63 following words:?
provided, however, that if an individual was in a temporary or acting
position on the date such injury was sustained or hazard undergone 64 the amount to be provided
65 under this subdivision shall be based on the average annual rate of the individual’null regular
66 compensation during the previous 12month
period for which he last received regular
67 compensation=2 0immediately preceding the date such injury was sustained or such hazard was
68 undergone? provided, further",
69 SECTION 9. Section 10 of said chapter 32, as so appearing, is hereby amended by
70 striking out, in line 4, the words ", or fails of nomination or reelection".
71 SECTION 10. Said section 10 of said chapter 32, as so appearing, is hereby further
72 amended by striking out, in lines 7 to 9, inclusive, the words ", or fails of nomination or re73
election, or fails to become a candidate for nomination or reelection".
74 SECTION 11. Said section 10 of said chapter 32, as so appearing, is hereby further
75 amended by striking out, in lines 50 and 51, the words "fails of nomination or reelection,
or".
=0 D
76 SECTION 12. Said section 10 of said chapter 32, as so appearing, is hereby further
77 amended by striking out, in lines 72 to 77, inclusive, the words "one of the following
78 circumstances applies: (1) that the employee has failed of nomination or reelection,
(2) that the
79 employee has failed of reappointment, (3) that the employee’null office or position has been
80 abolished, or (4) that" and inserting in place thereof the following words::
(1) the employee
81 has failed of reappointment? (2) the employee’null office or position has been abolished? or (3).
82 SECTION 13. Said section 10 of said chapter 32, as so appearing, is hereby further
83 amended by striking out, in line 79, the word "six" and inserting in place thereof the following
84 figure:10.
85 SECTION 14. Subdivision (1) of section 11 of said chapter 32, as so appearing, is
86 hereby amended by adding the following paragraph:87
(d) If a member is entitled to a return of his accumulated total deductions and requests
88 such a return from the board on the prescribed form, then prior to the return of such
89 accumulated total deductions, the board shall contact the member’null employer to determine
90 whether the member owes an obligation to the employer under an employee benefit plan,
91 including a cafeteria plan established pursuan t to 26 U.S.C. section 125. If it is determined that
the member owes the employer under any such plan, the board shall not 92 return the accumulated
93 total deductions until it has received notice from the employer that the obligation has been
94 satisfied.
95 SECTION 15. Said chapter 32 is hereby further amended by inserting after section null
96 the following section:97
Section null. A retirement system subject to this chapter shall pay all benefits in
98 accordance with the requirements of section 401(a)(9) of the Internal Revenue Code and the
99 regulations in effect under that section, as applicable to a governmental plan as defined in
100 section 414(d) of the Internal Revenue Code.
101 SECTION 16. Subdivision (1) of section 13 of said chapter 32, as appearing in the 2006
102 Official Edition, is hereby amended by adding the following paragraph:103
(null) A retirement board may require a member entitled to receive a retirement allowance
104 to designate a financial institution to which shall be directly deposited any payments under any
105 annuity, pension or retirement allowance.
106 SECTION 17. Section null of said chapter 32 is hereby amended by striking out the
107 first paragraph, as so appearing, and inserting in place thereof the following paragraph:108
Any employee of the commonwealth, a city, town, district or other member unit of a
109 retirement system who is retired under20this chapter shall, upon the request of the retiring
110 authority paying such pension or retirement allowance, or otherwise may, by assignment made
111 in writing authorize the retiring authority paying such pension or retirement allowance to
112 withhold each month such amount as he may designate for the payment of subscriber premiums
113 applicable to any hospitalization, medical or surgical insurance in effect with a nonprofit
114 hospital and medical service corporation or insurance company at the time of his retirement. In
115 the event that the amount of a retiree’null pension check is insufficient to accommodate the entire
116 deduction and upon notice from the retirement board, the employer for whom the retiree last
117 worked and from whom he is retired shall20bill the retiree for the employee share of the
118 premiums.
SECTION 18. Section null of said chapter 32, as so appearing, 119 is amended by striking
120 out, in line 25, the figure "2028" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:2030.
121 SECTION 19. Said chapter 32 is hereby further amended by inserting after section null
122 the following section:123
Section null. (a) For the purposes of this section, "statutory adjustment to the
124 commonwealth pension liability" shall mean an adjustment that changes the benefits or
125 contributions of classes of members including, but not limited to, early retirement incentive
126 programs, costofliving
adjustments, the membership of those classes or any amendments to
127 chapter 32 that may change the actuarial liability of the commonwealth pension system.
128 (null) Upon request of a joint standing committee of the general court having jurisdiction
129 or upon request of the committee on ways and means of either branch, the actuary of the public
130 employee retirement administration commission shall conduct and prepare a review, evaluation
131 and financial impact of the statutory adjustment to the commonwealth pension liability, in
132 consultation with other relevant state agencies, and shall report to the committee within 90 days
133 of the request.
134 SECTION 20. Section 91 of said chapter 32 is hereby amended by striking out, in line
