Double dipping: how to line your pockets, block opportunities for others and screw the retirement system (STRS) all at the same time

Akron Beacon Journal
Sat, Oct. 29, 2005

Coventry has clever retirement plan

Superintendent takes a few days off so district can save thousands

By Katie Byard
Beacon Journal staff writer

Coventry schools Superintendent Gary Zoldesy plans to retire and then resume his job days later.

The move would allow him to collect his state pension benefits in addition to a salary.

The district would save at least $15,000 a year, as it no longer would pay Zoldesy's health insurance, said Treasurer Lee Ann Weisenmiller.

Also, the school board anticipates negotiating a lower salary for Zoldesy, who would work fewer days, board President Robert Wohlgamuth said.

Zoldesy's annual base pay is about $93,000.

He would join a growing number of public educators who are benefiting from a 2000 change in state law that allows them to retire, then return to their jobs and receive a pension and salary simultaneously.

Some have criticized the practice as ``double dipping'' and say it means fewer job and promotion opportunities for younger educators.

Some school districts, however, say they can benefit.

``It allows districts like us who are trying to save every penny. We can continue with the positive leadership we have and still save money,'' Weisenmiller said Friday.

Wohlgamuth said, ``School districts these days have to look for any way possible to save money.''

Zoldesy, 58, could not be reached for comment Friday.

The rehired retirees say they have paid into the State Teachers Retirement System and are entitled to the benefits.

State law calls for a school board to have a public discussion before re-employing the retiree.

Coventry will discuss the issue at 6 p.m. Nov. 22 at Coventry Junior High School, 3257 Cormany Road.

Zoldesy plans to retire Dec. 31 and return to his job Jan. 5.

He joined Coventry in 2003 as the overwhelming choice of a committee of district employees and parents who interviewed nine semifinalists for the superintendency. He previously was business manager for Warrensville Heights schools.