At the CFPD Board meeting Thursday May 10, 2012, Chief Jeff Millar urged the board to begin the process of looking for a new chief.
Due to the Assembly Bill 1028 that came into effect January 1, 2012, any person retired from a CalPers employer cannot work for another CalPers employer for more than 960 hours without giving up their retirement benefits from their previous employer. Chief Millar, hired prior to AB1028, is fast approaching his 960 hours. Disappointed with the bill, Millar has consulted an attorney, after the consultation he stated that when he reaches his 960 hours, "I will still serve Copper Fire in a completely volunteer position until a complete and smooth transition is made."
This decision by the Assembly will have far reaching affects on smaller communities and districts as they are usually not able to pay competitive rates for upper management employees and rely heavily on those retired willing to take a job with less pay. The benefit to the community is not only cost effective but they gain an administrator with years of experience.
Calaveras County Sheriff Department will also be reeling from this decision as some of their bailiffs, boat patrol and dispatchers are retired. These retirees come with years of experience that the public directly benefits from.
It has been speculated that 'trailers' to the bill may be in the works to amend the bill for public safety positions, police, fire and emergency services. Yet there has been no response from Assemblymember Kristen Olsen's office either denying or confirming that speculation.
