After more than a decade, the town of Seneca Falls is moving to correct a costly retirement plan mistake for two town police officers.
The correction applies to Lieutenant Thomas Cleere and Sergeant Bethany Kidd, ensuring they are enrolled in the state’s 20-year police retirement plan rather than the standard plan for non-police employees. The move will involve retroactive payments estimated at $500,000.
According to the resolution, the payments will be made using legally available town funds, with the exact funding sources determined when payments to the New York State Retirement System are due. The town plans to take advantage of amortization or payment plans offered by the retirement system to spread costs over time and limit impacts on the annual budget.
The Finger Lakes Times reports the correction may require action by the New York State Legislature, and Board member Jackson Puylara has been designated to coordinate with state officials regarding any necessary legislation.
The resolution was approved 4-0 without further discussion.
