HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES - 11172015 - D.10RECOMMENDATION(S):
ACCEPT written acknowledgment by the County Administrator (Chief Executive Officer) that he understands the
current and future costs of the Retirement benefit changes for employees represented by the California Nurses'
Association and Safety employees in specific units of Probation Management, Fire Management and AFSCME 512,
as determined by the County’s actuary in Actuarial Reports dated September 8, 2015 and October 12, 2015
respectively.
FISCAL IMPACT:
As shown in the valuations and the chart below, the result of the retirement changes described herein for employees
would result in a savings of annual pensionable pay with the first hire in year one. Future valuation results will change
with demographic and cost updates. These projections do accurately measure the direction of the proposed plan
change costs. Over time, as more employees are hired into the new PEPRA tier at a 2% COLA, the savings will
become more significant. It should be noted that the figures presented in this report represent the savings associated
only with the negotiation of a 2% COLA. The actual savings from both the new State law and the negotiated change
beginning January 1 is the savings between the new PEPRA tier with a 2% COLA and Tiers A and III with a 3%
COLA.
APPROVE OTHER
RECOMMENDATION OF CNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION OF BOARD
COMMITTEE
Action of Board On: 11/17/2015 APPROVED AS RECOMMENDED OTHER
Clerks Notes:
VOTE OF SUPERVISORS
AYE:John Gioia, District I Supervisor
Candace Andersen, District II Supervisor
Mary N. Piepho, District III Supervisor
Karen Mitchoff, District IV Supervisor
Federal D. Glover, District V Supervisor
Contact: Lisa Driscoll, County Finance
Director, 335-1023
I hereby certify that this is a true and correct copy of an action taken and entered on the minutes
of the Board of Supervisors on the date shown.
ATTESTED: November 17, 2015
David J. Twa, County Administrator and Clerk of the Board of Supervisors
By: June McHuen, Deputy
cc: Ann Elliott, Employee Benefits Manager, County Counsel
D.10
To:Board of Supervisors
From:David Twa, County Administrator
Date:November 17, 2015
Contra
Costa
County
Subject:Government Code 7507 - Chief Executive Acknowledgement of Future Costs of Benefits for Employees Represented
by CNA and Other Specific Units
BACKGROUND:
At its meetings of August 15, 2015 and November 10, 2015, the Board of Supervisors accepted actuarial
valuations of future annual costs of negotiated and proposed changes to Other Post Employment Benefits, as
provided by the County's actuary in letters dated September 8, 2015 and October 12, 2015. The Board was
informed that Government Code, Section 7507 requires with regard to local legislative boards, that the future
costs of changes in retirement benefits or other post employment benefits as determined by the actuary, shall be
made public at a public meeting prior to the adoption of any changes in public retirement plan benefits or other
post employment benefits. The September 8, and October 12, 2015 reports fulfilled that requirement.
Government Code, Section 7507 also requires that if the future costs (or savings) of the changes exceed one-half
of 1 percent of the future annual costs of the existing benefits for the body, an actuary shall be present to provide
information as needed at the public meeting at which the adoption of a benefit change shall be considered. An
actuary will be present at the meeting of November 17, 2015.
And finally, Section 7507 requires that upon the adoption of any benefit change to which the section applies, the
person with responsibilities of a chief executive officer in an entity providing the benefit, however that person is
denominated, shall acknowledge in writing that he or she understands the current and future cost of the benefit as
determined by the actuary.
As the County Administrator (chief executive officer) and by approving this Board Order, I acknowledge in
writing that I understand the current and future cost of the benefit changes presented to you today, as determined
by the actuary and contained in the September 8, and October 12, 2015 letters from Buck Consultants (County's
actuary).
CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION:
Delayed implementation of the COLA reduction, resulting in loss of savings.
CHILDREN'S IMPACT STATEMENT:
None.