135 3, as appearing in the 2006 Official Edition, the words "or district," and inserting in place
136 thereof the following words:,
district or authority.
137 SECTION 21. Said section 91 of said chapter 32 is hereby further amended by
138 inserting after the word "authority", in line 84, the words ", including as a consultant or
139 independent contractor or as a person whose regular duties require that his time be devoted to
140 the service of the commonwealth, county, city, town, district or authority during regular
141 business hours.
142 SECTION 22. Chapter 182 of the acts of 2008 is hereby amended by striking out section
0A
143 111 and inserting in place thereof the following section:144
Section 111. There shall be a special commission to study the Massachusetts contributory
145 retirement systems. The commission shall consist of the secretary of administration and finance
146 or her designee? the state auditor or his designee? the executive director of the public employee
retirement administration commission or his designee? the executive 147 director of the state
148 retirement board or his designee? the executive director of the teachers’ retirement board or her
149 designee? 3 members of the house of representatives, 1 of whom shall be appointed by the house
150 minority leader? 3 members of the senate, 1 of whom shall be appointed by the senate minority
151 leader? and 6 members to be appointed by the governor, 1 of whom shall be a private citizen
152 who shall serve as chair of the commission and shall not be a member of any of the 106
153 contributory retirement systems, 2 of whom shall have professional experience in employee
154 benefits or in actuarial science, 1 of whom shall be a member of the Massachusetts Municipal
155 Association? 1 of whom shall be selected from a list of 3 candidates submitted by the president
156 of the Massachusetts AFLCIO
and 1 of whom shall be a member of the Retired State, County
157 and Municipal Employees Association of Massachusetts. The commission shall convene its first
158 official meeting not later than June 1, 2009.
159 The commis sion shall make a comprehensive study of the Massachusetts contributory
160 retirement systems. The study shall include, but not be limited to: contribution rates paid by
161 employers and employees? vesting periods? the weight given to age versus years of service in
162 the current system? the portability of benefits in the current system? the definition of regular
163 compensation including, but not limited to, whether all forms of compensation taxable under the
164 federal income tax code should constitute regular compensation? costoflivingadjustments
with
165 special attention paid to the cost of increasing the costoflivingadjustments
base? current and
166 future employee pension plans and contribution structures? termination allow ances pursuant to
167 section 10 of chapter 32 of the General Laws? group classification systems, including the
168 classification of department of correction employees under section null of said chapter 32?
169 capping annual pension benefits? penalties for pension fraud? eligibility and level of benefits for
170 employees who participate under 2 or more retirement systems? potential costs, savings or
171 benefits related to moving from a defined benefit retirement system to a defined contribution
172 retirement system for new employees, including a system that maintains eligibility for
173 employees to participate in the Social Security system? qualifications for credit for service
174 pursuant to section 4 of said chapter 32, including minimum compensation limits=2 0for officials to
175 be eligible for credit for service, and the cost of any recommendations the commission may
176 make.
The public employee retirement administration commission 177 shall conduct an actuarial
178 analysis to determine the costs of any recommendations made by the commission. The
179 commission shall prepare a report of its findings and recommendations, together with the
180 actuarial analysis and any recommendations for legislation, if any, to implement those
181 recommendations by filing the same with the clerks of the senate and house of representatives,
182 the chairs of the house and senate committee on ways and means and the senate and house
183 chairs of the joint committee on public service not later=2 0than September 1, 2009.
184 SECTION 23. Notwithstanding any special or general law to the contrary, any amount,
185 benefit or payment included in the definition of "regular compensation" by law or by regulation
186 prior to the effective date of this act and included in any applicable collective bargaining
187 agreement or individual contract for employment in effect on May 1, 2009, shall continue to be
188 included in the definition of "regular compensation" during the term of that collective
189 bargaining agreement or contract? provided, however, that any such amount, benefit or payment
190 received after June 30, 2012 shall not be considered regular compensation..
191 SECTION 24. Section 1 of this act shall take effect July 1, 2009.
192 SECTION 25. Section 5 of this act shall take effect July 1, 2009? provided, however,
193 that creditable service shall be granted for the service of any state, county or municipal
194 employee serving in a paid position earning less than $5,000 after July 1, 2009, if such service
195 is subject to a specified term as a result of an election, appointment or contract and the election,
196 appointment or contract occurred or was executed prior to July 1, 2009, and if the service is
197 otherwise eligible for creditable service under chapter 32 of the General Laws? and provided
198 further, that such creditable service shall be granted until the expiration of the term,
199 appointment or contract or July 1, 2012, whichever first occurs.
200 SECTION 26. Notwithstanding any general or spec ial law to the contrary and except as
201 expressly provided otherwise, this act shall apply to all members of retirement systems who
202 retire after July 1, 2009.

