Molly Janczyk: Many at STRS are truly caring about the membership

From Molly Janczyk, December 13, 2009
Subject: RE: OEA Credibility Factor of Zero

Thanks, Dennis. We know how OEA is and how they work and of course, the salaries THEY receive. I appreciate your thoughts and I certainly have not forgotten the OEA 5 Former Board members convicted of Ethics charges along with their former Exec. Direc and cohort retiree Board member, Endry.

When I read of OPERS being within their 30 yr unfunded liability but making changes NOW to ensure they stay there, I am so disheartened that STRS did not choose to do money saving measures to save health care long , long ago when they knew of impending troubles in the early 90's. Instead Dyer wanted out of the health care business and it was run down for retirees to save. Premiums, copays and out of pockets could have been incrementally increased, age for retirement could have been raised incrementally as well, legislation could have been sought instead of dismissed with OEA and former STRS Exec Direc. Dyer saying it was unnecessary.

Now, we are in trouble and change must occur as without change, STRS will not be able to pay. I have heard legislators tend to act when in crisis mode vs. in advance mode and it seems clear OEA and STRS did the same. The Board has changed but much of the thinking remains the same. There are good responsive people at STRS who have made themselves very available for interactive exchanges in give and take discussions. I do appreciate their efforts and feel many are truly caring about membership.

Molly J.