HomeMy WebLinkAboutStaff Report 6415
City of Palo Alto (ID # 6415)
City Council Staff Report
Report Type: Consent Calendar Meeting Date: 2/1/2016
City of Palo Alto Page 1
Summary Title: New Pension Reporting (GASB 68)
Title: Finance Committee Recommendation for Council to Review and Accept
Information on the New Government Accounting Standards Board Pension
Reporting Standards Known as GASB 68
From: City Manager
Lead Department: Administrative Services
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the Council review and accept the new Government Accounting
Standards Board pension reporting standards known as GASB 68.
Background
The Finance Committee reviewed and discussed the GASB 68 staff report on October 20, 2015.
Staff is forwarding the report to Council to review.
In June 2012, the Government Accounting Standards Board (GASB) approved a new reporting
statement, GASB Statement No. 68 (GASB 68), that improved the financial reporting of pensions
by local governments. GASB 68, formally titled Accounting and Financial Reporting for
Pensions, establishes new accounting and financial reporting standards for local governments
that provide their employees with pensions. The new standard requires government agencies
to report pension information to increase transparency about pension costs to help decision
makers factor in the financial impact of total pension obligations. The City needed to
implement GASB 68 by June 30, 2015 and the City of Palo Alto complied with this requirement
with the FY2015 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR). The net pension liability,
when incorporated into the fund statements, does not create a negative financial position in
any of the funds, except in the Airport Fund, where it contributes to an already negative
position due to a long-term advance from the General Fund. The CAFR was presented to the
Finance Committee on November 17, 2015.
Attachments:
Attachment A: Staff Report 6144 (PDF)
Attachment B: 10-20-15 FCM Agenda Item 1 Excerpt (PDF)
City of Palo Alto (ID # 6144)
Finance Committee Staff Report
Report Type: Action Items Meeting Date: 10/20/2015
City of Palo Alto Page 1
Council Priority: City Finances
Summary Title: GASB68
Title: New Pension Reporting Standards Government Accounting Standards
Board Statement Number 68 (GASB 68)
From: City Manager
Lead Department: Administrative Services
Motion
Staff recommends that the Finance Committee review and discuss the new Government
Accounting Standards Board pension reporting standards known as GASB 68.
Background
In June 2012, the Government Accounting Standards Board (GASB) approved a new reporting
statement, GASB Statement No. 68 (GASB 68), that improved the financial reporting of pensions
by local governments. GASB 68, formally titled Accounting and Financial Reporting for
Pensions, establishes new accounting and financial reporting standards for local governments
that provide their employees with pensions. The new standard requires government agencies
to report pension information to increase transparency about pension costs to help decision
makers factor in the financial impact of total pension obligations. GASB 68 must be
implemented by June 30, 2015 and the City of Palo Alto will comply with this requirement with
the upcoming FY2015 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR), which is scheduled to be
presented to the Finance Committee in November, 2015.
Discussion
Local governments with pensions have a total pension liability, which is the obligation to pay
deferred pension benefits in the future. When the total pension liability is greater than the
pension plan’s assets there is a net pension liability, also known as unfunded pension liability.
GASB 68 now requires governments to report their net pension liability on their government-
wide financial statements, as well as in the proprietary fund statements, in the CAFR. Prior to
GASB 68 the net pension liability was reported in the notes section of the CAFR.
City of Palo Alto Page 2
Palo Alto’s pension liability is calculated as follows:
FY15 CAFR
Pension Liability % Funded
Safety $ 102.8 M 72.01%
Miscellaneous 187.1 M 71.80%
Total Pension
Liability $ 289.9 M
The above figures are obtained from the CalPERS actuarial reports dated June 30, 2014
(Attached).
As discussed above, instead of discussing the City’s pension liability in the Notes section of the
CAFR, the pension liability figures will be presented for the first time in the FY2015 CAFR in the
entity wide and separate proprietary fund schedules. The allocated net pension liability is
presented below:
General
Fund
Electric
Fund
Water Fund Gas Fund All Other
Funds
Total
Net
Pension
Liability
$197.2 $26.1 $11.0 $11.8 $43.8 $289.9
Percentage 68.0% 9.0% 4.0% 4.1% 14.9% 100.0%
The pension liability will be allocated based on the employer contributions for FY2014 for the
employees serving in each fund.
The new GASB 68 reporting requirements will impact the CAFR on an annual go forward basis.
As with past practice, the city will continue to pay the annual required contribution for the
pension liabilities as identified in the annual CalPERS actuarial reports. The next set of reports,
which inform the City of its FY 2017 pension payments and rates, are scheduled to be released
late October/early November 2015. There will be a small discrepancy between the reports
since the GASB 68 reports are based on actuarial analysis using employee census data that is
two years in arrears while the October actuarial reports are based on current calendar year
employee census data.
City of Palo Alto Page 3
The City’s outside financial auditing firm, MGO, provided staff with guidance on how to
conform to the GASB 68 requirements. MGO will provide a final opinion on the
appropriateness of the GASB 68 allocation that will be presented in the FY2015 CAFR.
Next Steps
Starting with the FY2015 CAFR the GASB 68 pension liability figures will be presented in the
CAFR on an annual basis.
Council referred the unfunded pension liability issue to the Finance Committee to explore
potential action steps to reduce it and stabilize the annual employer contribution (Report ID #
6074).
Resource Impact
The pension liability reported in the CAFR for GASB 68 purposes does not impact the budget.
The City’s annual budget process will continue to use the pension liability figures that are
provided by CalPERS in the actuarial valuation reports for the safety and miscellaneous plans in
the October timeframe each year. The reports provide the employer contribution rate that is
used to determine the annual pension cost for the City.
Attachments:
Attachment A: GASB 68 Miscellaneous Plan Valuation Report (PDF)
Attachment B: GASB 68 Safety Plan Valuation Report (PDF)
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION
REPORT
(CalPERS ID: 6373437857)
Rate Plan Identifier: 8
Prepared for the
CITY OF PALO ALTO
MISCELLANEOUS PLAN,
an Agent Multiple-Employer Defined
Benefit Pension Plan
Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Actuarial Certification 1
Introduction 2
Purpose of the Report 3
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies 4
General Information about the Pension Plan 4
Changes in the Net Pension Liability 7
Pension Expense and Deferred Outflows and Deferred Inflows of Resources
Related to Pensions 9
Schedules of Required Supplementary Information 11
APPENDIX A – DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES AND DEFERRED INFLOWS OF
RESOURCES RELATED TO PENSIONS
Schedule of Differences between Expected and Actual Experience A-1
Deferred Outflows of Resources and Deferred Inflows of Resources for Differences
between Expected and Actual Experience
A-2
Schedule of Changes of Assumptions A-3
Deferred Outflows of Resources and Deferred Inflows of Resources for Changes of
Assumptions
A-4
Schedule of Differences between Projected and Actual Earnings on Pension Plan
Investments
A-5
Deferred Outflows of Resources and Deferred Inflows of Resources for Differences
between Projected and Actual Earnings on Pension Plan Investments
A-6
Summary of Recognized Deferred Outflows of Resources and Deferred Inflows of
Resources
A-7
APPENDIX B – INTEREST, TOTAL PROJECTED EARNINGS AND PENSION
EXPENSE/(INCOME)
Interest on Total Pension Liability and Total Projected Earnings B-1
Pension Expense/(Income) B-2
(CY) ACCTG PROC ID: 2700 (CY) REPORT PROC ID: 83743 (PY) ACCTG PROC ID: N/A (PY) REPORT PROC ID: N/A
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014 Page 1
ACTUARIAL CERTIFICATION
This report provides disclosure and reporting information as required under Governmental
Accounting Standards Board Statement 68 (GASB 68) for the MISCELLANEOUS PLAN of the CITY
OF PALO ALTO (the “Plan”), an Agent Multiple-Employer Defined Benefit Pension Plan participating
in the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS), for the measurement period
ended June 30, 2014. This information should be used for the fiscal year beginning after June 15,
2014 but ending on or before June 30, 2015.
Determinations for purposes other than financial accounting requirements may be significantly
different from the results in this report. Thus, the use of this report for purposes other than those
expressed here may not be appropriate.
This accounting valuation report relies on liabilities and related validation work performed by the
CalPERS Actuarial Office as part of the June 30, 2013 annual funding valuation for the Plan. The
census data and benefit provisions underlying the liabilities were prepared as of June 30, 2013 and
certified as part of the annual funding valuation by the CalPERS Actuarial Office. The June 30, 2013
liabilities used for this accounting valuation are based on the actuarial assumptions recommended
by the CalPERS Chief Actuary and adopted by the CalPERS Board in February 2014 as laid out in
the 2014 report titled “CalPERS Experience Study and Review of Actuarial Assumptions.” These
liabilities were validated as part of the June 30, 2013 funding valuation that included the estimated
impact of the change in actuarial assumptions on contribution requirements. The undersigned is
relying upon these prescribed assumptions and methods and is not able to render an opinion on
their reasonability, as this would require a substantial amount of additional work beyond the scope of
this report. This report also relies on asset information for the measurement period as supplied by
the CalPERS Financial Office. The fiduciary net position as of June 30, 2014, and the changes in net
position for the year then ended were audited by CalPERS’ independent auditors, Macias Gini &
O’Connell LLP, as part of the audit of the Schedule of Changes in Fiduciary Net Position by
Employer Rate Plan of CalPERS Agent Multiple-Employer Pension Plan.
With the provided liability and asset information, the total pension liability, net pension liability and
pension expense were developed for the measurement period using standard actuarial techniques.
In addition, the results are based on CalPERS’ understanding of the financial accounting and
reporting requirements under U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles as set forth in GASB
68. The information in this report is not intended to supersede the advice and interpretations of the
employer’s auditor. This report may not provide all the information necessary to complete the
required disclosures under GASB 68. The employer should supplement and update the information
in this report with its own financial data as necessary to complete the disclosure information required
by GASB 68.
The undersigned is familiar with the near-term and long-term aspects of pension valuations and
meets the Qualification Standards of the American Academy of Actuaries necessary to render the
actuarial opinions contained herein. The information provided in this report is dependent upon
various factors as documented throughout this report, which may be subject to change. Each section
of this report is considered to be an integral part of the actuarial opinions.
HENRY NEEB, ASA, MAAA
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 2
Introduction
This is the GASB 68 Accounting Valuation Report to be used for your fiscal year beginning after
June 15, 2014 and ending on or before June 30, 2015 for your MISCELLANEOUS PLAN (Plan).
GASB Statement No. 68 replaced the requirements of GASB 27 effective for fiscal years beginning
after June 15, 2014.
Statement 68 was issued by GASB in June 2012, requiring public employers to comply with new
accounting and financial reporting standards. Statement 68 outlines a different approach to the
recognition and calculation of pension obligations. Under the new GASB standards, employers that
participate in a defined benefit pension plan administered as a trust or equivalent arrangement are
required to record the net pension liability, pension expense, and deferred outflows/deferred inflows
of resources related to pensions in their financial statements as part of their financial position.
Net pension liability is the plan’s total pension liability based on entry age normal actuarial cost
method less the plan’s fiduciary net position. This may be a negative liability (net pension asset).
Pension expense is the change in net pension liability from the previous fiscal year to the current
fiscal year less adjustments. This may be a negative expense (pension income).
Deferred outflows and deferred inflows of resources related to pensions are certain changes in total
pension liability and fiduciary net position that are to be recognized in future pension expense.
This report may not provide all the information necessary to complete the required disclosures under
GASB 68. The employer should supplement and update the information in this report with its
own financial data as necessary to complete the disclosure information required by GASB 68.
For example, no adjustments have been made for contributions subsequent to the measurement
date. Appropriate accounting treatment of any contributions made after the measurement date is the
responsibility of the employer. CalPERS recommends that the employer consult with its auditor
regarding any such adjustments.
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 3
Purpose of the Report
The Plan participates in the CalPERS agent multiple-employer defined benefit pension plan. This
GASB 68 report provides accounting and financial reporting for pensions, to be used in the
employer’s financial reports. The pension expense is for the measurement period of 2013-14 and the
net pension liability is measured as of June 30, 2014. Liabilities are based on the results of the
actuarial calculations performed as of June 30, 2013 and were rolled forward to June 30, 2014.
Fiduciary net position is based on fair value of investments as of June 30, 2014. Since GASB 68
allows a measurement date of up to 12 months before the employer’s fiscal year-end, this report can
be used for fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2014 and ending on or before June 30, 2015.
The following pension information is disclosed in this report:
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
General Information about the Pension Plan
○ Plan Description, Benefits Provided and Employees Covered
○ Contribution Description
○ Actuarial Methods and Assumptions
○ Discount Rate
○ Pension Plan Fiduciary Net Position
Changes in the Net Pension Liability
○ Sensitivity of the Net Pension Liability
○ Subsequent Events
○ Recognition of Gains and Losses
Pension Expense and Deferred Outflows of Resources and Deferred Inflows of Resources
Related to Pensions
Schedules of Required Supplementary Information (10-Year History1):
○ Schedule of Changes in Net Pension Liability and Related Ratios
○ Schedule of Plan Contributions
The use of this report for other purposes may be inappropriate.
1 Historical information is required only for measurement periods for which GASB 68 is applicable.
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
For purposes of measuring the net pension liability, deferred outflows of resources and deferred
inflows of resources related to pensions, and pension expense, information about the fiduciary net
position of the Plan and additions to/deductions from the Plan’s fiduciary net position have been
determined on the same basis as they are reported by the CalPERS Financial Office. For this
purpose, benefit payments (including refunds of employee contributions) are recognized when
currently due and payable in accordance with the benefit terms. Investments are reported at fair
value.
GASB 68 requires that the reported results must pertain to liability and asset information within
certain defined timeframes. For this report, the following timeframes are used.