Pension Reform Punishes Current Employees
June 10, 2009 3:00PM -- By James Machado, Executive Director -I am currently at a press conference regarding pension reform in the Senate Reading Room. Although an official draft will be released later today and will be taken up tomorrow. At first glance it appears to punish current employees by making all changes effective July 1, 2009. Stayed tuned for details.

Current Employees Subject of Pension Negotiations
June 9, 2009 NOON -- By James Machado, Executive Director - With formal sessions scheduled for Thursday in both the House and Senate, we expect movement on either transportation and or ethics reform bills. There is a lesser chance that pension reform will be worked out by that time. The stumbling block appears to be current employees including elected officials. The House version would cover new employees and the Senate would also affect current employees. As for the regular compensation, we have been in constant contact trying to extend the items that would be considered regular compensation. We will keep you updated with any changes.

Yesterday, hearing continued with one bill of particular interest. H2634 would limit the ability of laid off officers from returning to their own community after accepting employment in another community. We spoke in detail with the chairs of the Public Service Committee and explained how this would penalize individuals for trying to provide for their families. They were sympathetic to our concerns. We also spoke about the recent civil service decisions regarding scoring of exams. There were several bills covering the subject and impressed upon them the problem banding causes in selecting acting personnel.

No new news on Quinn but plenty of rumors. We have spoken with conferees with the hope of securing the 25 million in the House budget. We would expect something late next week.

Patrick's New Budget Eliminates Quinn
June 4, 2009 NOON -- By James Machado, Executive Director - We learned earlier today that when the Governor releases his new budget, he will have zeroed out Quinn funding. In his original budget, he had included 42 million. This move is a continuance of his running against the legislature and with the media. With conference committee members preparing their final document, the Governor clearly wants to be viewed as the ultimate reformer. As we have been lobbying for the 25 million dollar figure in the House budget, Patrick's position puts additional pressure on the legislature. The sad part is that this administration has never reached out to try and find compromise. They simply surprise and kill.

null Indictment Takes Up State House Talk
June 3, 2009 NOON -- By James Machado, Executive Director - Yesterdays release of an indictment of former Speaker DiMasi took Deacon Hill by surprise. In what began as a normal day with Day of Portugal festivities taking over the House chamber and hearings of various committees taking place, the announcement changed the climate of the building. With some members making themselves available to the press while others chose to remain silent.

Earlier in the day Governor Patrick brought the detail issue center stage by announcing that flaggers would be manning various projects. Just another poke in the eyes of law enforcement. We continue to try to educate the public on the value of trained officers.

In another matter, the MPA offered testimony before the Judiciary Committee on H1367 A bill regarding security in Courthouses of the Commonwealth. This would standardize the carrying of firearms in all courts. Believe it or not, in certain courts, officers have been asked to surrender their firearms while acting in their official capacity. We feel this a danger and filed a similar bill but felt the issue important enough to offer support to a bill offered by Representative Fernandes of Milford.

Hearing continue tomorrow before the Public Safety Committee. See the hearing schedule for a complete list of bills.

Budget Conferees Announced
May 30, 2009 NOON -- By James Machado, Executive Director - This week was a quiet week as everyone tried to catch their breath from last weeks budget debate. In a sign that things will be decided quickly, members of the conference committee were named on Thursday. On the Senate side will be Senators Panagiotakos, Brewer and Knapik.The House designated Representatives Charles Murphy, L'Italien and deMacedo. We urge you to call their office and ask their support of the 25 million in funding for Quinn. We expect decisions to be made quickly and the final budget to be released by 6/20/09.

Hearing continue this week with Public Service meeting on 6/1/09 and Judiciary on 6/4/09. Check out the hearings page for a complete list of bills.

Senate Completes Budget
Appropriates $10 million, Calls for Study
May 22, 2009 NOON -- By James Machado, Executive Director -Last night the Senate completed debate on their version of the 2010 budget. The budget calls for a commission study on the impacts and value of the Quinn Bill. Language calls for a representative from the MPA. This was done solely because the MPA has statewide representation. It has been decided amongst the groups that we will send a professional labor person to take up our cause. This eliminates any finger pointing later on. As previously discussed on this page, it was funded at $10 million dollars. The House and Senate budgets will now be sent to conference where differences will be ironed out.