ATTACHMENTS
7507 Report for CNA dated September 8, 2015
7507 Report for Probation Management dated October 12, 2015
7507 Report for Fire Management dated October 12, 2015
7507 Report for AFSCME 512 Safety dated October 12, 2015
September 8, 2015
Ms. Lisa Driscoll
Finance Director
Contra Costa County
651 Pine Street, 10th floor
Martinez, CA 94553
Re: Complying with California Government Code Section 7507 Regarding Changes to Pension
Benefits of California Nurses Association
Dear Ms. Driscoll:
We have been asked to estimate the effect on the County’s current and future unfunded actuarial
accrued liabilities and Annual Required Contributions resulting from a new tier of benefits in the
structure of Assembly Bill 340 (AB340) with a 2.00% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) effective on
January 1, 2016 or, alternatively, effective July 1, 2016. Both dates are used as potential effective
dates for the proposed change for the members of California Nurses Association. We are comparing
this benefit structure to the AB340 structure with a 3.00% COLA which the plan currently provides.
Because this change affects only future employees, it will have no effect on the unfunded actuarial
accrued liabilities of Contra Costa County Employees’ Retirement Association (CCCERA) as of the
effective dates. We show the cost impacts on the charts below per one hire per year (results are
averages of one male and one female). The costs shown are combined employee and employer
normal costs. By going from a 3.00% COLA to a 2.00% COLA, the County will realize a savings. The
savings are equal to the excess of the normal cost for an AB340 structure with a 3.00% COLA over
the normal cost of an AB340 structure with a 2.00% COLA.
We have expressed the savings in annual dollar amounts and as percentages of covered payroll for
calendar years 2016, 2017 and 2018 (2019 is also included for the July 1, 2016 effective date). These
results are merely illustrative and the actual impact will depend upon the actual demographic
characteristics of the employees as well as the pattern of future hiring. On the exhibit for the July 1,
2016 effective date, results shown for 2016 are for the six month period July 1 through December 31.
Buck Consultants, LLC
353 Sacramento Street
Suite 800
San Francisco, CA 94111
tel 415.392.0616
fax 415.392.3991
Ms. Lisa Driscoll
September 8, 2015
Page 2
Future actuarial measurements may differ significantly from the current measurement presented in this
report due to such factors as: plan experience different from that anticipated by the economic and
demographic assumptions; increases or decreases expected as part of the natural operation of the
methodology used for these measurements; and changes in plan provisions or applicable law. Due to
the limited scope of this report, an analysis of the pote ntial range of such future measurements has not
been performed.
The methods and assumptions used are the same as those used in the December 31, 2014, actuarial
valuation of CCCERA. The demographic as well as the economic assumptions with respect to
investment yield, salary increase and inflation set forth in the December 31, 2014 valuation have been
based upon a review of the existing portfolio structure as well as recent and anticipated experience.
Information on our new entrant profile is given in Note 2 of the enclosed projections.
The report was prepared under the supervision of David Kershner and Stephen Drake, who are both
Enrolled Actuaries and Members of the American Academy of Actuaries. David Kershner is a Fellow
of the Society of Actuaries and Stephen Drake is an Associate of the Society of Actuaries. Both meet
the qualification Standards of the American Academy of Actuaries to render the actuarial opinions
contained in this report. This report has been prepared in accordance with all Applicable Actuarial
Standards of Practice. We are available to answer any questions on the material contained in the
report, or to provide explanations or further details as may be appropriate.
Sincerely,
David J. Kershner, FSA, EA, MAAA Stephen Drake, ASA, EA, MAAA
Principal and Consulting Actuary Director, Retirement Actuary
Ms. Lisa Driscoll
September 8, 2015
Page 3
California Nurses Association – January 1, 2016
Notes:
1. The methods and assumptions used to determine the savings were the same as thos e used for the
December 31, 2014 valuation.
2. The County is assumed to hire one active employee at January 1 of each projection year (we have averaged
results for one male and one female). The annual salary at entry is assumed to be $100,400, $103,900, and
$107,500 for the 2016, 2017, and 2018 hires, respectively. The age at entry for new hires is assumed to be
39. These assumptions were provided by the County.
3. The maximum compensation limit for the retirement benefit is assumed to be $120,870 for 2016 and it is
expected to grow 2.00% per year.
4. In the AB340 benefit structure, the multiplier is 2% at 62. The multiplier increases by 0.1% for ages above
62 to a maximum of 2.5% at 67. It decreases by 0.1% for ages below 62 to a minimum of 1.0% at 52.