Valuation Date (VD) June 30, 2013
Measurement Date (MD) June 30, 2014
Measurement Period (MP) July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2014
General Information about the Pension Plan
Plan Description, Benefits Provided and Employees Covered
The Plan is an agent multiple-employer defined benefit pension plan administered by the California
Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS). A full description of the pension plan regarding
number of employees covered, benefit provisions, assumptions (for funding, but not accounting
purposes), and membership information are listed in the June 30, 2013 Annual Actuarial Valuation
Report. Details of the benefits provided can be obtained in Appendix B of the actuarial valuation
report. This report and CalPERS’ audited financial statements are publicly available reports that can
be obtained at CalPERS’ website under Forms and Publications.
Contribution Description
Section 20814(c) of the California Public Employees’ Retirement Law (PERL) requires that the
employer contribution rates for all public employers be determined on an annual basis by the actuary
and shall be effective on the July 1 following notice of a change in the rate. The total plan
contributions are determined through CalPERS’ annual actuarial valuation process. The actuarially
determined rate is the estimated amount necessary to finance the costs of benefits earned by
employees during the year, with an additional amount to finance any unfunded accrued liability. The
employer is required to contribute the difference between the actuarially determined rate and the
contribution rate of employees. For the measurement period ended June 30, 2014 (the
measurement date), the average active employee contribution rate is 7.796 percent of annual pay,
and the employer’s contribution rate is 25.536 percent of annual payroll. Employer contribution rates
may change if plan contracts are amended. It is the responsibility of the employer to make
necessary accounting adjustments to reflect the impact due to any Employer Paid Member
Contributions or situations where members are paying a portion of the employer contribution.
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 5
Actuarial Methods and Assumptions Used to Determine Total Pension Liability
For the measurement period ended June 30, 2014 (the measurement date), the total pension liability
was determined by rolling forward the June 30, 2013 total pension liability. The June 30, 2013 and
the June 30, 2014 total pension liabilities were based on the following actuarial methods and
assumptions:
Actuarial Cost Method Entry Age Normal in accordance with the requirements of
GASB Statement No. 68
Actuarial Assumptions
Discount Rate 7.50%
Inflation 2.75%
Salary Increases Varies by Entry Age and Service
Investment Rate of Return 7.50% Net of Pension Plan Investment and Administrative
Expenses; includes Inflation
Mortality Rate Table1 Derived using CalPERS’ Membership Data for all Funds
Post Retirement Benefit
Increase
Contract COLA up to 2.75% until Purchasing Power
Protection Allowance Floor on Purchasing Power applies,
2.75% thereafter
1 The mortality table used was developed based on CalPERS’ specific data. The table includes 20 years of
mortality improvements using Society of Actuaries Scale BB. For more details on this table, please refer to the
2014 experience study report.
All other actuarial assumptions used in the June 30, 2013 valuation were based on the results of an
actuarial experience study for the period from 1997 to 2011, including updates to salary increase,
mortality and retirement rates. The Experience Study report can be obtained at CalPERS’ website
under Forms and Publications.
Discount Rate
The discount rate used to measure the total pension liability was 7.50 percent. To determine whether
the municipal bond rate should be used in the calculation of a discount rate for each plan, CalPERS
stress tested plans that would most likely result in a discount rate that would be different from the
actuarially assumed discount rate. Based on the testing, none of the tested plans run out of assets.
Therefore, the current 7.50 percent discount rate is adequate and the use of the municipal bond rate
calculation is not necessary. The long-term expected discount rate of 7.50 percent is applied to all
plans in the Public Employees Retirement Fund. The stress test results are presented in a detailed
report called “GASB Crossover Testing Report” that can be obtained at CalPERS’ website under the
GASB 68 section.
According to Paragraph 30 of Statement 68, the long-term discount rate should be determined
without reduction for pension plan administrative expense. The 7.50 percent investment return
assumption used in this accounting valuation is net of administrative expenses. Administrative
expenses are assumed to be 15 basis points. An investment return excluding administrative
expenses would have been 7.65 percent. Using this lower discount rate has resulted in a slightly
higher total pension liability and net pension liability. This difference was deemed immaterial to the
agent multiple-employer plan. However, employers may determine the impact at the rate plan level
for their own financial reporting purposes. Refer to page 8 of this report, which provides information
on the sensitivity of the net pension liability to changes in the discount rate.
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 6
CalPERS is scheduled to review all actuarial assumptions as part of its regular Asset Liability
Management review cycle that is scheduled to be completed in February 2018. Any changes to the
discount rate will require Board action and proper stakeholder outreach. For these reasons,
CalPERS expects to continue using a discount rate net of administrative expenses for GASB 67 and
68 calculations through at least the 2017-18 fiscal year. CalPERS will continue to check the
materiality of the difference in calculation until such time as we have changed our methodology.
The long-term expected rate of return on pension plan investments was determined using a building-
block method in which best-estimate ranges of expected future real rates of return (expected returns,
net of pension plan investment expense and inflation) are developed for each major asset class.
In determining the long-term expected rate of return, staff took into account both short-term and
long-term market return expectations as well as the expected pension fund cash flows. Such cash
flows were developed assuming that both members and employers will make their required
contributions on time and as scheduled in all future years. Using historical returns of all the funds’
asset classes, expected compound (geometric) returns were calculated over the short-term (first 10
years) and the long-term (11-60 years) using a building-block approach. Using the expected
nominal returns for both short-term and long-term, the present value of benefits was calculated for
each fund. The expected rate of return was set by calculating the single equivalent expected return
that arrived at the same present value of benefits for cash flows as the one calculated using both
short-term and long-term returns. The expected rate of return was then set equivalent to the single
equivalent rate calculated above and rounded down to the nearest one quarter of one percent.
The table below reflects long-term expected real rate of return by asset class. The rate of return was
calculated using the capital market assumptions applied to determine the discount rate and asset
allocation. These geometric rates of return are net of administrative expenses.
Asset Class New Strategic
Allocation
Real Return
Years 1 - 101
Real Return
Years 11+2
Global Equity 47.0% 5.25% 5.71%
Global Fixed Income 19.0 0.99 2.43
Inflation Sensitive 6.0 0.45 3.36
Private Equity 12.0 6.83 6.95
Real Estate 11.0 4.50 5.13
Infrastructure and Forestland 3.0 4.50 5.09
Liquidity 2.0 (0.55) (1.05)
1An expected inflation of 2.5% used for this period
2An expected inflation of 3.0% used for this period
Pension Plan Fiduciary Net Position
The plan fiduciary net position disclosed in your GASB 68 accounting valuation report may differ
from the plan assets reported in your funding actuarial valuation report due to several reasons. First,
for the accounting valuations, CalPERS must keep items such as deficiency reserves, fiduciary self-
insurance and OPEB expense included as assets. These amounts are excluded for rate setting
purposes in your funding actuarial valuation. In addition, differences may result from early
Comprehensive Annual Financial Report closing and final reconciled reserves.
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 7
Changes in the Net Pension Liability
The following table shows the changes in net pension liability recognized over the measurement
period.
Increase (Decrease)
Total Pension
Liability
Plan Fiduciary Net
Position
Net Pension
Liability/(Asset)
(a) (b) (c) = (a) - (b)
Balance at: 6/30/2013 (VD)1 $ 635,847,037 $ 413,410,472 $ 222,436,565
Changes Recognized for the
Measurement Period:
Service Cost 12,441,595 12,441,595
Interest on the Total
Pension Liability
46,963,318
46,963,318
Changes of Benefit
Terms 0 0
Differences between
Expected and Actual
Experience
0
0
Changes of Assumptions 0 0
Contributions from the
Employer 17,399,732 (17,399,732)
Contributions from
Employees 6,344,660 (6,344,660)
Net Investment Income2 70,988,848 (70,988,848)
Benefit Payments,
including Refunds of
Employee Contributions
(31,780,533)
(31,780,533)
0
Net Changes during 2013-14 $ 27,624,380 $ 62,952,707 $ (35,328,327)
Balance at: 6/30/2014 (MD)1 $ 663,471,417 $ 476,363,179 $ 187,108,238
1 The fiduciary net position includes receivables for employee service buybacks, deficiency reserves, fiduciary
self-insurance and OPEB expense. As described on Page 6, this may differ from the plan assets reported in
the funding actuarial valuation report.
2 Net of administrative expenses. For details, see note in Appendix B-2.
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 8
Sensitivity of the Net Pension Liability to Changes in the Discount Rate
The following presents the net pension liability of the Plan as of the measurement date, calculated
using the discount rate of 7.50 percent, as well as what the net pension liability would be if it were
calculated using a discount rate that is 1 percentage-point lower (6.50 percent) or 1 percentage-point
higher (8.50 percent) than the current rate:
Discount Rate - 1%
(6.50%)
Current Discount
Rate (7.50%)
Discount Rate + 1%
(8.50%)
Plan's Net Pension
Liability/(Asset) $ 269,622,616 $ 187,108,238 $ 118,202,943
Subsequent Events
There were no subsequent events that would materially affect the results presented in this
disclosure.
Recognition of Gains and Losses
Under GASB 68, gains and losses related to changes in total pension liability and fiduciary net
position are recognized in pension expense systematically over time.
The first amortized amounts are recognized in pension expense for the year the gain or loss occurs.
The remaining amounts are categorized as deferred outflows and deferred inflows of resources
related to pensions and are to be recognized in future pension expense.
The amortization period differs depending on the source of the gain or loss:
Difference between projected
and actual earnings
5 year straight-line amortization
All other amounts Straight-line amortization over the average expected
remaining service lives of all members that are provided
with benefits (active, inactive, and retired) as of the
beginning of the measurement period
The expected average remaining service lifetime (EARSL) is calculated by dividing the total future
service years by the total number of plan participants (active, inactive, and retired).
The EARSL for the Plan for the 2013-14 measurement period is 3.1 years, which was obtained by
dividing the total service years of 7,375 (the sum of remaining service lifetimes of the active
employees) by 2,407 (the total number of participants: active, inactive, and retired). Note that
inactive employees and retirees have remaining service lifetimes equal to 0. Also note that total
future service is based on the members’ probability of decrementing due to an event other than
receiving a cash refund.
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 9
Pension Expense and Deferred Outflows and
Deferred Inflows of Resources Related to Pensions
Paragraph 137 of GASB 68 and Questions 267 and 268 of the GASB 68 Implementation Guide set
forth guidance on implementing the standard. The employer should use this guidance for the
adjusting entries concerning the net pension obligation and the initial net pension liability/(asset). As
of the start of the measurement period (July 1, 2013), the net pension liability/(asset) is
$222,436,565.
For the measurement period ending June 30, 2014 (the measurement date), the CITY OF PALO
ALTO incurred a pension expense/(income) of $14,484,819 for the Plan (see Appendix B-2 for the
complete breakdown of the pension expense).
Note that no adjustments have been made for contributions subsequent to the measurement date.
Adequate treatment of any contributions made after the measurement date is the responsibility of
the employer.
As of June 30, 2014, the CITY OF PALO ALTO has deferred outflows and deferred inflows of
resources related to pensions as follows:
Deferred Outflows of
Resources
Deferred Inflows of
Resources
Differences between Expected and
Actual Experience $ 0 $ 0
Changes of Assumptions 0 0
Net Difference between Projected and
Actual Earnings on Pension Plan
Investments 0 (32,413,414)
Total $ 0 $ (32,413,414)
The amounts above are net of outflows and inflows recognized in the 2013-14 measurement period
expense.
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 10
Amounts reported as deferred outflows and deferred inflows of resources related to pensions will be
recognized in future pension expense as follows:
Measurement Period
Ended June 30:
Deferred
Outflows/(Inflows) of
Resources
2015 $ (8,103,353)
2016 (8,103,353)
2017 (8,103,353)
2018 (8,103,355)
2019 0
Thereafter 0
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 11
Schedules of Required Supplementary Information
Schedule of Changes in Net Pension Liability and Related Ratios
During the Measurement Period
1 Historical information is required only for measurement periods for which GASB 68 is applicable.
2 Net of administrative expenses. For details, see note in Appendix B-2.
Notes to Schedule:
Benefit Changes: The figures above do not include any liability impact that may have resulted from
plan changes which occurred after June 30, 2013. This applies for voluntary benefit changes as well
as any offers of Two Years Additional Service Credit (a.k.a. Golden Handshakes).
Changes of Assumptions: There were no changes in assumptions.
Measurement Period 2013-141
TOTAL PENSION LIABILITY
Service Cost $ 12,441,595
Interest 46,963,318
Changes of Benefit Terms 0
Difference Between Expected and Actual Experience 0
Changes of Assumptions 0
Benefit Payments, Including Refunds of Employee Contributions (31,780,533)
Net Change in Total Pension Liability 27,624,380
Total Pension Liability – Beginning 635,847,037
Total Pension Liability – Ending (a) $ 663,471,417
PLAN FIDUCIARY NET POSITION
Contributions – Employer $ 17,399,732
Contributions – Employee 6,344,660
Net Investment Income2 70,988,848
Benefit Payments, Including Refunds of Employee Contributions (31,780,533)
Other Changes in Fiduciary Net Position 0
Net Change in Fiduciary Net Position 62,952,707
Plan Fiduciary Net Position – Beginning 413,410,472
Plan Fiduciary Net Position – Ending (b) $ 476,363,179
Plan Net Pension Liability/(Asset) – Ending (a) - (b) $ 187,108,238
Plan Fiduciary Net Position as a Percentage of the Total Pension Liability 71.80%
Covered-Employee Payroll $ 66,372,870
Plan Net Pension Liability/(Asset) as a Percentage of Covered-Employee
Payroll 281.90%
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 12
Schedule of Plan Contributions1
Fiscal Year 2013-14
Actuarially Determined Contribution2 $ 17,399,732
Contributions in Relation to the Actuarially Determined Contribution2 (17,399,732)
Contribution Deficiency (Excess) $ 0
Covered-Employee Payroll3, 4 $ 66,372,870
Contributions as a Percentage of Covered-Employee Payroll3 26.22%
1 Historical information is required only for measurement periods for which GASB 68 is applicable.
2 Employers are assumed to make contributions equal to the actuarially determined contributions. However,
some employers may choose to make additional contributions towards their unfunded liability. Employer
contributions for such plans exceed the actuarially determined contributions.