The Battle Continues
May 21, 2009 NOON -- By James Machado, Executive Director -Yesterday ended without resolution of Quinn funding. As did the House, the Senate will probably hold debate until the end. It also appears that the amendment filed by Senator Timilty will be withdrawn. He has been under immense pressure after not voting to support taxes. We have spoken with the Republican leadership in hopes of gaining support for increased funding. The bottom line is we are prepared for the worst. I have impressed upon the Senate their decisions will change public safety in Massachusetts forever. The stories of the number of retirements is staggering. Stay tuned.
In closing I leave you with a line that was going around yesterday amongst the police groups.

Patrick promised to put 1000 cops on the street, the problem is he didn't say they would be living there.We will update you throughout the day as events unfold. Debate scheduled to begin ar 10AM

Just When You Think It Can't Get Worse
May 20, 2009 NOON -- By James Machado, Executive Director -Early indications are that Senate Quinn language will be contain reduced funding. We continue to work to maximize funding. Rumors put the funding level at 10 million. This would be devastating. We continue to lobby for more money. There
will be language for a comprehensive study as well. Whatever the final proposal, it will go to conference where it will be matched against the House language of 25 million and grandfather for those enrolled by September 1, 2009.

Senate Passes Tax Increases, Restores Some Programs, GIC in Play
May 20, 2009 -- By James Machado, Executive Director - Last night the Senate agreed with the House and voted to increase the sales tax to 6.25% and extend that tax to alcohol. They also gave local governments the ability to raise revenues via hotel and meals taxes. These new revenues could approach one billion dollars. In securing the votes to increase taxes they earmarked where the increase revenues would go and the programs that would be restored. In total they earmarked over 600 million dollars and as you might guess Quinn was not among them. Shannon funding was restored to match the level in the House of 6.5 million dollars. They also passed legislation that would allow communities easier access to the GIC. This would change how insurance would be bargained.
Word filtered throughout the day and night that Quinn was in trouble. When I left the State House late last night there still was no firm commitment to a funding amount. Without a flood of calls today, funding will be reduced or slashed. We still hope to get at least the $25,000,000 requested in Amendment 385 (Senator Timilty ). We are being floated lesser numbers. We believe that there will be pressure to increase local aid which won't leave much for the remaining programs. While the meals and hotel tax will help some of the larger communities most will see reduced revenues without a local aid increase.
The decision on funding could come today so it is important to call your Senator. Debate is schedule to begin at 11AM.

Not a Done Deal
May 19, 2009 -- By James Machado, Executive Director - With Senate budget deliberations beginning a moments, we wish to relay a sense of urgency. You need to call your Senator and ask them to support funding of the Quinn Bill. To those who think that the Timilty amendment for $25,000,000 is a guarantee.... think again. Friends have relayed to us a sense of some in the caucus to not fund Quinn at all. One Senator according to our source said " this thing has gone on long enough". This is not acceptable. We are working hard at the State House but need your help. Senators may be reached by calling the main switchboard at 617 722-2000 of directly by using the MPA web page. Again click on services at top of page and senate contacts from the drop down. This will give a complete list with e-mails and direct phone lines.

Budget Amendments
May 17, 2009 -- By James Machado, Executive Director - We have listed below a preliminary list of  public safety amendments. As noted earlier the State House computer system crashed and we will not be able to verify all the amendments until Monday. Until then here is the latest with a brief explanation

EPS 385
Quinn Bill
Mr. Timilty moved that the bill amended, in Section 2, by inserting, after line item 8000-0038, the following new item:-
“8000-0040     For police career incentives to reimburse certain cities and towns for career incentive salary increases for police officers…..25,000,000”.

( funding with no language change)
EPS 406
POLICE COMPENSATION STUDY
Mr. Tarr moved that the bill be amended by inserting, after Section X, the following new Section:-
“SECTION XX.    There is hereby established a special commission to study the compensation of municipal police officers compensation and the members of the Massachusetts Department of State Police.  Said commission shall consider, but not be limited to, the types and amounts of compensation necessary to attract and maintain officers and troopers with appropriate levels of education, training and experience to provide efficient and effective law enforcement throughout the Commonwealth and the means by which to provide such compensation fairly and sustainability with regard to individuals, classes of individuals, and as between sources such as the Commonwealth and its municipal subdivisions.
In the conduct of said study the commission may consider the practices of other states, counties and law enforcement jurisdictions as well as the content of published research and scholarly journals.  The commission may, in the course of its efforts, hold one or more hearings, provided that public testimony shall be received at least one such hearing if any are held.
Said commission shall consist of members appointed by the Governor as follows: one member representing the Massachusetts Police Chiefs, one member representing each union of local and state police officers in the Commonwealth, five members representing municipal officials, at least one of whom shall be a mayor, the Secretary of Public Safety or his designee, whom shall serve as the chair of the commission, the Secretary of Administration and Finance or his designee, a member representing the citizens of the Commonwealth, and a member possessed of expertise in matters pertaining to law enforcement and employee compensation.
Said commission shall file a report detailing its findings, together with any legislative recommendations arising therefrom, not later than t welve months following the passage of this act.