Calendar Year 2016 2017 2018
Valuation Pay $90,300 $184,200 $281,600
Annual Cost
AB340 with 3.00% COLA
i) $$12,200 $24,700 $37,600
ii) % of Pay 13.5%13.4%13.4%
AB340 with 2.00% COLA
i) $$11,000 $22,200 $33,700
ii) % of Pay 12.2%12.1%12.0%
Saving/(Cost)
i) $$1,200 $2,500 $3,900
ii) % of Pay 1.3%1.3%1.4%
$0
$10,000
$20,000
$30,000
$40,000
$50,000
2016 2017 2018
Saving/(Cost)AB340 with 3.00% COLA AB340 with 2.00% COLA
Contra Costa County -AB340 with 3.00 COLA vs. AB340 with 2.00 COLA
Annual Cost by Plan Year ($)
0.0%
5.0%
10.0%
15.0%
2016 2017 2018
Saving/(Cost)AB340 with 3.00% COLA AB340 with 2.00% COLA
Annual Cost by Plan Year (% of Pay)
Ms. Lisa Driscoll
September 8, 2015
Page 4
California Nurses Association – July 1, 2016
Notes:
1. The methods and assumptions used to determine the savings were the same as those used for the
December 31, 2014 valuation.
2. The County is assumed to hire one active employee at July 1 of each projection year (we have averaged
results for one male and one female). The annual salary at entry is assumed to be $100,400, $103,900,
$107,500, and $111,300 for the 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019 hires, respectively. The age at entry for new
hires is assumed to be 39. These assumptions were provided by the County.
3. The maximum compensation limit for the retirement benefit is assumed to be $120,870 for 2016 and it is
expected to grow 2.00% per year.
4. In the AB340 benefit structure, the multiplier is 2% at 62. The multiplier increases by 0.1% for ages above
62 to a maximum of 2.5% at 67. It decreases by 0.1% for ages below 62 to a minimum of 1.0% at 52.
5. Results for 2016 are for six months only (July 1 through December 31).
Calendar Year 2016 2017 2018 2019
Valuation Pay $45,200 $140,500 $239,600 $342,400
Annual Cost
AB340 with 3.00% COLA
i) $$6,100 $18,900 $32,100 $45,800
ii) % of Pay 13.5%13.5%13.4%13.4%
AB340 with 2.00% COLA
i) $$5,500 $17,000 $28,800 $41,100
ii) % of Pay 12.2%12.1%12.0%12.0%
Saving/(Cost)
i) $$600 $1,900 $3,300 $4,700
ii) % of Pay 1.3%1.4%1.4%1.4%
$0
$10,000
$20,000
$30,000
$40,000
$50,000
2016 2017 2018 2019
Saving/(Cost)AB340 with 3.00% COLA AB340 with 2.00% COLA
Contra Costa County -AB340 with 3.00 COLA vs. AB340 with 2.00 COLA
Annual Cost by Plan Year ($)
0.0%
5.0%
10.0%
15.0%
2016 2017 2018 2019
Saving/(Cost)AB340 with 3.00% COLA AB340 with 2.00% COLA
Annual Cost by Plan Year (% of Pay)
October 12, 2015
Ms. Lisa Driscoll
Finance Director
Contra Costa County
651 Pine Street, 10th floor
Martinez, CA 94553
Re: Complying with California Government Code Section 7507 Regarding Changes to Pension
Benefits of Probation Management
Dear Ms. Driscoll:
We have been asked to estimate the effect on the County’s current and future unfunded actuarial
accrued liabilities and Annual Required Contributions resulting from a new tier of benefits in the
structure of Assembly Bill 340 (AB340) with a 2.00% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) effective on
January 1, 2016 or alternatively, effective July 1, 2016. Both dates are used as potential effective
dates for the proposed change for the members of Probation Management. We are comparing this
benefit structure to the AB340 structure with a 3.00% COLA which the plan currently provides.
Because this change affects only future entrants, it will have no effect on the unfunded actuarial
accrued liabilities of Contra Costa County Employees’ Retirement Association (CCCERA) as of the
effective dates. We show the cost impacts on the enclosed charts per one hire per year (results are
averages of one male and one female). The costs shown are combined employee and employer
normal costs. By going from a 3.00% COLA to a 2.00% COLA, the County will realize a sa vings. The
savings are equal to the excess of the normal cost for an AB340 structure with a 3.00% COLA over
the normal cost of an AB340 structure with a 2.00% COLA.
