There has been movement on several fronts concerning our pension and the commissioners.
COLA
The COLA data was released last week and here are the numbers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics determined the COLA for the Greater Los Angeles/Long Beach area to be 3.1%. As a result, Tier 1 & 2 pension members will get the 3.1%. Tiers 3 & 4 will get 3%. Tiers 5 & 6 will get 3% with .1% going to the pension bank. There is no bank for tiers 3 & 4.
ELECTED ACTIVE POLICE COMMISSIONER
On February 28, 2025, the ballots for the elected, active police, commissioner were counted. Ballots were mailed to the 8,976 active police members of the LAFPP. Three-hundred ninety ballots were returned and counted. We are happy to report the incumbent active police pension commissioner, Brian Churchill, was re-elected with 88% of the votes.
ELECTED RETIRED FIRE COMMISSIONER
On March 14, 2025, the ballots for the elected, retired fire, commissioner were counted. Ballots were mailed to the 2,925 retired fire members of the LAFPP. One thousand – six ballots were counted. We are happy to report the incumbent retired fire pension commissioner, Ken Buzzell, was re-elected with 88% of the votes.
NEW MAYOR APPOINTED COMMISSIONER
Last week it was announced that Michael Lawson had resigned from the Board of Pension Commissioners. Over the last couple of years, we have developed a tremendous respect for Mr. Lawson. He had a quiet, calm demeanor and always had insightful questions for investment and banking representatives addressing the board. He will be missed.
Mayor Bass has appointed Carlton Jenkins to fill the remainder of Lawson’s term, and for the subsequent term ending June 30, 2030. Mr. Jenkins has an impressive education and resume. He has long served in business, banking, and investments. We look forward to working with Mr. Jenkins.