(study of total compensation)

EPS 416
Police Career Incentives
Mr. Brewer moved that the bill be amended by inserting at the end of the bill the following new Section: -
            “Section ___. (a) There shall be a special commission on police career incentives consisting of 3 members of the senate, 1 of  whom shall be the senate chair of the joint committee on higher education, 1 of whom shall be the senate chair of the joint committee on public safety and 1 of whom shall be a member of the minority party who shall be appointed by the minority leader; provided, however, that 1 member of the senate shall be designated as co-chair of the commission; 3 members of the house of representatives, 1 of whom shall be the house chair of the joint committee on higher education, 1 of whom shall be the house chair of the joint committee on public safety and 1 of whom shall be a member of the minority party who shall be appointed by the minority leader; provided, however, that 1 member of the house shall be designated as co-chair of the commission; the secretary of the executive office of public safety, or his designee; the chancellor of higher education, or his designee; the president of the Massachusetts Association of Chiefs of Police, or his designee; a representative of the Massachusetts=2 0Fraternal Order of Police; a representative of the State Police Association of Massachusetts; the president of the Massachusetts Municipal Association, or his designee; and 3 persons to be appointed by the governor, 1 of whom shall have expertise in the field of criminal justice, 1 of whom shall be a municipal representative, and 1 of whom shall be the secretary of executive office of administrative and finance, or her designee.
            (b) The organizational session of the commission shall be convened by the co-chairs not later than 60 days after the effective date of this act whether or not all of the governor’s designees have been appointed.
            (c) The special commission shall make an investigation and study of the status of the career incentive pay program established pursuant to section 108L of chapter 41 of the General Laws including, but not limited to: (1) an assessment of the number of police officers with higher education degrees; (2) an investigation of salaries paid to officers utilizing the incentive program as compared with neighboring states’ salaries and incentive programs; (3) an assessment on the impact said program has had on decreasing the number of law suits against police officers and municipalities; (4) the cumulative cost to state and local governments in terms of increased operating costs for wages and impact on state and municipal pension liability; (5) an assessment on the current incent ives provided to officers and a determination of how wages for officers with higher education degrees would be affected without the incentive program; (6) the impact of requiring a higher education degree for all police officers as an job requirement; (7) a comparison of the wage benefits conferred by the incentive program with the increase in earning power expected to be experienced by all person in the Commonwealth as a result of higher educational attainment; and (8) any other matters that the special commission considers relevant to the fulfillment of its mission and purpose.
            (d) The board of higher education and the executive office of public safety shall provide staff and other resources as the commission and those agencies consider appropriate. The special commission shall make its final report and recommendations, if any, together with drafts of legislation necessary to carry those recommendations into effect, by filing the same with the joint committee on public safety not later than January 1, 2010. The special commission may make such interim reports as it considers appropriate.

(specific Quinn study.   NOTE:  FOP states they were not consulted on this amendment even though they are designated)

EPS 417
Community Policing
Mr. Timilty moved that the bill be amended, in Section 2, by inserting after item 8000-0000 the following new item
“8000-0010 For community po licing grants to be administered by the executive office of public safety and security; provided, that no such grants shall be awarded to the department of state police; provided further, that any community that received funds through this item in fiscal year 2008 shall receive 25 per cent that amount in fiscal year 2010; provided further, that grants shall only be expended on items that are related to community policing activities, programs, purchases or construction; provided further, that grant funds shall not be expended on food and beverages, recruit training academy tuition, salaries and benefits for non-community policing personnel and payments for non-related overtime; and provided further, that not later than March 16, 2010, the executive office of public safety and security shall submit a report to the house and senate committees on ways and means detailing the amount of grants awarded to these grant recipients and descriptions of these grants ................................................$5,337,759”

(funds at the same level as House budget)

EPS 428
QUINN BILL
Mr. Tarr moved that the bill be amended by inserting, after Section X, the following new Section:-
“SECTION XX. Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, the Quinn Bill shall be phased out over the next five years.”