We have expressed the savings in annual dollar amounts and as percentages of covered payroll for
calendar years 2016, 2017 and 2018 (2019 is also included for the July 1, 2016 effective date). These
results are merely illustrative and the actual impact will depend upon the actual demographic
characteristics of the employees as well as the pattern of future hiring. On the exhibit for the July 1,
2016 effective date, results shown for 2016 are for the six month period July 1 through December 31.
Buck Consultants, LLC
353 Sacramento Street
Suite 800
San Francisco, CA 94111
tel 415.392.0616
fax 415.392.3991
Ms. Lisa Driscoll
October 12, 2015
Page 2
Future actuarial measurements may differ significantly from the current measurement presented in this
report due to such factors as: plan experience different from that anticipated by the economic and
demographic assumptions; increases or decreases expected as part of the natural operation of the
methodology used for these measurements; and changes in plan provisions or applicable law. Due to
the limited scope of this report, an analysis of the pote ntial range of such future measurements has not
been performed.
The methods and assumptions used are the same as those used in the December 31, 2014, actuarial
valuation of CCCERA. The demographic as well as the economic assumptions with respect to
investment yield, salary increase and inflation set forth in the December 31, 2014 valuation have been
based upon a review of the existing portfolio structure as well as recent and anticip ated experience.
Information on our new entrant profile is given in Note 2 of the enclosed projections.
The report was prepared under the supervision of David Kershner and Stephen Drake, who are both
Enrolled Actuaries and Members of the American Academy of Actuaries. David Kershner is a Fellow
of the Society of Actuaries and Stephen Drake is an Associate of the Society of Actuaries. Both meet
the qualification Standards of the American Academy of Actuaries to render the actuarial opinions
contained in this report. This report has been prepared in accordance with all Applicable Actuarial
Standards of Practice. We are available to answer any questions on the material contained in the
report, or to provide explanations or further details as may be appropriate.
Sincerely,
David J. Kershner, FSA, EA, MAAA Stephen Drake, ASA, EA, MAAA
Principal and Consulting Actuary Director, Retirement Actuary
Ms. Lisa Driscoll
October 12, 2015
Page 3
Probation Management – January 1, 2016
Notes:
1. The methods and assumptions used to determine the savings were the same as those used for the
December 31, 2014 valuation for the Safety members.
2. The County is assumed to hire one Safety employee into Probation Management at January 1 of each
projection year (we have averaged results for one male and one female). The assumed age at entry for
new hires is 45, and the annual salary is assumed to be $111,800, $115,700, and $119,700 for the 2016,
2017, and 2018 hires, respectively. These assumptions were provided by the County.
3. The maximum compensation limit for the retirement benefit is assumed to be 120% of $120,870, or
$145,044, for 2016 and it is expected to grow 2.00% per year.
4. In the AB340 benefit structure, the multiplier is 2.5% at 55. The multiplier increases by 0.1% for ages above
55 to a maximum of 2.7% at 57. It decreases by 0.1% for ages below 55 to a minimum of 2.0% at 50.
Calendar Year 2016 2017 2018
Valuation Pay $101,200 $208,200 $321,400
Annual Cost
AB340 with 3.00% COLA
i) $$42,700 $87,600 $134,800
ii) % of Pay 42.2%42.1%41.9%
AB340 with 2.00% COLA
i) $$38,300 $78,500 $120,800
ii) % of Pay 37.8%37.7%37.6%
Saving/(Cost)
i) $$4,400 $9,100 $14,000
ii) % of Pay 4.4%4.4%4.3%
$0
$20,000
$40,000
$60,000
$80,000
$100,000
$120,000
$140,000
$160,000
2016 2017 2018
Saving/(Cost)AB340 with 3.00% COLA AB340 with 2.00% COLA
Contra Costa County -AB340 with 3.00 COLA vs. AB340 with 2.00 COLA
Annual Cost by Plan Year ($)
0.0%
20.0%
40.0%
60.0%
2016 2017 2018
Saving/(Cost)AB340 with 3.00% COLA AB340 with 2.00% COLA
Annual Cost by Plan Year (% of Pay)
Ms. Lisa Driscoll
October 12, 2015
Page 4
Probation Management – July 1, 2016
Notes:
1. The methods and assumptions used to determine the savings were the same as thos e used for the
December 31, 2014 valuation for the Safety members.