3 Covered-Employee Payroll represented above is based on pensionable earnings provided by the employer.
However, GASB 68 defines covered-employee payroll as the total payroll of employees that are provided
pensions through the pension plan. Accordingly, if pensionable earnings are different than total earnings for
covered-employees, the employer should display in the disclosure footnotes the payroll based on total
earnings for the covered group and recalculate the required payroll-related ratios.
4 Payroll from prior year $64,439,680 was assumed to increase by the 3.00 percent payroll growth assumption.
Notes to Schedule:
The actuarial methods and assumptions used to set the actuarially determined contributions for
Fiscal Year 2013-14 were from the June 30, 2011 public agency valuations.
Actuarial Cost Method Entry Age Normal
Amortization Method/Period For details, see June 30, 2011 Funding Valuation Report.
Asset Valuation Method Actuarial Value of Assets. For details, see June 30, 2011
Funding Valuation Report.
Inflation 2.75%
Salary Increases Varies by Entry Age and Service
Payroll Growth 3.00%
Investment Rate of Return 7.50% Net of Pension Plan Investment and Administrative
Expenses; includes Inflation.
Retirement Age The probabilities of Retirement are based on the 2010 CalPERS
Experience Study for the period from 1997 to 2007.
Mortality The probabilities of mortality are based on the 2010 CalPERS
Experience Study for the period from 1997 to 2007. Pre-
retirement and Post-retirement mortality rates include 5 years of
projected mortality improvement using Scale AA published by the
Society of Actuaries.
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A – DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES AND DEFERRED INFLOWS OF
RESOURCES RELATED TO PENSIONS
APPENDIX B – INTEREST, TOTAL PROJECTED EARNINGS AND PENSION
EXPENSE/(INCOME)
APPENDIX A
DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES AND DEFERRED
INFLOWS OF RESOURCES RELATED TO PENSIONS
SCHEDULE OF DIFFERENCES BETWEEN EXPECTED AND ACTUAL EXPERIENCE
DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES AND DEFERRED INFLOWS OF RESOURCES FOR
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN EXPECTED AND ACTUAL EXPERIENCE
SCHEDULE OF CHANGES OF ASSUMPTIONS
DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES AND DEFERRED INFLOWS OF RESOURCES FOR
CHANGES OF ASSUMPTIONS
SCHEDULE OF DIFFERENCES BETWEEN PROJECTED AND ACTUAL EARNINGS ON
PENSION PLAN INVESTMENTS
DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES AND DEFERRED INFLOWS OF RESOURCES FOR
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN PROJECTED AND ACTUAL EARNINGS ON PENSION PLAN
INVESTMENTS
SUMMARY OF RECOGNIZED DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES AND DEFERRED
INFLOWS OF RESOURCES
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
A-1
Schedule of differences between expected and actual experience
Increase (Decrease) in Pension Expense Arising from the Recognition of the Effects
of Differences between Expected and Actual Experience
(Measurement Periods)
Measurement
Period
Differences
between
Expected and
Actual Experience
Recognition
Period
(Years) 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 Thereafter
2013-14 $0 3.1 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Net Increase (Decrease) in Pension
Expense
$0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
A-2
Deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources arising from differences between expected and actual experience
Balances at June 30, 2014
Measurement
Period
Experience
Losses
Experience
Gains
Amounts Recognized in
Pension Expense
through June 30, 2014
Deferred
Outflows of
Resources
Deferred
Inflows of
Resources
(a) (b) (c) (a) - (c) (b) - (c)
2013-14
$0
$0 $0
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
A-3
Schedule of changes of assumptions
Increase (Decrease) in Pension Expense Arising from the
Recognition of the Effects of Changes of Assumptions
(Measurement Periods)
Measurement
Period
Changes of
Assumptions
Recognition
Period
(Years) 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 Thereafter
2013-14 $0 3.1 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Net Increase (Decrease) in Pension
Expense
$0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
A-4
Deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources arising from changes of assumptions
Balances at June 30, 2014
Measurement
Period
Increase in
Total Pension
Liability
Decrease in
Total Pension
Liability
Amounts Recognized in
Pension Expense through
June 30, 2014
Deferred
Outflows of
Resources
Deferred
Inflows of
Resources
(a) (b) (c) (a) - (c) (b) - (c)
2013-14
$0
$0 $0
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
A-5
Schedule of differences between projected and actual earnings on pension plan investments
Increase (Decrease) in Pension Expense Arising from the Recognition of
Differences between Projected and Actual Earnings on Pension Plan Investments
(Measurement Periods)
Measurement
Period
Differences
between
Projected and
Actual Earnings
on Pension Plan
Investments
Recognition
Period
(Years) 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 Thereafter
2013-14 $(40,516,767) 5.0 $(8,103,353) $(8,103,353) $(8,103,353) $(8,103,353) $(8,103,355) $0 $0
Net Increase (Decrease) in
Pension Expense
$(8,103,353) $(8,103,353) $(8,103,353) $(8,103,353) $(8,103,355) $0 $0
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
A-6
Deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources arising from differences between projected and actual earnings on pension
plan investments
Balances at June 30, 2014
Measurement
Period
Investment
Earnings less
than Projected
Investment
Earnings greater
than Projected
Amounts Recognized in
Pension Expense
through June 30, 2014
Deferred
Outflows of
Resources
Deferred
Inflows of
Resources
(a) (b) (c) (a) - (c) (b) - (c)
2013-14
$(40,516,767) $(8,103,353)
$(32,413,414)
$0 $(32,413,414)
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
A-7
Summary of recognized deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources
Net Increase (Decrease) in Pension Expense (Measurement Periods)
2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 Thereafter
Differences between
Expected and Actual
Experience $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Changes of
Assumptions 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Differences between
Projected and Actual
Earnings on Pension
Plan Investments (8,103,353) (8,103,353) (8,103,353) (8,103,353) (8,103,355) 0 0
Grand Total $(8,103,353) $(8,103,353) $(8,103,353) $(8,103,353) $(8,103,355) $0 $0
APPENDIX B
INTEREST, TOTAL PROJECTED EARNINGS AND
PENSION EXPENSE/(INCOME)
INTEREST ON TOTAL PENSION LIABILITY AND TOTAL PROJECTED EARNINGS
PENSION EXPENSE/(INCOME)
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014 B-1
Interest on Total Pension Liability and Total Projected Earnings
Interest on the Total Pension Liability Amount for Period
Portion of
Period Interest Rate
Interest on the Total
Pension Liability
(a) (b) (c) (a) X (b) X (c)
Beginning Total Pension Liability $ 635,847,037 100% 7.5% $ 47,688,528
Service Cost 12,441,595 50% 7.5% 466,560
Benefit Payments, including Refunds of Employee Contributions (31,780,533) 50% 7.5% (1,191,770)
Total Interest on the Total Pension Liability
$ 46,963,318
Projected Earnings on Pension Plan Investments Amount for Period
Portion of
Period
Projected Rate
of Return
Projected Earnings
(a) (b) (c) (a) X (b) X (c)
Beginning Plan Fiduciary Net Position excluding Receivables1 $ 410,312,475 100% 7.5% $ 30,773,436
Employer Contributions 17,399,732 50% 7.5% 652,490
Employee Contributions 6,344,660 50% 7.5% 237,925
Benefit Payments, including Refunds of Employee Contributions (31,780,533) 50% 7.5% (1,191,770)
Total Projected Earnings
$ 30,472,081
1 Contributions receivable for employee service buybacks, totaling $3,097,997 as of June 30, 2013, are excluded for purposes of calculating projected earnings
on pension plan investments.
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – MISCELLANEOUS PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
B-2
Pension Expense/(Income) for Measurement Period Ended June 30, 2014
Description Amount
Service Cost $ 12,441,595
Interest on the Total Pension Liability 46,963,318
Changes of Benefit Terms 0
Recognized Differences between Expected and Actual Experience 0
Recognized Changes of Assumptions 0
Employee Contributions (6,344,660)
Projected Earnings on Pension Plan Investments (30,472,081)
Recognized Differences between Projected and Actual Earnings on Plan Investments (8,103,353)
Other Changes in Fiduciary Net Position 0
Total Pension Expense/(Income) $ 14,484,819
Note: Plan administrative expenses are not displayed in the above pension expense table. Since the expected investment return of
7.50 percent is net of administrative expenses, administrative expenses are excluded from the above table, but implicitly included as
part of investment earnings.
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION
REPORT
(CalPERS ID: 6373437857)
Rate Plan Identifier: 5080
Prepared for the
CITY OF PALO ALTO
SAFETY PLAN,
an Agent Multiple-Employer Defined
Benefit Pension Plan
Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Actuarial Certification 1
Introduction 2
Purpose of the Report 3
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies 4
General Information about the Pension Plan 4
Changes in the Net Pension Liability 7
Pension Expense and Deferred Outflows and Deferred Inflows of Resources
Related to Pensions 9
Schedules of Required Supplementary Information 11
APPENDIX A – DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES AND DEFERRED INFLOWS OF
RESOURCES RELATED TO PENSIONS
Schedule of Differences between Expected and Actual Experience A-1
Deferred Outflows of Resources and Deferred Inflows of Resources for Differences
between Expected and Actual Experience
A-2
Schedule of Changes of Assumptions A-3
Deferred Outflows of Resources and Deferred Inflows of Resources for Changes of
Assumptions
A-4
Schedule of Differences between Projected and Actual Earnings on Pension Plan
Investments
A-5
Deferred Outflows of Resources and Deferred Inflows of Resources for Differences
between Projected and Actual Earnings on Pension Plan Investments
A-6
Summary of Recognized Deferred Outflows of Resources and Deferred Inflows of
Resources
A-7
APPENDIX B – INTEREST, TOTAL PROJECTED EARNINGS AND PENSION
EXPENSE/(INCOME)
Interest on Total Pension Liability and Total Projected Earnings B-1
Pension Expense/(Income) B-2
(CY) ACCTG PROC ID: 2701 (CY) REPORT PROC ID: 83744 (PY) ACCTG PROC ID: N/A (PY) REPORT PROC ID: N/A
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014 Page 1
ACTUARIAL CERTIFICATION
This report provides disclosure and reporting information as required under Governmental
Accounting Standards Board Statement 68 (GASB 68) for the SAFETY PLAN of the CITY OF PALO
ALTO (the “Plan”), an Agent Multiple-Employer Defined Benefit Pension Plan participating in the
California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS), for the measurement period ended
June 30, 2014. This information should be used for the fiscal year beginning after June 15, 2014 but
ending on or before June 30, 2015.
Determinations for purposes other than financial accounting requirements may be significantly
different from the results in this report. Thus, the use of this report for purposes other than those
expressed here may not be appropriate.
This accounting valuation report relies on liabilities and related validation work performed by the
CalPERS Actuarial Office as part of the June 30, 2013 annual funding valuation for the Plan. The
census data and benefit provisions underlying the liabilities were prepared as of June 30, 2013 and
certified as part of the annual funding valuation by the CalPERS Actuarial Office. The June 30, 2013
liabilities used for this accounting valuation are based on the actuarial assumptions recommended
by the CalPERS Chief Actuary and adopted by the CalPERS Board in February 2014 as laid out in
the 2014 report titled “CalPERS Experience Study and Review of Actuarial Assumptions.” These
liabilities were validated as part of the June 30, 2013 funding valuation that included the estimated
impact of the change in actuarial assumptions on contribution requirements. The undersigned is
relying upon these prescribed assumptions and methods and is not able to render an opinion on
their reasonability, as this would require a substantial amount of additional work beyond the scope of
this report. This report also relies on asset information for the measurement period as supplied by
the CalPERS Financial Office. The fiduciary net position as of June 30, 2014, and the changes in net
position for the year then ended were audited by CalPERS’ independent auditors, Macias Gini &
O’Connell LLP, as part of the audit of the Schedule of Changes in Fiduciary Net Position by
Employer Rate Plan of CalPERS Agent Multiple-Employer Pension Plan.
With the provided liability and asset information, the total pension liability, net pension liability and
pension expense were developed for the measurement period using standard actuarial techniques.
In addition, the results are based on CalPERS’ understanding of the financial accounting and
reporting requirements under U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles as set forth in GASB
68. The information in this report is not intended to supersede the advice and interpretations of the
employer’s auditor. This report may not provide all the information necessary to complete the
required disclosures under GASB 68. The employer should supplement and update the information
in this report with its own financial data as necessary to complete the disclosure information required
by GASB 68.
The undersigned is familiar with the near-term and long-term aspects of pension valuations and
meets the Qualification Standards of the American Academy of Actuaries necessary to render the
actuarial opinions contained herein. The information provided in this report is dependent upon
various factors as documented throughout this report, which may be subject to change. Each section
of this report is considered to be an integral part of the actuarial opinions.
DAVID CLEMENT, ASA, MAAA, EA
Senior Pension Actuary, CalPERS
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 2
Introduction
This is the GASB 68 Accounting Valuation Report to be used for your fiscal year beginning after
June 15, 2014 and ending on or before June 30, 2015 for your SAFETY PLAN (Plan). GASB
Statement No. 68 replaced the requirements of GASB 27 effective for fiscal years beginning after
June 15, 2014.