(pretty straight forward)
EPS 431
FAIRLY ELIMINATING THE QUINN BILL
Mr. Tisei moved that the bill be amended, in Section 2, by inserting after line item 8000-0038 the following line item: -
“8000-0040     For police career incentives to reimburse certain cities and towns for career incentive salary increases for police officers; provided, however, that regular full-time members of municipal police departments hired on or after July 1, 2009 shall not be eligible to participate in the career incentive pay program established pursuant to section 108L of chapter 41 of the General Laws; provided further, that any current regular full-time member of a municipal police department who has not started accumulating points pursuant to said section 108L of said chapter 41 of the General Laws, as of September 1, 2009, shall not be eligible to participate in the career incentive pay program established pursuant to said section 108L of said chapter 41 of the General Laws; and provided further, that any current regular full-time member of a municipal police department who has begun to accumulate points pursuant to said section 108L of said chapter 41 of the General Laws as of September 1, 2009 shall be allowed to accumulate the only the  number of points provided by said section 108L of said chapter 41 of the General Laws for which degree they are currently pursuing…………$50,202,122”

(grandfathers current members but freezes them at whatever degree they have or enro lled in. In other words someone in the bachelors program in September would never be allowed to receive compensation for a masters degree. This language is similar to House budget but contains additional funding.)

Quinn Bill Letter Draft
May 15, 2009 -- By James Machado, Executive Director - We have listed below in draft form a letter that we hope will be signed by representatives of all the police organizations. We hope this will illustrate to the Senate that police are unified on this issue. The final draft will be distributed to all Senators on Monday. Don't worry we'll correct the grammar and capitalization. This is meant for information only. Thanks to Bill Walsh of the Boston Superiors for crafting the letter.

PROTECT PUBLIC SAFETY IN YOUR COMMUNITY!

Dear Senator
We write to you on behalf of police labor organizations who represent a total of nearly 20,000 members and families, in support of restoration of full funding for the Quinn Bill. Elimination or reduction of this funding will severely impact public safety for your constituents. The expertise of trained police officers is most critical in these turbulent times when higher demand for police services are taking place resulting from the life stresses this recession has caused in peoples lives. Loss of this benefit will severely tax law enforcement's ability to manage complex social issues like domestic violence, child abuse, and crimes against persons and property which are all on the rise.

This benefit was collectively bargained by officers across the state, and significant concessions were made through the process to obtain this standard for our members. To interrupt this benefit will create contractual chaos for all involved. Local aid funds will be strained as many municipalities will have to make up for the lost Quinn reimbursement by funding this contractual benefit by taking from other programs. Senior officers facing dramatic reductions in their regular compensation will be forced to retire immediately creating an untenable situation in law enforcement in Massachusetts. They will have to be replaced by officers on overtime basis to maintain a minimum s taffing level, at a greater cost. There will be no funds to hire, train or promote successors. The impact will be felt for many years.

As a result of the Quinn bill, policing in the Commonwealth is a profession. The private sector generally pays an individual commensurate with their education. Teachers are compensated for obtaining higher education. Should public safety demand no less? Our standards have been raised as the job has become more complex. Police officers on a daily basis deal with a multitude of complex social issues and often must make split second decisions on how to protect the public. On any given day we are domestic violence counselors, child abuse first reporters, legal experts, drug and alcohol counselors, interpreters of court orders in custody and visitation situations and legal experts and advisors. It is exactly for these reasons why maintaining a trained, educated, properly supervised police force is critical to protect public safety. In trying economic times, the public deserves the best quality services we can offer..

The question, simply stated is not how we can afford the Quinn bill, but rather how can we not afford to maintain public safety in our communities?. It is for the foregoing reasons that we join in unity and ask your support and your vote to protect public safety by continuing to allow us to attract and retain educated and qualified public servants.

Amendments Filed

Despite a cliche in the State House computer system 675 amendments were filed to the Senate budget. These will be numbered and released. We ask you to once again contact your Senator and ask them to co-sponsor the following amendments. Both concern Quinn Bill. An amendment filed by Senator Timilty would provide $25,000,000 in funding for Quinn ( same figure as the House budget). The second is filed by Senator Kennedy of Brockton which provides for a study commission to examine the value and viability of the Quinn Bill. We should note that Senator Brewer has filed a similar amendment. We were not made aware of this until it was too late and had no input in it's crafting. We certainly appreciate the intent and hope we can gain his support for our language. We expect to get the numbers on these amendments late this evening or early tomorrow.

For complete Senate contact information, click on the service drop down at the top of the web page and click on Senate contacts. This will provide you with e-mail and direct phone line contact. The deadline for co-sponsors is 10AM on Tuesday. We urge you to contact them as soon as possible. We hope as we deliver our letter on Monday, we are told that they are hearing from you. We will only be successful with your full support.