2. The County is assumed to hire one Safety employee into Probation Management at July 1 of each
projection year (we have averaged results for one male and one female). The assumed age at entry for
new hires is 45, and the annual salary is assumed to be $111,800, $115,700, $119,700, and $123,900 for
the 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019 hires, respectively. These assumptions were provided by the County.
3. The maximum compensation limit for the retirement benefit is assumed to be 120% of $1 20,870, or
$145,044, for 2016 and it is expected to grow 2.00% per year.
4. In the AB340 benefit structure, the multiplier is 2.5% at 55. The multiplier increases by 0.1% for ages above
55 to a maximum of 2.7% at 57. It decreases by 0.1% for ages below 55 to a minimum of 2.0% at 50.
5. Results for 2016 are for six months only (July 1 through December 31).
Calendar Year 2016 2017 2018 2019
Valuation Pay $50,600 $158,400 $272,300 $392,900
Annual Cost
AB340 with 3.00% COLA
i) $$21,400 $66,700 $114,400 $165,000
ii) % of Pay 42.3%42.1%42.0%42.0%
AB340 with 2.00% COLA
i) $$19,100 $59,800 $102,500 $147,800
ii) % of Pay 37.7%37.8%37.6%37.6%
Saving/(Cost)
i) $$2,300 $6,900 $11,900 $17,200
ii) % of Pay 4.6%4.3%4.4%4.4%
$0
$50,000
$100,000
$150,000
$200,000
2016 2017 2018 2019
Saving/(Cost)AB340 with 3.00% COLA AB340 with 2.00% COLA
Contra Costa County -AB340 with 3.00 COLA vs. AB340 with 2.00 COLA
Annual Cost by Plan Year ($)
0.0%
20.0%
40.0%
60.0%
2016 2017 2018 2019
Saving/(Cost)AB340 with 3.00% COLA AB340 with 2.00% COLA
Annual Cost by Plan Year (% of Pay)
October 12, 2015
Ms. Lisa Driscoll
Finance Director
Contra Costa County
651 Pine Street, 10th floor
Martinez, CA 94553
Re: Complying with California Government Code Section 7507 Regarding Changes to Pension
Benefits of Fire Management
Dear Ms. Driscoll:
We have been asked to estimate the effect on the County’s current and future unfunded actuarial
accrued liabilities and Annual Required Contributions resulting from a new tier of benefits in the
structure of Assembly Bill 340 (AB340) with a 2.00% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) effective on
January 1, 2016 or alternatively, effective July 1, 2016. Both dates are used as potential effective
dates for the proposed change for the members of Fire Management. We are comparing this benefit
structure to the AB340 structure with a 3.00% COLA which the plan currently provides.
Because this change affects only future entrants, it will have no effect on the unfunded actuarial
accrued liabilities of Contra Costa County Employees’ Retirement Association (CCCERA) as of the
effective dates. We show the cost impacts on the enclosed charts per one hire per year (results are
averages of one male and one female). The costs shown are combined employee and employer
normal costs. By going from a 3.00% COLA to a 2.00% COLA, the County will realize a savings. The
savings are equal to the excess of the normal cost for an AB340 structure with a 3.00% COLA over
the normal cost of an AB340 structure with a 2.00% COLA.
We have expressed the savings in annual dollar amounts and as percentages of covered payroll for
calendar years 2016, 2017 and 2018 (2019 is also included for the July 1, 2016 effective date). These
results are merely illustrative and the actual impact will depend upon the actual demographic
characteristics of the employees as well as the pattern of future hiring. On the exhibit for the July 1,
2016 effective date, results shown for 2016 are for the six month period July 1 through December 31.
Buck Consultants, LLC
353 Sacramento Street
Suite 800
San Francisco, CA 94111
tel 415.392.0616
fax 415.392.3991
Ms. Lisa Driscoll
October 12, 2015
Page 2
Future actuarial measurements may differ significantly from the current measurement presented in this
report due to such factors as: plan experience different from that anticipated by the economic and
demographic assumptions; increases or decreases expected as part of the natural operation of the
methodology used for these measurements; and changes in plan provisions or applicable law. Due to
the limited scope of this report, an analysis of the potential range of such future measurements has not
been performed.
The methods and assumptions used are the same as those used in the December 31, 2014, actuarial
valuation of CCCERA. The demographic as well as the economic assumptions with respect to
investment yield, salary increase and inflation set forth in the December 31, 2014 valuation have been
based upon a review of the existing portfolio structure as well as recent and anticipated ex perience.