Statement 68 was issued by GASB in June 2012, requiring public employers to comply with new
accounting and financial reporting standards. Statement 68 outlines a different approach to the
recognition and calculation of pension obligations. Under the new GASB standards, employers that
participate in a defined benefit pension plan administered as a trust or equivalent arrangement are
required to record the net pension liability, pension expense, and deferred outflows/deferred inflows
of resources related to pensions in their financial statements as part of their financial position.
Net pension liability is the plan’s total pension liability based on entry age normal actuarial cost
method less the plan’s fiduciary net position. This may be a negative liability (net pension asset).
Pension expense is the change in net pension liability from the previous fiscal year to the current
fiscal year less adjustments. This may be a negative expense (pension income).
Deferred outflows and deferred inflows of resources related to pensions are certain changes in total
pension liability and fiduciary net position that are to be recognized in future pension expense.
This report may not provide all the information necessary to complete the required disclosures under
GASB 68. The employer should supplement and update the information in this report with its
own financial data as necessary to complete the disclosure information required by GASB 68.
For example, no adjustments have been made for contributions subsequent to the measurement
date. Appropriate accounting treatment of any contributions made after the measurement date is the
responsibility of the employer. CalPERS recommends that the employer consult with its auditor
regarding any such adjustments.
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 3
Purpose of the Report
The Plan participates in the CalPERS agent multiple-employer defined benefit pension plan. This
GASB 68 report provides accounting and financial reporting for pensions, to be used in the
employer’s financial reports. The pension expense is for the measurement period of 2013-14 and the
net pension liability is measured as of June 30, 2014. Liabilities are based on the results of the
actuarial calculations performed as of June 30, 2013 and were rolled forward to June 30, 2014.
Fiduciary net position is based on fair value of investments as of June 30, 2014. Since GASB 68
allows a measurement date of up to 12 months before the employer’s fiscal year-end, this report can
be used for fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2014 and ending on or before June 30, 2015.
The following pension information is disclosed in this report:
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
General Information about the Pension Plan
○ Plan Description, Benefits Provided and Employees Covered
○ Contribution Description
○ Actuarial Methods and Assumptions
○ Discount Rate
○ Pension Plan Fiduciary Net Position
Changes in the Net Pension Liability
○ Sensitivity of the Net Pension Liability
○ Subsequent Events
○ Recognition of Gains and Losses
Pension Expense and Deferred Outflows of Resources and Deferred Inflows of Resources
Related to Pensions
Schedules of Required Supplementary Information (10-Year History1):
○ Schedule of Changes in Net Pension Liability and Related Ratios
○ Schedule of Plan Contributions
The use of this report for other purposes may be inappropriate.
1 Historical information is required only for measurement periods for which GASB 68 is applicable.
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
For purposes of measuring the net pension liability, deferred outflows of resources and deferred
inflows of resources related to pensions, and pension expense, information about the fiduciary net
position of the Plan and additions to/deductions from the Plan’s fiduciary net position have been
determined on the same basis as they are reported by the CalPERS Financial Office. For this
purpose, benefit payments (including refunds of employee contributions) are recognized when
currently due and payable in accordance with the benefit terms. Investments are reported at fair
value.
GASB 68 requires that the reported results must pertain to liability and asset information within
certain defined timeframes. For this report, the following timeframes are used.
Valuation Date (VD) June 30, 2013
Measurement Date (MD) June 30, 2014
Measurement Period (MP) July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2014
General Information about the Pension Plan
Plan Description, Benefits Provided and Employees Covered
The Plan is an agent multiple-employer defined benefit pension plan administered by the California
Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS). A full description of the pension plan regarding
number of employees covered, benefit provisions, assumptions (for funding, but not accounting
purposes), and membership information are listed in the June 30, 2013 Annual Actuarial Valuation
Report. Details of the benefits provided can be obtained in Appendix B of the actuarial valuation
report. This report and CalPERS’ audited financial statements are publicly available reports that can
be obtained at CalPERS’ website under Forms and Publications.
Contribution Description
Section 20814(c) of the California Public Employees’ Retirement Law (PERL) requires that the
employer contribution rates for all public employers be determined on an annual basis by the actuary
and shall be effective on the July 1 following notice of a change in the rate. The total plan
contributions are determined through CalPERS’ annual actuarial valuation process. The actuarially
determined rate is the estimated amount necessary to finance the costs of benefits earned by
employees during the year, with an additional amount to finance any unfunded accrued liability. The
employer is required to contribute the difference between the actuarially determined rate and the
contribution rate of employees. For the measurement period ended June 30, 2014 (the
measurement date), the average active employee contribution rate is 9.029 percent of annual pay,
and the employer’s contribution rate is 34.716 percent of annual payroll. Employer contribution rates
may change if plan contracts are amended. It is the responsibility of the employer to make
necessary accounting adjustments to reflect the impact due to any Employer Paid Member
Contributions or situations where members are paying a portion of the employer contribution.
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 5
Actuarial Methods and Assumptions Used to Determine Total Pension Liability
For the measurement period ended June 30, 2014 (the measurement date), the total pension liability
was determined by rolling forward the June 30, 2013 total pension liability. The June 30, 2013 and
the June 30, 2014 total pension liabilities were based on the following actuarial methods and
assumptions:
Actuarial Cost Method Entry Age Normal in accordance with the requirements of
GASB Statement No. 68
Actuarial Assumptions
Discount Rate 7.50%
Inflation 2.75%
Salary Increases Varies by Entry Age and Service
Investment Rate of Return 7.50% Net of Pension Plan Investment and Administrative
Expenses; includes Inflation
Mortality Rate Table1 Derived using CalPERS’ Membership Data for all Funds
Post Retirement Benefit
Increase
Contract COLA up to 2.75% until Purchasing Power
Protection Allowance Floor on Purchasing Power applies,
2.75% thereafter
1 The mortality table used was developed based on CalPERS’ specific data. The table includes 20 years of
mortality improvements using Society of Actuaries Scale BB. For more details on this table, please refer to the
2014 experience study report.
All other actuarial assumptions used in the June 30, 2013 valuation were based on the results of an
actuarial experience study for the period from 1997 to 2011, including updates to salary increase,
mortality and retirement rates. The Experience Study report can be obtained at CalPERS’ website
under Forms and Publications.
Discount Rate
The discount rate used to measure the total pension liability was 7.50 percent. To determine whether
the municipal bond rate should be used in the calculation of a discount rate for each plan, CalPERS
stress tested plans that would most likely result in a discount rate that would be different from the
actuarially assumed discount rate. Based on the testing, none of the tested plans run out of assets.
Therefore, the current 7.50 percent discount rate is adequate and the use of the municipal bond rate
calculation is not necessary. The long-term expected discount rate of 7.50 percent is applied to all
plans in the Public Employees Retirement Fund. The stress test results are presented in a detailed
report called “GASB Crossover Testing Report” that can be obtained at CalPERS’ website under the
GASB 68 section.
According to Paragraph 30 of Statement 68, the long-term discount rate should be determined
without reduction for pension plan administrative expense. The 7.50 percent investment return
assumption used in this accounting valuation is net of administrative expenses. Administrative
expenses are assumed to be 15 basis points. An investment return excluding administrative
expenses would have been 7.65 percent. Using this lower discount rate has resulted in a slightly
higher total pension liability and net pension liability. This difference was deemed immaterial to the
agent multiple-employer plan. However, employers may determine the impact at the rate plan level
for their own financial reporting purposes. Refer to page 8 of this report, which provides information
on the sensitivity of the net pension liability to changes in the discount rate.
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 6
CalPERS is scheduled to review all actuarial assumptions as part of its regular Asset Liability
Management review cycle that is scheduled to be completed in February 2018. Any changes to the
discount rate will require Board action and proper stakeholder outreach. For these reasons,
CalPERS expects to continue using a discount rate net of administrative expenses for GASB 67 and
68 calculations through at least the 2017-18 fiscal year. CalPERS will continue to check the
materiality of the difference in calculation until such time as we have changed our methodology.
The long-term expected rate of return on pension plan investments was determined using a building-
block method in which best-estimate ranges of expected future real rates of return (expected returns,
net of pension plan investment expense and inflation) are developed for each major asset class.
In determining the long-term expected rate of return, staff took into account both short-term and
long-term market return expectations as well as the expected pension fund cash flows. Such cash
flows were developed assuming that both members and employers will make their required
contributions on time and as scheduled in all future years. Using historical returns of all the funds’
asset classes, expected compound (geometric) returns were calculated over the short-term (first 10
years) and the long-term (11-60 years) using a building-block approach. Using the expected
nominal returns for both short-term and long-term, the present value of benefits was calculated for
each fund. The expected rate of return was set by calculating the single equivalent expected return
that arrived at the same present value of benefits for cash flows as the one calculated using both
short-term and long-term returns. The expected rate of return was then set equivalent to the single
equivalent rate calculated above and rounded down to the nearest one quarter of one percent.
The table below reflects long-term expected real rate of return by asset class. The rate of return was
calculated using the capital market assumptions applied to determine the discount rate and asset
allocation. These geometric rates of return are net of administrative expenses.
Asset Class New Strategic
Allocation
Real Return
Years 1 - 101
Real Return
Years 11+2
Global Equity 47.0% 5.25% 5.71%
Global Fixed Income 19.0 0.99 2.43
Inflation Sensitive 6.0 0.45 3.36
Private Equity 12.0 6.83 6.95
Real Estate 11.0 4.50 5.13
Infrastructure and Forestland 3.0 4.50 5.09
Liquidity 2.0 (0.55) (1.05)
1An expected inflation of 2.5% used for this period
2An expected inflation of 3.0% used for this period
Pension Plan Fiduciary Net Position
The plan fiduciary net position disclosed in your GASB 68 accounting valuation report may differ
from the plan assets reported in your funding actuarial valuation report due to several reasons. First,
for the accounting valuations, CalPERS must keep items such as deficiency reserves, fiduciary self-
insurance and OPEB expense included as assets. These amounts are excluded for rate setting
purposes in your funding actuarial valuation. In addition, differences may result from early
Comprehensive Annual Financial Report closing and final reconciled reserves.
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 7
Changes in the Net Pension Liability
The following table shows the changes in net pension liability recognized over the measurement
period.
Increase (Decrease)
Total Pension
Liability
Plan Fiduciary Net
Position
Net Pension
Liability/(Asset)
(a) (b) (c) = (a) - (b)
Balance at: 6/30/2013 (VD)1 $ 355,054,289 $ 234,152,906 $ 120,901,383
Changes Recognized for the
Measurement Period:
Service Cost 6,221,042 6,221,042
Interest on the Total
Pension Liability
26,112,921
26,112,921
Changes of Benefit
Terms 0 0
Differences between
Expected and Actual
Experience
0
0
Changes of Assumptions 0 0
Contributions from the
Employer 7,615,779 (7,615,779)
Contributions from
Employees 2,762,215 (2,762,215)
Net Investment Income2 40,033,488 (40,033,488)
Benefit Payments,
including Refunds of
Employee Contributions
(19,985,106)
(19,985,106)
0
Net Changes during 2013-14 $ 12,348,857 $ 30,426,376 $ (18,077,519)
Balance at: 6/30/2014 (MD)1 $ 367,403,146 $ 264,579,282 $ 102,823,864
1 The fiduciary net position includes receivables for employee service buybacks, deficiency reserves, fiduciary
self-insurance and OPEB expense. As described on Page 6, this may differ from the plan assets reported in
the funding actuarial valuation report.
2 Net of administrative expenses. For details, see note in Appendix B-2.
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 8
Sensitivity of the Net Pension Liability to Changes in the Discount Rate
The following presents the net pension liability of the Plan as of the measurement date, calculated
using the discount rate of 7.50 percent, as well as what the net pension liability would be if it were
calculated using a discount rate that is 1 percentage-point lower (6.50 percent) or 1 percentage-point
higher (8.50 percent) than the current rate:
Discount Rate - 1%
(6.50%)
Current Discount
Rate (7.50%)
Discount Rate + 1%
(8.50%)
Plan's Net Pension
Liability/(Asset) $ 148,419,847 $ 102,823,864 $ 64,946,625
Subsequent Events
There were no subsequent events that would materially affect the results presented in this
disclosure.
Recognition of Gains and Losses
Under GASB 68, gains and losses related to changes in total pension liability and fiduciary net
position are recognized in pension expense systematically over time.
The first amortized amounts are recognized in pension expense for the year the gain or loss occurs.
The remaining amounts are categorized as deferred outflows and deferred inflows of resources
related to pensions and are to be recognized in future pension expense.
The amortization period differs depending on the source of the gain or loss:
Difference between projected
and actual earnings
5 year straight-line amortization
All other amounts Straight-line amortization over the average expected
remaining service lives of all members that are provided
with benefits (active, inactive, and retired) as of the
beginning of the measurement period
The expected average remaining service lifetime (EARSL) is calculated by dividing the total future
service years by the total number of plan participants (active, inactive, and retired).
The EARSL for the Plan for the 2013-14 measurement period is 3.3 years, which was obtained by
dividing the total service years of 2,232 (the sum of remaining service lifetimes of the active
employees) by 676 (the total number of participants: active, inactive, and retired). Note that inactive
employees and retirees have remaining service lifetimes equal to 0. Also note that total future
service is based on the members’ probability of decrementing due to an event other than receiving a
cash refund.
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 9
Pension Expense and Deferred Outflows and
Deferred Inflows of Resources Related to Pensions
Paragraph 137 of GASB 68 and Questions 267 and 268 of the GASB 68 Implementation Guide set
forth guidance on implementing the standard. The employer should use this guidance for the
adjusting entries concerning the net pension obligation and the initial net pension liability/(asset). As
of the start of the measurement period (July 1, 2013), the net pension liability/(asset) is
$120,901,383.
For the measurement period ending June 30, 2014 (the measurement date), the CITY OF PALO
ALTO incurred a pension expense/(income) of $7,861,040 for the Plan (see Appendix B-2 for the
complete breakdown of the pension expense).
