Mike Nehf responds to retirees

Linda Meinelt to Larry and Leslie Snyder, June 23, 2009

Great response to him. Notice in his letter he says everyone will be involved in the solution but does not say that STRS retirees will be involved -- he lists himself and the employees! Thought it was interesting also that he states work hours have been increased -- as one of the letter writers said -- who knew the employees were not working a 40 hr. week!

Linda

From Larry and Leslie Snyder, June 23, 2009
Subject: Re: your email

Dear Mr. Nehf,

We were surprised and delighted that you responded to our email and that it didn't just get thrown into a pile of complaints along with the masses of other emails you are certainly receiving.

We are, however, disappointed with your unwillingness to stop this year's PBI's while suggesting that STRS is "continuing to maintain our current levels and quality of member services." I just read the information sent by "news@lists.strsoh.org" that lists all sorts of reductions to the services of retirees and active teachers without mentioning any cost cutting in doing the business at the office. You and your staff should make some sacrifices like those facing the people you serve...certainly, that would make the reductions more palatable to active and retired teachers.

Please try to level the playing field for all those involved -- employees, retirees and active teachers. Again, we appreciate your responding even if the message you sent is not one with which we can agree.

Kind regards,
Larry and Leslie Snyder

From Mike Nehf, June 23, 2009

Thank you both for your thoughtful email concerning keeping STRS Ohio viable. You raise many questions and suggestions, most of which have been initiated. For example, salaries have been frozen, employee head counts have been capped, performance based incentives will be paid in 2010 and beyond only if the fund earns positive returns, work hours have been increased, and further cost reductions are in the plans – all while continuing to maintain our current levels and quality of member services. I cannot address all of your questions and comments specifically, as the Board is considering many of these as we write. We understand that our membership is concerned about the viability of the pension and health care plans, and we are studying ways in which to make this happen. Sample solutions have been presented to the Board over the last several months. Everyone will be asked to contribute to the solution, including, of course, myself and our STRS Ohio employees. Thank you, again, for your comments and questions. I wish you both and your daughter the very best.

Respectfully,
Mike Nehf