Information on our new entrant profile is given in Note 2 of the enclosed projections.
The report was prepared under the supervision of David Kershner and Stephen Drake, who are both
Enrolled Actuaries and Members of the American Academy of Actuaries. David Kershner is a Fellow
of the Society of Actuaries and Stephen Drake is an Associate of the Society of Actuaries. Both meet
the qualification Standards of the American Academy of Actuaries to render the actuarial opinions
contained in this report. This report has been prepared in accordance with all Applicable Actuarial
Standards of Practice. We are available to answer any questions on the material contained in the
report, or to provide explanations or further details as may be appropriate.
Sincerely,
David J. Kershner, FSA, EA, MAAA Stephen Drake, ASA, EA, MAAA
Principal and Consulting Actuary Director, Retirement Actuary
Ms. Lisa Driscoll
October 12, 2015
Page 3
Fire Management – January 1, 2016
Notes:
1. The methods and assumptions used to determine the savings were the same as thos e used for the
December 31, 2014 valuation for the Safety members.
2. The County is assumed to hire one Safety employee into Fire Management at January 1 of each projection
year (we have averaged results for one male and one female). The assumed age at entry for new hires is
42, and the annual salary is assumed to be $121,100, $125,300, and $129,700 for the 2016, 2017, and 2018
hires, respectively. These assumptions were provided by the County.
3. The maximum compensation limit for the retirement benefit is assumed to be 120% of $120,870, or
$145,044, for 2016 and it is expected to grow 2.00% per year.
4. In the AB340 benefit structure, the multiplier is 2.5% at 55. The multiplier increases by 0.1% for ages above
55 to a maximum of 2.7% at 57. It decreases by 0.1% for ages below 55 to a minimum of 2.0% at 50.
Calendar Year 2016 2017 2018
Valuation Pay $109,700 $226,100 $350,000
Annual Cost
AB340 with 3.00% COLA
i) $$38,300 $78,700 $121,500
ii) % of Pay 34.9%34.8%34.7%
AB340 with 2.00% COLA
i) $$34,300 $70,400 $108,600
ii) % of Pay 31.3%31.1%31.0%
Saving/(Cost)
i) $$4,000 $8,300 $12,900
ii) % of Pay 3.6%3.7%3.7%
$0
$20,000
$40,000
$60,000
$80,000
$100,000
$120,000
$140,000
2016 2017 2018
Saving/(Cost)AB340 with 3.00% COLA AB340 with 2.00% COLA
Contra Costa County -AB340 with 3.00 COLA vs. AB340 with 2.00 COLA
Annual Cost by Plan Year ($)
0.0%
10.0%
20.0%
30.0%
40.0%
2016 2017 2018
Saving/(Cost)AB340 with 3.00% COLA AB340 with 2.00% COLA
Annual Cost by Plan Year (% of Pay)
Ms. Lisa Driscoll
October 12, 2015
Page 4
Fire Management – July 1, 2016
Notes:
1. The methods and assumptions used to determine the savings were the same as thos e used for the
December 31, 2014 valuation for the Safety members.
2. The County is assumed to hire one Safety employee into Fire Management at July 1 of each projection year
(we have averaged results for one male and one female). The assumed age at entry for new hires is 42,
and the annual salary is assumed to be $121,100, $125,300, $129,700, and $134,200 for the 2016, 2017,
2018, and 2019 hires, respectively. These assumptions were provided by the County.
3. The maximum compensation limit for the retirement benefit is assumed to be 120% of $120,870, or
$145,044, for 2016 and it is expected to grow 2.00% per year.
4. In the AB340 benefit structure, the multiplier is 2.5% at 55. The multiplier increases by 0.1% for ages above
55 to a maximum of 2.7% at 57. It decreases by 0.1% for ages below 55 to a minimum of 2.0% at 50.