Note that no adjustments have been made for contributions subsequent to the measurement date.
Adequate treatment of any contributions made after the measurement date is the responsibility of
the employer.
As of June 30, 2014, the CITY OF PALO ALTO has deferred outflows and deferred inflows of
resources related to pensions as follows:
Deferred Outflows of
Resources
Deferred Inflows of
Resources
Differences between Expected and
Actual Experience $ 0 $ 0
Changes of Assumptions 0 0
Net Difference between Projected and
Actual Earnings on Pension Plan
Investments 0 (18,322,780)
Total $ 0 $ (18,322,780)
The amounts above are net of outflows and inflows recognized in the 2013-14 measurement period
expense.
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 10
Amounts reported as deferred outflows and deferred inflows of resources related to pensions will be
recognized in future pension expense as follows:
Measurement Period
Ended June 30:
Deferred
Outflows/(Inflows) of
Resources
2015 $ (4,580,695)
2016 (4,580,695)
2017 (4,580,695)
2018 (4,580,695)
2019 0
Thereafter 0
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 11
Schedules of Required Supplementary Information
Schedule of Changes in Net Pension Liability and Related Ratios
During the Measurement Period
1 Historical information is required only for measurement periods for which GASB 68 is applicable.
2 Net of administrative expenses. For details, see note in Appendix B-2.
Notes to Schedule:
Benefit Changes: The figures above do not include any liability impact that may have resulted from
plan changes which occurred after June 30, 2013. This applies for voluntary benefit changes as well
as any offers of Two Years Additional Service Credit (a.k.a. Golden Handshakes).
Changes of Assumptions: There were no changes in assumptions.
Measurement Period 2013-141
TOTAL PENSION LIABILITY
Service Cost $ 6,221,042
Interest 26,112,921
Changes of Benefit Terms 0
Difference Between Expected and Actual Experience 0
Changes of Assumptions 0
Benefit Payments, Including Refunds of Employee Contributions (19,985,106)
Net Change in Total Pension Liability 12,348,857
Total Pension Liability – Beginning 355,054,289
Total Pension Liability – Ending (a) $ 367,403,146
PLAN FIDUCIARY NET POSITION
Contributions – Employer $ 7,615,779
Contributions – Employee 2,762,215
Net Investment Income2 40,033,488
Benefit Payments, Including Refunds of Employee Contributions (19,985,106)
Other Changes in Fiduciary Net Position 0
Net Change in Fiduciary Net Position 30,426,376
Plan Fiduciary Net Position – Beginning 234,152,906
Plan Fiduciary Net Position – Ending (b) $ 264,579,282
Plan Net Pension Liability/(Asset) – Ending (a) - (b) $ 102,823,864
Plan Fiduciary Net Position as a Percentage of the Total Pension Liability 72.01%
Covered-Employee Payroll $ 21,895,824
Plan Net Pension Liability/(Asset) as a Percentage of Covered-Employee
Payroll 469.60%
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
Page 12
Schedule of Plan Contributions1
Fiscal Year 2013-14
Actuarially Determined Contribution2 $ 7,615,779
Contributions in Relation to the Actuarially Determined Contribution2 (7,615,779)
Contribution Deficiency (Excess) $ 0
Covered-Employee Payroll3, 4 $ 21,895,824
Contributions as a Percentage of Covered-Employee Payroll3 34.78%
1 Historical information is required only for measurement periods for which GASB 68 is applicable.
2 Employers are assumed to make contributions equal to the actuarially determined contributions. However,
some employers may choose to make additional contributions towards their unfunded liability. Employer
contributions for such plans exceed the actuarially determined contributions.
3 Covered-Employee Payroll represented above is based on pensionable earnings provided by the employer.
However, GASB 68 defines covered-employee payroll as the total payroll of employees that are provided
pensions through the pension plan. Accordingly, if pensionable earnings are different than total earnings for
covered-employees, the employer should display in the disclosure footnotes the payroll based on total
earnings for the covered group and recalculate the required payroll-related ratios.
4 Payroll from prior year $21,258,082 was assumed to increase by the 3.00 percent payroll growth assumption.
Notes to Schedule:
The actuarial methods and assumptions used to set the actuarially determined contributions for
Fiscal Year 2013-14 were from the June 30, 2011 public agency valuations.
Actuarial Cost Method Entry Age Normal
Amortization Method/Period For details, see June 30, 2011 Funding Valuation Report.
Asset Valuation Method Actuarial Value of Assets. For details, see June 30, 2011
Funding Valuation Report.
Inflation 2.75%
Salary Increases Varies by Entry Age and Service
Payroll Growth 3.00%
Investment Rate of Return 7.50% Net of Pension Plan Investment and Administrative
Expenses; includes Inflation.
Retirement Age The probabilities of Retirement are based on the 2010 CalPERS
Experience Study for the period from 1997 to 2007.
Mortality The probabilities of mortality are based on the 2010 CalPERS
Experience Study for the period from 1997 to 2007. Pre-
retirement and Post-retirement mortality rates include 5 years of
projected mortality improvement using Scale AA published by the
Society of Actuaries.
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A – DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES AND DEFERRED INFLOWS OF
RESOURCES RELATED TO PENSIONS
APPENDIX B – INTEREST, TOTAL PROJECTED EARNINGS AND PENSION
EXPENSE/(INCOME)
APPENDIX A
DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES AND DEFERRED
INFLOWS OF RESOURCES RELATED TO PENSIONS
SCHEDULE OF DIFFERENCES BETWEEN EXPECTED AND ACTUAL EXPERIENCE
DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES AND DEFERRED INFLOWS OF RESOURCES FOR
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN EXPECTED AND ACTUAL EXPERIENCE
SCHEDULE OF CHANGES OF ASSUMPTIONS
DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES AND DEFERRED INFLOWS OF RESOURCES FOR
CHANGES OF ASSUMPTIONS
SCHEDULE OF DIFFERENCES BETWEEN PROJECTED AND ACTUAL EARNINGS ON
PENSION PLAN INVESTMENTS
DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES AND DEFERRED INFLOWS OF RESOURCES FOR
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN PROJECTED AND ACTUAL EARNINGS ON PENSION PLAN
INVESTMENTS
SUMMARY OF RECOGNIZED DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES AND DEFERRED
INFLOWS OF RESOURCES
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
A-1
Schedule of differences between expected and actual experience
Increase (Decrease) in Pension Expense Arising from the Recognition of the Effects
of Differences between Expected and Actual Experience
(Measurement Periods)
Measurement
Period
Differences
between
Expected and
Actual Experience
Recognition
Period
(Years) 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 Thereafter
2013-14 $0 3.3 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Net Increase (Decrease) in Pension
Expense
$0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
A-2
Deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources arising from differences between expected and actual experience
Balances at June 30, 2014
Measurement
Period
Experience
Losses
Experience
Gains
Amounts Recognized in
Pension Expense
through June 30, 2014
Deferred
Outflows of
Resources
Deferred
Inflows of
Resources
(a) (b) (c) (a) - (c) (b) - (c)
2013-14
$0
$0 $0
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
A-3
Schedule of changes of assumptions
Increase (Decrease) in Pension Expense Arising from the
Recognition of the Effects of Changes of Assumptions
(Measurement Periods)
Measurement
Period
Changes of
Assumptions
Recognition
Period
(Years) 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 Thereafter
2013-14 $0 3.3 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Net Increase (Decrease) in Pension
Expense
$0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
A-4
Deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources arising from changes of assumptions
Balances at June 30, 2014
Measurement
Period
Increase in
Total Pension
Liability
Decrease in
Total Pension
Liability
Amounts Recognized in
Pension Expense through
June 30, 2014
Deferred
Outflows of
Resources
Deferred
Inflows of
Resources
(a) (b) (c) (a) - (c) (b) - (c)
2013-14
$0
$0 $0
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
A-5
Schedule of differences between projected and actual earnings on pension plan investments
Increase (Decrease) in Pension Expense Arising from the Recognition of
Differences between Projected and Actual Earnings on Pension Plan Investments
(Measurement Periods)
Measurement
Period
Differences
between
Projected and
Actual Earnings
on Pension Plan
Investments
Recognition
Period
(Years) 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 Thereafter
2013-14 $(22,903,475) 5.0 $(4,580,695) $(4,580,695) $(4,580,695) $(4,580,695) $(4,580,695) $0 $0
Net Increase (Decrease) in
Pension Expense
$(4,580,695) $(4,580,695) $(4,580,695) $(4,580,695) $(4,580,695) $0 $0
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
A-6
Deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources arising from differences between projected and actual earnings on pension
plan investments
Balances at June 30, 2014
Measurement
Period
Investment
Earnings less
than Projected
Investment
Earnings greater
than Projected
Amounts Recognized in
Pension Expense
through June 30, 2014
Deferred
Outflows of
Resources
Deferred
Inflows of
Resources
(a) (b) (c) (a) - (c) (b) - (c)
2013-14
$(22,903,475) $(4,580,695)
$(18,322,780)
$0 $(18,322,780)
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
A-7
Summary of recognized deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources
Net Increase (Decrease) in Pension Expense (Measurement Periods)
2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 Thereafter
Differences between
Expected and Actual
Experience $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Changes of
Assumptions 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Differences between
Projected and Actual
Earnings on Pension
Plan Investments (4,580,695) (4,580,695) (4,580,695) (4,580,695) (4,580,695) 0 0
Grand Total $(4,580,695) $(4,580,695) $(4,580,695) $(4,580,695) $(4,580,695) $0 $0
APPENDIX B
INTEREST, TOTAL PROJECTED EARNINGS AND
PENSION EXPENSE/(INCOME)
INTEREST ON TOTAL PENSION LIABILITY AND TOTAL PROJECTED EARNINGS
PENSION EXPENSE/(INCOME)
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014 B-1
Interest on Total Pension Liability and Total Projected Earnings
Interest on the Total Pension Liability Amount for Period
Portion of
Period Interest Rate
Interest on the Total
Pension Liability
(a) (b) (c) (a) X (b) X (c)
Beginning Total Pension Liability $ 355,054,289 100% 7.5% $ 26,629,072
Service Cost 6,221,042 50% 7.5% 233,290
Benefit Payments, including Refunds of Employee Contributions (19,985,106) 50% 7.5% (749,441)
Total Interest on the Total Pension Liability
$ 26,112,921
Projected Earnings on Pension Plan Investments Amount for Period
Portion of
Period
Projected Rate
of Return
Projected Earnings
(a) (b) (c) (a) X (b) X (c)
Beginning Plan Fiduciary Net Position excluding Receivables1 $ 233,203,719 100% 7.5% $ 17,490,279
Employer Contributions 7,615,779 50% 7.5% 285,592
Employee Contributions 2,762,215 50% 7.5% 103,583
Benefit Payments, including Refunds of Employee Contributions (19,985,106) 50% 7.5% (749,441)
Total Projected Earnings
$ 17,130,013
1 Contributions receivable for employee service buybacks, totaling $949,187 as of June 30, 2013, are excluded for purposes of calculating projected earnings on
pension plan investments.
GASB 68 ACCOUNTING VALUATION REPORT
Prepared for the CITY OF PALO ALTO – SAFETY PLAN
CalPERS ID: 6373437857
Prepared as of the Measurement Date of June 30, 2014
B-2
Pension Expense/(Income) for Measurement Period Ended June 30, 2014
Description Amount
Service Cost $ 6,221,042
Interest on the Total Pension Liability 26,112,921
Changes of Benefit Terms 0
Recognized Differences between Expected and Actual Experience 0
Recognized Changes of Assumptions 0
Employee Contributions (2,762,215)
Projected Earnings on Pension Plan Investments (17,130,013)
Recognized Differences between Projected and Actual Earnings on Plan Investments (4,580,695)
Other Changes in Fiduciary Net Position 0
Total Pension Expense/(Income) $ 7,861,040
Note: Plan administrative expenses are not displayed in the above pension expense table. Since the expected investment return of
7.50 percent is net of administrative expenses, administrative expenses are excluded from the above table, but implicitly included as
part of investment earnings.
FINANCE COMMITTEE
EXCERPT
Page 1 of 28
Special Meeting
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
Chairperson Schmid called the meeting to order at 6:04 P.M. in the
Community Meeting Room, 250 Hamilton Avenue, Palo Alto, California.
Present: Filseth, Kniss arrived at 6:36 P.M., Scharff, Schmid (Chair)
Absent:
Oral Communications
Chair Schmid: First order is anyone from the public who wants to speak. I
have no cards. Let's move on to the first action item.
Agenda Items
1.New Pension Reporting Standards Government Accounting Standards
Board Statement Number 68 (GASB 68).
Chair Schmid: New Pension Reporting Standards. Lalo.
David Ramberg, Assistant Director of Administrative Services: Good
evening, Chair and Members of the Finance Committee. My name's David
Ramberg, excuse me. I'm the Assistant Director of the Administrative
Service Department. Tonight, I am presenting new pension reporting
requirements that will impact the City's financial statements. This is a
preview of the Government Accounting Standards Board's 68 information
that will be included in more detail in the Comprehensive Annual Financial
Report that you'll see in November. Tonight's just a preview of the figures
to come. The reporting requirements are established by the Government
Accounting Standards Board; that's also known as GASB. We refer to these
new standards as GASB 68. I want to make very clear that it is a reporting
change only, and there's no new financial impact to the City. I'll explain
that. Let's see. The City's total pension liability is $289 million in Fiscal Year
2015 which will be reported in the CAFR that you'll see in November. A
share of the liability is allocated to the Enterprise Funds and to all other
funds based on employee pension expense. This slide shows you, Slide 4,
what that allocation looks like. Of that 289 million, you can see that the
General Fund's share is 197 million, and the Electric Fund is the next largest
share at 26 million. The remaining funds represent about 55.6 million of the
Attachment B
TRANSCRIPT
Page 2 of 28
Finance Committee Special Meeting
Transcript 10/20/2015
289 million. These amounts do not impact the ability of the funds to
maintain positive cash flow, since these amounts are amortized over 30
years and the City already pays the annual required contribution. With that
brief presentation, I'd like to say in conclusion the new pension reporting
requirements from GASB will report the total pension liability at the entity
and fund levels in the upcoming CAFR, but will have no impact on existing
expenses. I want to make that very clear. These will not be new expenses
in the Budget document; these will simply be in the Comprehensive Annual
Financial Report which you'll see in November. I'd like to continue the
presentation by turning it over to our external auditor from MGO. David
Bullock is here, and they've provided the City with guidance as we've
incorporated these new GASB requirements. He'll explain that.
