The Civic Federation, an independent, non-partisan government research organization that promotes efficient delivery of public services and sustainable tax policies in the Chicago region and State of Illinois, have announced their support of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation of Greater Chicago’s (MWRD’s) FY 2013 budget. The Civic Federation released its analysis on December 12.
“Among local governments in our region, the District is a leader in recognizing and addressing threats to long-term fiscal sustainability,” said Laurence Msall, president of the Civic Federation.
In preparing its 2013 budget which was adopted by the Board of Commissioners on December 13, MWRD staff worked to achieve operational efficiencies while passing on the savings to the taxpayers by not increasing the aggregate tax levy in 2013.
For the second consecutive year, MWRD staff participated in a corporate strategic planning process to develop the budget; part of the plan included efforts to address underfunding of its pension and healthcare costs. To overcome this hurdle, the MWRD Board and pension fund leaders successfully secured General Assembly support to allow for implementing pension funding reforms to increase both employee and employer contributions. Because the MWRD pension system was created by Illinois Statute, any changes to it require General Assembly action.
“The Civic Federation commends the District for successfully developing and promoting a framework for pension reform,” Msall said. “The effort serves as a model to other local governments with deteriorating pension funds.”
“We are on a great path forward to continue the excellence in service that the public expects and deserves,” said MWRD Executive Director David St. Pierre. “Managing our budget will keep the MWRD on a sound path. Staff worked hard to tighten our belts, and we are pleased to pass the savings on to our taxpayers.”
For the full Civic Federation report, visit www.civicfed.org.
Our water environment…Take it personally.
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