5. Results for 2016 are for six months only (July 1 through December 31).
Calendar Year 2016 2017 2018 2019
Valuation Pay $54,900 $171,900 $296,200 $428,700
Annual Cost
AB340 with 3.00% COLA
i) $$19,200 $59,900 $103,000 $148,900
ii) % of Pay 35.0%34.8%34.8%34.7%
AB340 with 2.00% COLA
i) $$17,100 $53,600 $92,000 $133,100
ii) % of Pay 31.1%31.2%31.1%31.0%
Saving/(Cost)
i) $$2,100 $6,300 $11,000 $15,800
ii) % of Pay 3.9%3.6%3.7%3.7%
$0
$20,000
$40,000
$60,000
$80,000
$100,000
$120,000
$140,000
$160,000
2016 2017 2018 2019
Saving/(Cost)AB340 with 3.00% COLA AB340 with 2.00% COLA
Contra Costa County -AB340 with 3.00 COLA vs. AB340 with 2.00 COLA
Annual Cost by Plan Year ($)
0.0%
10.0%
20.0%
30.0%
40.0%
2016 2017 2018 2019
Saving/(Cost)AB340 with 3.00% COLA AB340 with 2.00% COLA
Annual Cost by Plan Year (% of Pay)
October 12, 2015
Ms. Lisa Driscoll
Finance Director
Contra Costa County
651 Pine Street, 10th floor
Martinez, CA 94553
Re: Complying with California Government Code Section 7507 Regarding Changes to Pension
Benefits of AFSCME 512 Safety
Dear Ms. Driscoll:
We have been asked to estimate the effect on the County’s current and future unfunded actuarial
accrued liabilities and Annual Required Contributions resulting from a new tier of benefits in the
structure of Assembly Bill 340 (AB340) with a 2.00% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) effective on
January 1, 2016 or alternatively, effective July 1, 2016. Both dates are used as potential effective
dates for the proposed change for the members of AFSCME 512 Safety. We are comparing this
benefit structure to the AB340 structure with a 3.00% COLA which the plan currently provides.
Because this change affects only future entrants, it will have no effect on the unfunded actuarial
accrued liabilities of Contra Costa County Employees’ Retirement Association (CCCERA) as of the
effective dates. We show the cost impacts on the enclosed charts per one hire per year (results are
averages of one male and one female). The costs shown are combined employee and employer
normal costs. By going from a 3.00% COLA to a 2.00% COLA, the County will realize a savings. The
savings are equal to the excess of the normal cost for an AB340 structure with a 3.00% COLA over
the normal cost of an AB340 structure with a 2.00% COLA.
We have expressed the savings in annual dollar amounts and as percentages of covered payroll for
calendar years 2016, 2017 and 2018 (2019 is also included for the July 1, 2016 effective date). These
results are merely illustrative and the actual impact will depend upon the actual demographic
characteristics of the employees as well as the pattern of future hiring. On the exhibit for the July 1,
2016 effective date, results shown for 2016 are for the six month period July 1 through December 31.
Buck Consultants, LLC
353 Sacramento Street
Suite 800
San Francisco, CA 94111
tel 415.392.0616
fax 415.392.3991
Ms. Lisa Driscoll
October 12, 2015
Page 2
Future actuarial measurements may differ significantly from the current measurement presented in this
report due to such factors as: plan experience different from that anticipated by the economic and
demographic assumptions; increases or decreases expected as part of the natural operation of the
methodology used for these measurements; and changes in plan provisions or applicable law. Due to
the limited scope of this report, an analysis of the potential range of such future measurements has not
been performed.
The methods and assumptions used are the same as those used in the December 31, 2014, actuarial
valuation of CCCERA. The demographic as well as the economic assumptions with respect to
investment yield, salary increase and inflation set forth in the December 31, 2014 valuation have been
based upon a review of the existing portfolio structure as well as recent and anticip ated experience.
Information on our new entrant profile is given in Note 2 of the enclosed projections.
The report was prepared under the supervision of David Kershner and Stephen Drake, who are both
Enrolled Actuaries and Members of the American Academy of Actuaries. David Kershner is a Fellow
of the Society of Actuaries and Stephen Drake is an Associate of the Society of Actuaries. Both meet
the qualification Standards of the American Academy of Actuaries to render the actuarial opinions
contained in this report. This report has been prepared in accordance with all Applicable Actuarial
Standards of Practice. We are available to answer any questions on the material contained in the
report, or to provide explanations or further details as may be appropriate.