David Bullock, MGO Partner: Thank you, David. When David and Lalo asked
me to come, I wasn't sure exactly what I wanted to present. I don't want to
over-complicate things. I think the key to the implementation is that it's a
reporting matter. It's getting the information out to the users so they
understand it and its impact, your pension impact, to the organization.
You've always reported the information in your CAFR; it's been there. The
schedule of funding progress would kind of give you an idea of where you're
at in terms of funding your pension. It was always a year or two behind
schedule, because it takes a while for the actuaries to come up with the
information to present. As GASB changed the requirements, trying to
improve transparency, bringing that liability onto the financial statements;
and also improving the disclosures and some of the trend information,
requiring ten years of trend information versus just three; trying to improve
the information available to users, so they understand the impacts of it. The
other thing it does is it makes you much more comparable to other
organizations. Under the old method, you get to choose from six different
attribution methods. The actuary could use different methods to calculate
the obligation. A lot of the assumptions were more policy decisions; they
were decisions made that would affect the liability on how you are funding it,
but not really economically how the plan was actually—where your position
was. With these improvements, it's very simple. The actuary takes the
liability and calculates that out with their estimates and discounts that back
to the measurement date, and then they look at what you set aside in your
pension trust fund and compare the two. That's your net pension liability.
There isn't all of the actuarial involvement in coming up with smoothing of
investments and so forth in those assets. It's a very simple calculation. The
other kind of complexity, if you will, is that the measurement date is
different than your reporting date. You don't often find that in financial
statements. You like to either get the fair market value or some historical
measurement, but we're actually using a period of time that's a year
previous to the fiscal year. When you get your June 30th CAFR next month,
TRANSCRIPT
Page 3 of 28
Finance Committee Special Meeting
Transcript 10/20/2015
it's going to be reporting your pension liability as of June 30, 2014.
Unfortunately, that's just the earliest that information is available to you as
the employer, because CalPERS has to go through their process of giving
you the information, and it just takes a lot of time. We're the auditors of
CalPERS, our firm is, so I kind of have a little bit of inside information. My
understanding is they're going to try and improve the timeline, because the
City didn't even get this information until July, actually after year end. We
worked pretty closely with the City to pull the information together timely.
Next year, it's supposed to come in the spring or maybe earlier. Maybe this
February or March or something, you'll have that information, and you'll
have more time to absorb it and get it reported into your financial
statements. This year, it all happened after year end, just because of the
timing and implementation. With that, I'll turn it over to any questions you
may have.
Chair Schmid: Council Members, reactions, questions?
Council Member Filseth: Want me to go first?
Chair Schmid: Sure.
Council Member Filseth: Thank you very much for doing this. If I
understand what you said, this is basically a reporting change. There's not
any new action that we're taking that changes the numbers. In fact, there's
not any really recalculation of the numbers or anything like that as well. It's
the unfunded liability discounted back to the present, but also still assuming
the baseline assumptions on CalPERS investment returns and on sort of the
rate at which wages increase in the City of Palo Alto. Is that right?
Mr. Bullock: Yeah. They take into account those under the assumptions.
I'm not an actuary, so I'm not going to be able to give you a real good
description on that. Just to take one step back, CalPERS, it didn't change
the way you contribute to the plan. You're going to still continue to
contribute normal costs and making up for some of that unfunded liability.
It did drive some policy changes at CalPERS, so there could be operational
impacts down the road if investments don't perform well and they have to
raise those contribution rates. They did make policy changes, because what
they didn't want to have happen was crossover date; a date at which point
the assets in the trust wouldn't be sufficient to pay those benefits. They
made some policy changes to avoid having a crossover date. There could
potentially be impacts down the road on how they develop the contributions.
In terms of what really changed, the substance of how you make the
contributions and how you fund the plan didn't really change. What changed
is the reporting of that information in your financial statements.
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Council Member Filseth: Now we'll see this broken out by fund, excuse me,
as opposed to in a footnote somewhere, I think is where it used to be or
something like that.
Mr. Bullock: Just a little bit of a clarification. It says General Fund up there.
I think what you'll end up seeing—it's not going to be reported in your
General Fund per se. You're still going to have fund accounting. You're still
going to report your fund balance, which is going to line up with your
Budget. What's going to happen is when you convert that General Fund to
the government-wide financial statements, the entity-wide financial
statements, under governmental activities is where you're going to see the
impact to your governmental funds, the Public Safety, Public Works and all
the personnel that are in those governmental activities, versus the
Enterprise Funds. You will actually see them in your individual Enterprise
Funds, because the liability is following payroll. Wherever you're reporting
payroll, that's where that net pension liability is going to.
Mr. Ramberg: It'll show up specifically in the statement of net position.
We'll show that when we bring the CAFR back in November. We'll show you
where these new lines line up. We've gone into quite a bit of explanation in
the management discussion and analysis, which is the lead-in to the CAFR.
If you read that, we'll have some new language in there that calls out the
GASB 68 reporting and specifically where that's added to the Comprehensive
Annual Financial Report.
Chair Schmid: Could I do a follow-up? Is it going to show up in our Budget
by department? Will it affect those numbers at all?
Lalo Perez, Chief Financial Officer and Director of Administrative Services:
No, it does not reflect that way. As David Bullock was saying, the normal
annual required contribution doesn't change. That will show, but this new
format does not reflect in the Budget.
Chair Schmid: That is shown by department and by Enterprise Fund?
Mr. Perez: Yes. The normal annual required contribution is distributed by ...
Chair Schmid: It's just per employee.
Mr. Perez: I'm sorry, I didn't hear the last part.
Chair Schmid: That's by employee.
Mr. Perez: We bill it per salary, so FTE, employee, yeah.
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Chair Schmid: This breakdown here will not affect the number that shows
up in our Budget?
Mr. Perez: Correct.
Chair Schmid: Sorry.
Council Member Filseth: You said something that sort of led into another
question I wanted to ask. You said very briefly, you made a reference to it's
good to have this kind of information at your fingertips when you're making
management decisions that impact it. I think you said something like that.
I think that's right. I think as we try to get a hold of this, I think that's—
because we make decisions all the time that impact the size of this. This is
really a question for you guys. One thing that it seems like it ought to be
possible to do, but we just never have seen done, is it seems like we ought
to be able to calculate this at any given point in time. I mean, we know who
all the employees are, we know how long they've been with the City and sort
of what their wages are, and which plan they're on and so forth. Yeah,
there's 1,000 employees in the City, but we've got computers and stuff like
that. It seems like it ought to be possible to sort of calculate this stuff in
real time. Particularly, let's say we hire somebody. Every time we hire
somebody, they're going to get a wage, and they're going to get an
expected wage growth over some period of time, and they're going to work
for so many years, and they're going to get a pension at some age, and then
they're going to collect their pension for some number. It seems like it
ought to be possible to calculate the unfunded pension liability of each
individual at the time we hire them, probably also later on in their career
too. At the time we hire them, it seems like it ought to be possible to do
that. Do we ever do that or does any city ever do that?
Mr. Perez: I'll see if David has a comment as well. I haven't heard of a city
doing that from a finance perspective. I don't know from an HR perspective.
Suzanne may have some experience. I guess what I can say is the
assumption is that the potential unfunded liability for a third tier, that's like
the last tier that was implemented, is going to be much less than the original
two.
Council Member Scharff: (crosstalk) follow-up to that.
Council Member Filseth: Of course, but it's still not zero.
Mr. Perez: There's various assumptions, so we would have to run it. It is an
actuarial calculation that we would have to run. I think we would have to,
one, either use the CalPERS assumptions or modify them to what we believe
they may be in a scenario. We would say run it with the CalPERS
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assumptions, and then let's modify them to what we believe the return
should be, for example if we don't agree with the return. Then it also
depends on whether that person is really going to stay with us or not,
because an individual—now that we have changed the structure of the
medical package for retirement, we're seeing a different type of turnover. In
the days—I was telling Suzanne—before 2004 we were getting a lot of
people coming in here that were very seasoned in experience, because they
knew that all they had to do is if they had five years in the system, all they
had to do was work one day and get fully vested benefits in Palo Alto. You
saw a different type of attraction of person and a different reason that
people were coming or staying. Now that there's less of that incentive, it's a
different scenario.
Council Member Filseth: I suppose that would sort of be sort of like your
actuarial calculation is how much time an individual is likely to stay with the
City. Are they going to stay 30 years or 15 or what's the average expected
(inaudible)? It seems like you ought to be able to calculate all that out and
make an estimate. It might not be accurate for each individual employee to
some level, but over large numbers of employees it might be. Is there any
precedent for people doing that?
Suzanne Mason, Assistant City Manager: I think you can look at it in a
number of ways. I think it's a good question. Probably not by the individual
in your books, because their future is unpredictable. Most agencies have a
different historical look based on their benefit packages, as Lalo said. One
agency may typically have very long-term employees, and others may have
a shorter-term employee. You can hire someone senior in their career, and
the City's going to have a very short probably liability, a five to ten-year
liability, as opposed to someone earlier in their career who may stay with
you for 30 years. It's hard to predict. What you could do is model different
types of employees at different salaries based on—in our actuarial report,
you can see the average of our typical—in our actuarial report it shows the
average number of years someone stays here, how many retirees we have,
the average salary or their average retirement benefit. You can do that
modeling. You can also model different types of employees coming at
different stages in their career. I think the one thing that we're going to be
challenged with is how the new PEPRA retirement interplays and the new
millennial employee who is more apt to move more times in their career.
They're not the long-term employee. When I started in 1984 ...
Council Member Filseth: IBM, lives at work forever and retires at
(inaudible).
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Ms. Mason: I think all those things are unpredictable, but we can look at our
average history and look at some of the changes. We can look at the last
five years and share with you what we're seeing.
Council Member Filseth: I'm thinking about (inaudible). By the way, do you
want to ask a question in the middle of this or come back?
Council Member Scharff: I did. It was a follow-up to your ... You were
talking about modeling each individual employee. I guess the question is—
there's an unfunded liability that comes with each employee, the way we're
currently doing it. We hire someone, and it's a different unfunded liability if
they're Tier 3, Tier 2 or Tier 1. What I'm wondering a little bit about is if we
start saying to ourselves every employee we hire, this is what it's really
costing the City in terms of—do we then look at that and say we're going to
put, I think what you talked about earlier was let's put aside some money to
deal with that on an ongoing basis. We may also say to ourselves how do
we compensate those employees. Do we say we compensate the Tier 3 in
cash in a different way than we compensate the Tier 2 and the Tier 1? I
think it's time we started thinking about how do we align our employee
structure so that it works for the City. I think there's concerns about—I'm
fascinated when you say the millennials will jump. They may or may not. I
don't know if we have any data on this, if millennials who choose to work for
government. Everything I'm reading these days actually says the millennials
are no different than anyone else. It's just that they have different
opportunities. They're actually starting to move to the suburbs and starting
to buy houses. I mean, every generation thinks it's a unique generation and
the world has changed and this time it's different. I'm not convinced. What
I am convinced is right now we have very seasoned employees in Palo Alto
who could all retire. Maybe not all of them, but I mean a large number
could retire, take a different pension and go get another job with that. At
some point, you do that financial calculus and it makes more sense for them
to do that. The question is how do we start to align bringing people in and
with a career path that then makes sense on an organization level. I think
that's a challenge; I don't think any city's done that. I think it's an
interesting question. I wanted to come back to the other stuff.
Council Member Filseth: You're sort of going the same direction we're sort
of going in here, which is we're used to working in—some of us are newbies
to City government, working here. We're used to an environment—when
you incur a liability, I mean you're supposed to recognize when (inaudible).
When we hire somebody, to the extent there is a long-term liability that
comes with that person, normally you recognize that somewhere. You put it
in an account somewhere. Maybe you set aside money for it, maybe you
don't. At least, you recognize at that point we're going to accrue this long-
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term liability. At the time that we make decisions, it's—as we were going
through the budgeting process back in May, we said the City's going to hire
14 people or something like that. One thing we didn't say there, we saw
here's how much it's going to cost next year with these people. One thing
we didn't see was here's the impact on the City's unfunded pension liability if
we hire 14 people as opposed to 12 or 15.
Ms. Mason: I do want to make one point. We get a blended rate from
PERS. They're not breaking it out. They're looking at all the different
employees we have and the different tiers and what their percent of payroll
is, and they give us a blended rate. That's one thing. It is difficult to—a lot
of the unfunded liability is from the past. It's not the go-forward. We do
have an average ...
Council Member Scharff: That's interesting. I had no idea. On a going
forward basis, you're saying we hire someone, there's not an unfunded
liability?
Ms. Mason: There's the normal cost which is the go forward. If this person
with no gains or losses in investments, if this person's going to retire in what
the actuary projects—actually John Bartel is probably a better person to walk
through this; he'll be here on November 3rd. That employee walks in with
no prior liability, the unfunded liability that is coming from the past,
investment losses and changes in formulas and things of that nature that
were not funded. They were mostly investment losses.
Council Member Scharff: That was really going to be one of my questions.