Cops take fight to wake
Lobby for Quinn Bill at service for pol’s wife
May 16, 2009 -- By Hillary Chabot | Saturday,| http://www.bostonherald.com
Cops stepped up the “networking” on the Quinn Bill yesterday, buttonholing top pols at a funeral home.

The day after a cop was suspended for ticketing more than a dozen cars at the State House in a potential case of political payback, a Medford police officer cornered Gov. Deval Patrick about the police higher-education perks at the wake of state Rep. Paul Donato’s wife.

“I was at (a) wake earlier this afternoon and as I was coming out one of the Medford police officers took me aside and said, ‘Can you help us out with the Quinn Bill?’ ” Patrick said.

Medford police Chief Leo Sacco defended the officer, saying he himself hit up state Sen. Pat Jehlen (D-Somerville) about the Quinn Bill in line outside the same wake.

“I wouldn’t support it, if it was inside the funeral home, but if it was outside and he was respectful, it’s fair game,” said Sacco, adding people often discuss business at wakes. “Whether it be a wake or a banquet, it’s a networking opportunity. You talk about the issues of the day.”

Patrick said cops have also asked him to spare the education bonuses on talk radio and at a Boston event Thursday night.

“I don’t feel threatened, but we have the conversation,” he said. “My pushback is this idea may have been right and well-intended, but we’re at a point now where we have to ask ourselves about everything.”

A Boston police captain apologized to state senators yesterday for Boston police officer John Mullan’s Wednesday afternoon ticketing spree. Mullan slapped orange surprises on 15 cars around the State House, many of which were legally parked, just hours after senators filed a budget eliminating state funding for the Quinn Bill.

“I want to assure that the Boston Police Department will investigate this matter and discipline the officer if the facts and evidence support the allegations made,” wrote Capt. Detective Mark Hayes, commander of the BPD’s internal affairs division. “I don’t want you or your staff members to feel threatened or intimidated by any Boston police officer.”

There is growing evidence of blue disgruntlement as cops watch lawmakers carve up what used to be political sacred cows. Last fall, officers frustrated by Patrick’s recent decision to hire civilian flaggers for some road details annoyed drivers when they tied up traffic at a construction site in Woburn.

“First it was the detail issue, now it’s the Quinn Bill. A lot of us are wondering what’s next,” Sacco said. “There isn’t a police officer in the commonwealth who isn’t concerned.”

Police Chiefs May Retire If Quinn Bill Is Cut
May 15, 2009 -- Reporting: Beth Germano BOSTON (WBZ) — Should the Quinn Bill be eliminated to save the state money?

It's one of the most controversial topics on Beacon Hill, the Quinn Bill that provides salary hikes for police officers with college educations.

The state price tag has been $51 million, but lawmakers are looking to drastically reduce that amount in tough economic times.

The House budget proposes less than half that amount, while the Senate version offers no funding at all.

The Massachusetts Police Chiefs Association fears a mass exodus of officers from top to bottom if the Quinn Bill is cut.

Amendments Filed
May 15, 2009 -- By James Machado, Executive Director - Despite a cliche in the State House computer system 675 amendments were filed to the Senate budget. These will be numbered and released. We ask you to once again contact your Senator and ask them to co-sponsor the following amendments. Both concern Quinn Bill. An amendment filed by Senator Timilty would provide $25,000,000 in funding for Quinn ( same figure as the House budget). The second is filed by Senator Kennedy of Brockton which provides for a study commission to examine the value and viability of the Quinn Bill. We should note that Senator Brewer has filed a similar amendment. We were not made aware of this until it was too late and had no input in it's crafting. We certainly appreciate the intent and hope we can gain his support for our language. We expect to get the numbers on these amendments late this evening or early tomorrow.

For complete Senate contact information, click on the service drop down at the top of the web page and click on Senate contacts. This will provide you with e-mail and direct phone line contact. The deadline for co-sponsors is 10AM on Tuesday. We urge you to contact them as soon as possible. We hope as we deliver our letter on Monday, we are told that they are hearing from you. We will only be successful with your full support.

Senate Budget Eliminates Quinn
May 13, 2009 -- By James Machado, Executive Director -The Senate budget released today does not contain any funding for the Quinn Bill. We will be filing amendments in conjunction with other police groups in hopes of restoring funding. We also hope to substitute language which would allow a study of the long term viability of Quinn. We hope to show the value of the program and an educated law enforcement officer. Once amendments are filed we will be asking you to once again contact your Senator to solicit their support.

Senate looks to Eliminate Quinn
May 13, 2009 -- By James Machado, Executive Director -When the Senate budget is released later today we expect it will eliminate Quinn funding. Due to be released today, we have been told by several sources to expect an attack. We have repeatedly explained the impact of such immediate cuts. We plan on filing an amendment to keep the program afloat.