Sincerely,
David J. Kershner, FSA, EA, MAAA Stephen Drake, ASA, EA, MAAA
Principal and Consulting Actuary Director, Retirement Actuary
Ms. Lisa Driscoll
October 12, 2015
Page 3
AFSCME 512 Safety – January 1, 2016
Notes:
1. The methods and assumptions used to determine the savings were the same as those used for the
December 31, 2014 valuation for the Safety members.
2. The County is assumed to hire one Safety employee into AFSCME 512 Safety at January 1 of each
projection year (we have averaged results for one male and one female). The assumed age at entry for
new hires is 56, and the annual salary is assumed to be $79,700, $82,500, and $85,400 for the 2016, 2017,
and 2018 hires, respectively. These assumptions were provided by the County.
3. The maximum compensation limit for the retirement benefit is assumed to be 120% of $120,870, or
$145,044, for 2016 and it is expected to grow 2.00% per year.
4. In the AB340 benefit structure, the multiplier is 2.5% at 55. The multiplier increases by 0.1% for ages above
55 to a maximum of 2.7% at 57. It decreases by 0.1% for ages below 55 to a minimum of 2.0% at 50.
Calendar Year 2016 2017 2018
Valuation Pay $70,800 $143,000 $216,900
Annual Cost
AB340 with 3.00% COLA
i) $$46,100 $93,000 $141,200
ii) % of Pay 65.1%65.0%65.1%
AB340 with 2.00% COLA
i) $$41,800 $84,400 $128,100
ii) % of Pay 59.0%59.0%59.1%
Saving/(Cost)
i) $$4,300 $8,600 $13,100
ii) % of Pay 6.1%6.0%6.0%
$0
$20,000
$40,000
$60,000
$80,000
$100,000
$120,000
$140,000
$160,000
2016 2017 2018
Saving/(Cost)AB340 with 3.00% COLA AB340 with 2.00% COLA
Contra Costa County -AB340 with 3.00 COLA vs. AB340 with 2.00 COLA
Annual Cost by Plan Year ($)
0.0%
20.0%
40.0%
60.0%
80.0%
2016 2017 2018
Saving/(Cost)AB340 with 3.00% COLA AB340 with 2.00% COLA
Annual Cost by Plan Year (% of Pay)
Ms. Lisa Driscoll
October 12, 2015
Page 4
AFSCME 512 Safety – July 1, 2016
Notes:
1. The methods and assumptions used to determine the savings were the same as thos e used for the
December 31, 2014 valuation for the Safety members.
2. The County is assumed to hire one Safety employee into AFSCME 512 Safety at July 1 of each projection
year (we have averaged results for one male and one female). The assumed age at entry for new hires is
56, and the annual salary is assumed to be $79,700, $82,500, $85,400, and $88,400 for the 2016, 2017,
2018, and 2019 hires, respectively. These assumptions were provided by the County.
3. The maximum compensation limit for the retirement benefit is assumed to be 120% of $120,8 70, or
$145,044, for 2016 and it is expected to grow 2.00% per year.
4. In the AB340 benefit structure, the multiplier is 2.5% at 55. The multiplier increases by 0.1% for ages above
55 to a maximum of 2.7% at 57. It decreases by 0.1% for ages below 55 to a minimum of 2.0% at 50.
5. Results for 2016 are for six months only (July 1 through December 31).
Calendar Year 2016 2017 2018 2019
Valuation Pay $35,400 $109,500 $185,100 $262,700
Annual Cost
AB340 with 3.00% COLA
i) $$23,000 $71,200 $120,500 $170,900
ii) % of Pay 65.0%65.0%65.1%65.1%
AB340 with 2.00% COLA
i) $$20,900 $64,600 $109,300 $155,100
ii) % of Pay 59.0%59.0%59.0%59.0%
Saving/(Cost)
i) $$2,100 $6,600 $11,200 $15,800
ii) % of Pay 6.0%6.0%6.1%6.1%
$0
$50,000
$100,000
$150,000
$200,000
2016 2017 2018 2019
Saving/(Cost)AB340 with 3.00% COLA AB340 with 2.00% COLA
Contra Costa County -AB340 with 3.00 COLA vs. AB340 with 2.00 COLA
Annual Cost by Plan Year ($)
0.0%
20.0%
40.0%
60.0%
80.0%
2016 2017 2018 2019
Saving/(Cost)AB340 with 3.00% COLA AB340 with 2.00% COLA
Annual Cost by Plan Year (% of Pay)