When we look at the General Fund, why is it 68 percent when the Electric
Fund is 9 percent? What's causing these disparities?
Ms. Mason: I'll let Lalo talk to it. It's a percent of payroll. That's really
what you're looking at.
Council Member Filseth: Before we go there, I want to make sure I
understand what you just said. If I understand what you just said, you said
that the next person we hire, assuming they come in—Tier 3 is the current
one, right? There is not an unfunded liability associated with that person?
That's not actually—really?
Ms. Mason: There is a projected cost, and I'll let Lalo talk to it. That's why
your different tiers have a different cost.
Council Member Filseth: To be obsessively, obsessively explicit here. If you
sort of look at what that person's going to—we're going to give that person
as their pension, sort of net present value of all that, and you take the net
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present value of all their contributions to their pension up until that time,
they're not going to add up to—the City's still going to have to cover some of
it. That's the unfunded liability.
Mr. Perez: Right. That's why I was caveating at the beginning. John Bartel
will tell you that it's zero for Tier 3. That is because we would assume that
we agree with the CalPERS ...
Council Member Filseth: CalPERS 7 1/2 percent investment return.
Mr. Perez: And all the other assumptions. That's why ...
Council Member Filseth: Whatever the assumption on wage growth is, the
actuary would say that actually it's covered for that person.
Mr. Perez: Correct. That's why I was saying you may have a different
opinion, so we would run it that way. We would run it what if there was a 6
return and whatever other variables you wanted to change. From a starting
standpoint, the assumption is that the fund is going to pay 67 percent of the
pension via returns on investments. The other portion—what is it? 6 1/4 is
paid by the employee, and then the rest is paid by the employer.
Chair Schmid: Let me ask a follow-up on that. Suppose someone comes in
his 20th year of employment with CalPERS. He's somewhere else; he comes
here. We assume the future. At some point in the future, the CalPERS said,
"We made a mistake about longevity. People are living two years longer
than we thought, which creates an unfunded liability." Who's responsible for
covering that?
Mr. Perez: That's spread over the period of service years. Let's say that
they had 20 somewhere else, and we get five. It's proportionally split
among those years.
Chair Schmid: Someone can leave Palo Alto, but we might get hit with an
unfunded liability 30 years later if he's somewhere else.
Mr. Perez: Yes. The way it would work; let's say that—I'm making up an
example—they've worked 20 years here. They left making 120,000. They
went and worked five years somewhere else, and they close out either a
three-year or single year highest at 200,000, then our 20 is at the 200. Not
at the number that they left us.
Chair Schmid: Do we pay more if people come here later in their career or if
they leave here and go elsewhere late in their career? Which is the greater
liability for us?
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Ms. Mason: You're going to have a shorter time—it's all based on the time
they're with your agency. I was 25 years in Long Beach when I retired.
Long Beach will pick up 25 years, and they paid in for the years I was there
based on my projected retirement.
Chair Schmid: The years they're here, their salaries are much higher, and
their pension payments are based on their final salaries.
Ms. Mason: Let's say I stay ten years here, and I'm at 2 percent at 60.
You're only paying for the years I was here. Long Beach is still going to pay
for the 25 years that I was there.
Council Member Scharff: What were you in Long Beach?
Ms. Mason: I was many things.
Council Member Scharff: No, no, no. I mean what percentage.
Ms. Mason: I was 2-7.
Council Member Scharff: I thought you were probably 2-7. If we end up
raising your salary to, say, 200,000 at some point, and you're here ten
years. Long Beach then picks up 2.7 percent of 200,000. Right?
Mr. Perez: Yeah, (inaudible) years.
Council Member Filseth: (inaudible) Long Beach (inaudible).
Mr. Perez: I'm not trying to ...
Ms. Mason: I'm just saying that you're paying proportionally for the years
that someone's with you. If they leave, the agency they're going to is
paying proportionally for those years.
Mr. Perez: I'm not trying to stop you from asking the questions, but I think
these would be excellent for John Barthel. Being an expert actuary, he can
give you his insights on that perspective. We're giving you our best
professional (inaudible), but he's truly the expert in the field. I think those
would be good questions. We can note them, and give him a heads up that
they're coming.
Ms. Mason: We can ask him to look at this part of that percentage.
Council Member Scharff: Just tell me a little bit about the liability. I'll tell
you what's not adding up. Roughly the General Fund is 200—what are we at
these days? Two hundred?
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Council Member Filseth: One hundred eighty million.
Council Member Scharff: One eighty million, 184 million. Then Utilities is
what? Roughly 200 million?
Council Member Filseth: More than that. Three hundred fifty or so.
Council Member Scharff: Three fifty.
Council Member Filseth: Why is it so much higher in the General Fund?
Council Member Scharff: Why is it all in the General Fund and not all in
Utilities? I thought it would be equal, frankly. I didn't focus ...
Mr. Perez: That's total budget. Keep in mind that the capital and
commodities make up a vast majority of the Enterprise (crosstalk).
Council Member Filseth: It is a fair question, isn't it? Isn't the City
headcount between the Utilities and the General Fund approximately the
same? Isn't it about 500 in each?
Mr. Perez: No. We're looking at salary too, not the headcount. It's based
on the salary proportion. It's a debate that we had internally. When this
was originally set up many, many years ago, I think we set up somewhere in
the '50s if I recall correctly. I can't recall exactly.
Council Member Scharff: It's Fire and Police, isn't it? That's what's driving
it.
Mr. Perez: We have a higher obligation there. We never really split
anything when we send the records to CalPERS, so to them it doesn't matter
what fund it is. That's why we have to use today's current split of payroll,
because we don't have the exact allocation of people.
Ms. Mason: I don't think it's 50/50. I think it's maybe 1/3-2/3 on the
staffing.
Chair Schmid: Eric, anything else?
Council Member Filseth: No. I think I need to send an email to John Bartel.
I think I'm really curious about (inaudible) obviously that's for miscellaneous
(crosstalk) it wouldn't be fully funded for Public Safety.
Mr. Perez: If you want, you can send it to us. We'll send it out, and then
we'll reply to everybody, so everybody has the response.
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Council Member Scharff: I just had a few questions.
Chair Schmid: Yeah, go ahead.
Council Member Scharff: I guess the first one is, we're doing this so why do
we care.
Mr. Perez: One, it's a requirement that we adopt it.
Council Member Scharff: Right. You're going to follow the law. I'm
assuming you guys follow the law. As a policymaker, what are the
implications that I would care about? Are we going to look better than other
cities in terms of our bond rate? Are other people going to look at this and
say, "Palo Alto you're doing great. Everyone is else is (inaudible)?" Why
would I care?
Council Member Filseth: Yeah, that's a fair question.
Mr. Perez: That's a fair question, and that's something you can do. For
example, David Bullock was just telling me that in comparison to Fremont,
our General Fund side was about the same, and they're much bigger. That's
not surprising because we're bigger than a typical city on the General Fund
because of the support that we have in the other services. I think the
bottom line is to make sure that in our financials that the net position is in a
positive position. That's why you care. That's the bottom line. For us, it's a
good news situation. There may be agencies where they're in a negative
position. This is a full disclosure. Back to your point, the bond rating
agencies would look at that and say, "What are you going to do?" We have
a history in Palo Alto of being proactive. The Councils now and before have
been proactive in addressing any deficits that we had. I think it's a good,
diligent move that we show that we are transparent with you and the
community where our financial position is.
Council Member Scharff: That's all I had.
Chair Schmid: I guess a couple of questions. To follow-up Greg's "why are
we doing this," how does this help us, let me pursue it in that regard, does
this help us in any way. On page 2, I have a couple of questions on the
report. Page 2 of the report, packet page 13, it says the employer should
supplement and update the information in this report with its own financial
data as necessary. Now, what does that mean? We're the employer. Do
we update this?
Mr. Bullock: You don't update the calculation, the total pension liability and
the plan, that position information. Where you may update are some of the
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footnote disclosures. This report is, again, a valuation as of the
measurement date, June 30th, 2014. You may have a later actuarial
valuation that you could disclose in your footnotes. One of the things that
GASB required is a comparison of the net pension liability to covered payroll
for instance, but GASB changed the definition of what covered payroll is.
It's no longer just the pensionable payroll, but it's all payroll. While CalPERS
doesn't have the City of Palo Alto's total payroll figure ...
Council Member Filseth: (crosstalk) down there.
Mr. Bullock: Palo Alto doesn't have all the information that the City would
have, so the City would update its disclosures to include a total payroll
versus what CalPERS would have as your pensionable payroll. Things of that
nature. It's just to bring that to your attention.
Chair Schmid: You raised the point about measurements. You have two
definitions here, one of the valuation date and another of the measurement
date. What's the difference between those?
Mr. Bullock: GASB, when they went through the due process of these new
standards to get the feedback, a lot of the issues that came up during that
process was the timing and how they're going to get this information to the
employers timely. The concept came up with the measurement date that
let's give these pension plans a one-year reprieve to report this information.
They also gave a timeline of just the process of information. CalPERS was
considering whether or not using an actuarial valuation date of June 30th,
2014 for this implementation, but they said they wouldn't have that
information available until November or December of this year. It just
wasn't timely enough.
Chair Schmid: Does that mean that the measurement data we have here Is
not final? It will be revised?
Mr. Bullock: No. What it means is they use a valuation date of June 30th,
2013 (crosstalk) ...
Chair Schmid: That's the real date.
Mr. Bullock: .... forward to '14 using ...
Chair Schmid: Assumptions.
Mr. Bullock: Using assumptions, and then presented that as your
measurement date.
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Chair Schmid: You'll come back in a year with a valuation date of 2014 but
the number might be different than what we have here.
Mr. Bullock: Exactly. It will be different. Those differences are going to be
kind of amortized and factored into your number over time. It's just going
to be a continuous, because these numbers are always moving. I think you
mentioned the fact that why can't we have this information real-time. The
problem is—you probably could factor the actuarial assumptions and come
up with some number. What you're not going to have are the resources set
aside in the trust. That information is just not going to be timely enough to
get that information from CalPERS.
Chair Schmid: Why is it any different than your doing the CAFR for us?
Mr. Bullock: Because those investment which is a huge part, the investment
performance of the actual pension liability is very complicated. They can't
even get the information from their investment managers on some of these,
especially commodities. Some of these are very complex investments.
Chair Schmid: They're valued every day.
Mr. Bullock: Three, three or four months.
Chair Schmid: How can they not get the ...
Mr. Bullock: They're in (crosstalk); they're in different kinds of alternative
investments that are not easy to value.
Chair Schmid: That's like 18 months later. June 30th, 2014 ...
Mr. Bullock: No, no. Yeah, because we're using June 30th. They have it
now. I'm just saying in terms of getting real-time numbers, it takes them a
long time to process that information.
Chair Schmid: I guess the bottom line, where I get stuck, asking how do I
use this information, is you present us with an immense dilemma. We've
got to look backward. I know the CAFR you look six months backward, but
here we're looking 18 months backward. You happen to be looking at a year
that's had fantastic returns. You look at these numbers and say, "Great,
aren't we in great shape? Growing 18 percent per year. We have a surplus
more than we thought." The decisions we have to make on it are the
current decisions that have future implications to them. We hire new
people. We set payroll. We set benefit levels. This carries out not just this
year, but five years and ten years from now. We're committing ourselves to
a flow of things. We're being asked to spend time looking at 2013, because
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it would help us make these future decisions. I'm baffled. Why we don't
look at 1999 where CalPERS had another great year and say, "Aren't they
smart." I know they haven't picked this year just because it's great.
Mr. Bullock: That's a problem, I think, with the CAFR in general and
(inaudible) reporting, especially when we're talking about audited financial
statements because there is going to be a time lag of when that information
starts losing its usefulness. The measurement that we're getting from
CalPERS—go ahead.
Chair Schmid: You use the term "might lose its credibility."
Mr. Bullock: I think you're on a good track talking about looking at
projections and maybe getting an actuary to help come up with a number
and using the assumptions that Lalo talked about.
Chair Schmid: I guess I'm concerned that CalPERS without the actuaries
and stuff is looking at the current numbers, and they're changing their mind.
My understanding is they are currently saying, "We've got to change the way
we set our discount rate. Put it in our favor." They might announce that to
us at some point. How can CalPERS ignore this report that says, "We're
doing fantastic. Plan your future on this," meanwhile saying, "We're going
to change the rules of the game." What's going on and what are we
supposed to do? Who do we believe? The CalPERS that has been audited
two years before or what they're doing now?
Mr. Perez: Those are the challenges that we have. A couple of things really
quick to address some of your points that are good. We are dissatisfied with
CalPERS' lag of reporting, all agencies. Every time we go to the—they have
what they call an annual educational forum. It's next week, and I plan to be
there and say the same thing again, "When are you going to catch up? With
technology, you should be able to have more recent numbers." We're
onboard with you there. I think if you look at page 19 of your packet, or
page 8 of the report, I'm looking at the valuation for the Miscellaneous
group. I'll give you a second to get there.
Mr. Bullock: What page?
Mr. Perez: Page 19 of the packet or 8 of the actuary. To answer your point
or give you a potential scenario for your point. If you look at the plan's net
pension liability, if you use the 7 1/2 discount, it's the 187 million. Let's say
that we assume that that's too aggressive and it's going to be more in the 6
1/2, then we have our number, 269. We would have to then make
decisions, which is what we're starting to do next November 3rd, to talk
about how do we supplement or address our unfunded liabilities. That could
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be a number that you could use from this or the actuarial number that we
get next week, which is the actual required payment calculation. Then we
start setting aside additional funding because you may not believe the 7 1/2
is the right number. This can help guide us towards a number. That's what
the purpose of this tool is, to give us that information. What happens if it
goes higher? You may not agree with that, but they also give you that.