Ironically when I approached a Senator to discuss the topic he relayed the following story. He stated that he had been at a speaking engagement in a small town in central Massachusetts and was attempting to get back to Boston for the session. He stated the road to get on the highway was closed due to construction. Seeing a police officer on the detail standing next to a detour sign he thought to ask for directions. As he approached the officer berated him for continuing towards a road that was clearly under construction. When the Senator explained he only wanted directions the officer was no more understanding. Incidents like this are what makes our jobs more difficult. I know this is a small minority but one that reflects on all of us.And for those who might say just a whining politician let me add that this Senator was a 20 year law enforcement officer. He chuckled to me as he relayed the story but I could see that one of our staunchest defenders felt it difficult to defend the indefensible.

Municipal Relief Package Hearing
May 12, 2009 -- By James Machado, Executive Director -Yesterday Senator Eldridge chaired a committee hearing on municipal relief. The hearing which lasted over 4 hours brought out municipal managers from across the state. All sang the same tune. What continues to be the most controversial proposal concerns health insurance and the GIC. Under the current law 70% majority is required to enter the GIC. In this new proposal after 150 days would decide if a local plan meets the benchmark of the GIC plan.If they were to rule that the GIC plan were cheaper the municipality could join the GIC. Should the community disagree with the mediator and choose to stay in their current plan, their local aid appropriation would be cut by an amount equal to the increased cost of the local plan. Basically pay me now or pay me later. Stay tuned as an additional hearing is scheduled for Hudson town hall on Friday at 10AM

Busy Week Ahead
May 11, 2009 -- By James Machado, Executive Director -This week will provide the road map for the future of public service. On Monday, the conference committee on pension reform will meet in hopes of finalizing a bill. Late last week, Governor Patrick sent a " confidential" letter somewhat threatening them to make changes effective immediately. We hope the legislature will realize that in some cases this is not possible. Last week, I met with the conferees and staff to impress upon them that payments have been made for certain benefits and that that must be honored. I have been told the message resonated with the group. We'll have to wait and see.

Legislative Hearings continue with the Public Service Committee meeting on Monday at 1PM and the Municipal Government Committee schedule to take up a local relief package on Tuesday. We will be testifying on the bill which provides for local taxes, pension appropriation relief and a mechanism to go into the GIC.

Wednesday, the Senate will release their version of the 2010 budget. With revenues falling since the House crafted their budget, we expect this version to be significantly reduced. Any amendments to the budget must be submitted by Friday.

Conference Committee to Decide Pension Reform
Municipal Relief Package Unveiled
May 7, 2009 -- By James Machado, Executive Director -Midday today the State House will be buzzing with two important issues to be discussed. After spending most of Wednesday meeting with conferees regarding pension reform, we are hopeful of a positive outcome. The message has been clear and simple. Don't catch minnows in a net meant for whales. Translated don't let the little guy suffer for the abuses of the few. Our real concern involves the definition of regular compensation. The Senate language was respectful of collective bargaining and allowing items included in CBA's to be part of pension calculations. The House excluded certain items effective 6/30/09. We have received positive responses and hope that things like clothing and other small stipends will not be excluded. Again to quell the rumors, holidays will continue to be included as well as longevity and educational incentives. Stay tuned for an update after today's meeting. We expect consensus to be reached within days and a bill to be released shortly after.

Also today the municipal relief bill will be unveiled. Early reports included local option taxes on lodging food and utility poles among others. It also provides a reduced pension appropriation over the next two years. This has been one of our priorities as well as for my community. In my department ( Fall River) we lost nearly 50 bodies. Some have returned to work but this provision could save the city over 3 million dollars and allow more of police to return to work. It would also be valuable in a place like Lawrence where the mayor has proposed employees take 40 days without pay. With the exception of new taxes nothing will impact the communities more. Hearings on the bill are scheduled for Tuesday in the State House and later in the week a road show in Hudson.

I would also like to recognize President Scanzio who accompanied by members of MASSCOP, Wednesday, presented members of the Senate with a detailed report regarding the benefits of the Quinn bill. He introduced faculty of Curry College to many Senators in hopes of getting their support. I promised to take up that effort after today's pension debate. On that note there is was is being called a unity meeting next week in Malden to bring all police groups together to form a strategy in advancing Quinn bill appropriations in the Senate. Once details are finalized they will be posted on the web

	Treasurer's Ledger It's not always all about the money. Well, for our Treasurer John Christensen, it probably is. Check in and see what's going on in his office read more -- John Christensen

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