Chair Schmid: I read an article—I don't know how credible it is—in the last
week that says they are thinking about setting a new rule. When they have
a surplus rate of return, they will take that and drop their future rate of
return by 1/4 point, by 1/10 point, by some amount. Thus, that would allow
them to have a more conservative portfolio and maybe a more credible
portfolio in the future. That seems to imply that they want to reduce their
risk and increase our risk by raising our payment rate so they can be in a
more secure position. That is deeply disturbing.
Mr. Perez: I guess you could look at it two ways. The other way that you
could look at it is if you believe that 7 1/2 is not realistic, then maybe
they're coming closer to reality, if you're in that camp.
Chair Schmid: That's different, taking that assumption and operating on
what you think, from them saying, "We are going to lay off more of the risk
on those who have already committed.
Mr. Perez: My understanding is that what they're going to do is change their
philosophy in terms of the risk that they take and take less risk; therefore,
they're going to assume a lesser rate of return. In a way, it gets to the
point that I was making. It does translate into a higher payment to the
agencies. The dilemma that the Board has is that there are agencies in both
camps. Some of us are saying, "Let's get to a more realistic risk tolerance
and, therefore, a lower rate of return. We realize that it's going to increase
our annual required contribution, but it's more realistic." There's other
agencies that say, "We can't afford a higher increase in contributions. It will
deplete our budgets and force us to start drawing on reserves to the point
where we're not going to be able to make it unless we make significant cuts
to services." That's where they're getting the tug and pull. They're asking
for our comments as a Board, as a Council, as management, for what are
our opinions as to what should they do. This is the period that I introduced
the last time we were talking, that they were asking for feedback. Right
now, they started with three options and now they're down to two, and it's a
hybrid of those two because there's so many opinions on where should they
go.
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Chair Schmid: When does the Council get a chance to weigh in on the
options?
Ms. Mason: I'm not sure they're still—are they still asking? They met
yesterday actually.
Council Member Filseth: I read an article like that too. I thought I read that
they had made a decision.
Ms. Mason: I thought they made—they met yesterday. I think they're
recommending a decision. I'm not sure if they adopted it.
Chair Schmid: What decision?
Ms. Mason: I think what they're recommending is what Lalo just shared. As
they have earnings, that ...
Council Member Filseth: I think what Lalo (crosstalk). The article I read
said that they considered going to 6 1/2 percent decided not to do that.
Ms. Mason: They're projecting that. This is what I had read. There's an
article yesterday after you and I spoke that as the earnings exceed
expected, that they will start using that as the buffer to start lowering the
discount rate to try and get to the 6.5 ...
Chair Schmid: As they earn more, they will charge more. That doesn't
make sense.
Ms. Mason: I think their alternative was we just reduce now and increase
rates to make up the difference. They're trying to have a more conservative
smoothing approach that they'll use earnings beyond what was expected to
start gradually bringing down the rate. They're projecting based on—this is
what I read. It would take 30 years probably to get to the 6.5 percent rate
using that methodology. That's what I read.
Chair Schmid: When do we get such information?
Ms. Mason: I just read it in the newspaper.
Chair Schmid: Right. We pay them how much per year? Why don't they
tell us what they're doing?
Mr. Perez: We subscribe to their mail-outs, and it's not always consistent.
Some of it—we met with them last week at the County of Santa Clara
building, the County and the school, Mountain View and ourselves. We were
pushing on this issue. What they are saying is "We're working with the
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League." I guess we have to get word through the League in order to—I
was saying, "We're not getting this timely information to make these
decisions."
Ms. Mason: There is a webinar online about it, I saw yesterday. There is
information that they're putting out, but they're not mailing it directly to us.
It's being put out more as public information.
Chair Schmid: Could you send at least base information that we have?
What's the connection to 68? How will 68 help us with any of these issues?
Council Member Filseth: It doesn't.
Mr. Perez: No. I think really what we need to look at is our regular actuarial
report, the assumptions and the rate of returns and the fluctuations and
having a policy discussion on how we should contribute funds to what I
would consider an annual required contribution stabilization reserve. That
way it can help us navigate through those difficult times when there are
downturns.
Chair Schmid: I guess I don't like it that all the risk is being put on the City.
Council Member Filseth: Let me see if I can take a shot at this, and see if
this is accurate. Whether it's $187 million or $269 million or whatever it is,
really it has nothing to do with CalPERS. I mean, that's actually not true,
because it's on the investment return side and what's their strategy for
investment returns and so forth. That aside, it is what it is. CalPERS can
say, "We're going to estimate 7 1/2 percent or 7 1/4 percent or 7 3/4
percent or 6 1/2 percent," but actually that doesn't change this. This is
whatever it is. What CalPERS' investment return projection changes is how
fast we have to pay it off. Sooner or later, we're going to have to pay it off.
The cities that you described, the ones that are saying "No, you can't change
your assumption," they're not going to get away from this either. They're
still going to have pay it off, but they may end up paying it off over 40 years
instead of 30 or something like that. In my mind, it is what it is, and we're
going to have pay it. I think the lesson from all of this is—I think this is
where you're going with your stabilization funds and so forth that makes
sense—that we can't rely on CalPERS for this. What their number—their
projected numbers are subject to all kinds of influences (inaudible), political.
We should just take those numbers and—I don't know—wrap fish in them or
something like that. I think we need to have control of this. We need to
have our own numbers, and we need to understand what this is. It's sort of
the kind of thinking behind what if we did it by employee or something like
that. We're just trying to get our hands around this. I think the answer to
that question is going to come up in the discussion in a couple of weeks here
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as we really start to get—whether CalPERS changes their rate from 7 1/2 to
7 1/4 or 7 percent, it almost doesn't matter because we're going to have to
pay for it, whatever it really is.
Chair Schmid: I guess what the distinction between us and CalPERS is they
set a rate that we have to pay. If they lower their rate of return, we'll have
to pay more.
Council Member Filseth: We're going to have to pay that anyway.
Chair Schmid: The risk that they are taking with that money is something
we don't control.
Council Member Filseth: That is an issue ...
Chair Schmid: We are putting our confidence in their risk assessment.
Council Member Filseth: Do you mean the risk assessment or the risk that
they invest their portfolio in? I mean, the risk here is they've got a huge
moral hazard problem. If they invest in risky assets, we bear the losses, but
they bear the gains, which is sort of how the first savings and loan crisis
happened. If it's that, I agree that's an issue. How they report it, unless
I'm really getting this wrong, it just seems almost immaterial to me. If they
say, "The rate is lower, so you have to pay more this year," if they didn't say
that, we would have had to pay more next year, because it is what it is.
Council Member Scharff: That's where the big issue is. It could be we have
to pay ten years from now.
Council Member Filseth: Right, but we're going to have to pay eventually.
Council Member Scharff: Right. It makes a big difference to ...
Council Member Filseth: True. Whether we pay it this year or next year or
ten years from now, yes, that makes a difference.
Council Member Scharff: We could have a crisis ten years from now, and
everyone else could have one too.
Council Member Filseth: That's true.
Council Member Kniss: If I can jump in to go back to what Suzanne said. I
remember being at a CalPERS meeting a couple of years ago. Their goal is
to smooth it out. There's no question that's been their long-term goal all
along. You're right, Eric. One way or the other, you're going to pay it. But
there's been huge concern throughout the cities about whether or not it's
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going to drop from the 7.5 to 7.25 and so forth. That's been the concern
I've heard this whole period of time. To come back to your point, what
difference does it make; we will pay it in the end. Just to remind us, we
can't get out of CalPERS unless we pay 800 million roughly?
Mr. Perez: Yeah.
Council Member Kniss: I'd say sort of what you see is what you get. You
can't make a whole lot of change here. If you want to really be nervous,
look at the CalPERS Board.
Chair Schmid: I guess I'm concerned of just the history. This is from the
presentation we got last time. In the '90s, returns were much higher than
the liability, so there was an encouragement by every city to give pensions
and the (inaudible) pensions as a benefit. They have made such egregious
errors either back here in their estimates of how to pay or in their rate of
return, gross errors that has led to this gigantic liability. The question is, is
GASB 68 going to help us say, "Now they've got it. Now they understand."
How much confidence can we have in their assessment of the demographics
of the retirement, of the risk to take in the market? Obviously they made
some grievous errors in their investments.
Council Member Filseth: 68 GASB just takes the same data and puts it in a
different chart basically. I mean that doesn't do anything.
Ms. Mason: At least it's being put on the table and communicated. I think
that was the significance of GASB, is don't just say your annual contribution
is your cost of the pensions. That was, I think, the goal of GASB. David can
comment. I do think it would be ...
Council Member Filseth: That's a pretty low bar for progress.
Ms. Mason: I do think that having John Bartel here will help have an
informed discussion on some of this with an actuary. I think these are all
good questions, and we'll make sure that we forward them to him. We will
have a dialog about that and what the risk mitigation efforts that are
underway could do or won't do that maybe we want to do on our own.
Chair Schmid: I guess one key thing, as I'm sort of pushing here, is a flow
of information from CalPERS to us. The flow of 68—let's look back at 2013.
That was a good year. We've been given reports on that, instead of a flow
of what are we thinking now? I mean, information from them on their risk
and their looking at the long-term liabilities would certainly be a helpful step.
Let me just ask another question. Is there something we could ask the City
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Attorney in terms of our rights and responsibilities and abilities to have an
impact.
Council Member Kniss: She's right here.
Mr. Perez: She's right here.
Council Member Scharff: Was that rhetorical?
Mr. Perez: Let me ...
Chair Schmid: I don't think tonight I want a response, but just ...
Mr. Perez: Molly could give you her legal opinion. I can tell you that the
Governor is putting extraordinary pressure on CalPERS to make changes,
and he has not been successful. I think Council Member Kniss told you why.
Look at the Board.
Council Member Kniss: You all think I'm kidding. You haven't looked at the
Board.
Council Member Filseth: Can I ask a question? Are CalPERS and the FAA,
are they really the same organization?
Council Member Kniss: I don't know, Eric. I think we should find out
though.
Council Member Filseth: They go to one office on Tuesday and the other one
on Wednesday.
Council Member Scharff: Doesn't the Governor appoint the Board?
Council Member Kniss: No, they're elected.
Council Member Scharff: They're elected.
Council Member Kniss: Half the Board. It's all—are we quiet tonight?
Chair Schmid: I guess I did mention the City Attorney.
Council Member Scharff: Is what?
Chair Schmid: Maybe the City Attorney can ...
Council Member Scharff: I can't run for the Board?
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Council Member Kniss: Try it. I kind of like, I think—sorry. The woman
who's still the director, correct?
Ms. Mason: Yeah, Anne Stausboll.
Council Member Kniss: I rather liked her, though, and thought she was ...
Ms. Mason: She's made a lot of changes. I mean, I would say that, and I've
actually worked directly with her on changes that agencies were seeking. I
think in the last five years there's been a lot of improvement on
communication. It is challenging, because the Board is made up of a mix of
individuals. There has been challenge to the smoothing approach. The
Board is trying to change the discount rate or the investment return rate.
They're trying to do it in a way they have a lot of different agencies and
Board Members, and it's definitely a significant discussion that's going on.
Chair Schmid: Let's see. I asked the question of the City Attorney.
Molly Stump, City Attorney: Just two things to add to the conversation
which has been interesting. You may recall that Governor Brown initially put
together his multipart set of ideas for pension reform before PEPRA was
passed. It eventually became PEPRA. Governance was on that list, and it
dropped off. It was one of the items that did not make it into the final
legislation. He was looking for governance reforms in terms of the
membership and balancing out some of these issues. The other thing I
would note is that CalPERS views the members of the system, the
individuals, as their customers. They have a fiduciary duty to maximize
benefits. They don't have the same approach we would like them to view as
co-customers the cities that fund those systems. They do not. They do not
feel that there is that same kind of duty to the cities. I think it's a
continuing dialog but a challenging one.
Council Member Scharff: Interesting.
Council Member Filseth: I think again we're going back away from this. The
discount rate or the investment return rate, we've got to estimate that
ourselves. The CalPERS investment, CalPERS reported rate or projected
rate, it times the cash flow, so it doesn't really make a difference. It affects
the timing of the cash flow. We've got to plan for it ourselves. Then this
poor guy that's got to listen to a meeting like this every day, that's
(inaudible).
Chair Schmid: We look forward to the CAFR.
Mr. Bullock: I'll be prepared.
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Chair Schmid: I guess we do have another session on the pension coming
up.
Mr. Perez: November 3rd.
Chair Schmid: November 3rd.
Council Member Kniss: Is that when Bartel is coming?
Mr. Perez: Yes.
Council Member Filseth: He'll be here on November 3rd?
Ms. Mason: Yeah.
Mr. Perez: Yes, because you got a limited time with him because he had
another commitment. We allowed for that night to be mostly him with one
small general obligation library bond report that is more information. You'll
have plenty of opportunities to ask questions.
Council Member Kniss: What did you say the date was, November which?
Mr. Perez: November 3rd.
Council Member Kniss: That's what I thought you said.
Chair Schmid: Are there any last comments that we want to leave?
Council Member Kniss: Let me just say ...
Council Member Filseth: Wait, I was ...
Council Member Kniss: It's not a very kind comment. I know we're being
recorded, but I was invited to go speak at one of their Board meetings. I
was quite surprised by the—have to search for the right words ...
Council Member Scharff: A CalPERS Board meeting, right?
Council Member Kniss: Yes. What I thought was great variance in the
ability of the Board Members and in their motivation and in sort of why they
were there. I know none of that is a kind comment, but I think it sheds a lot
of light on this system that we are so committed to that we can't even afford
to buy our way out of it. We're in it, and we don't have a great deal of
influence, and we don't like that. We much prefer to have influence. If you
think differently either Suzanne or Lalo, say it out loud. That was my
observation.
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Chair Schmid: I guess my biggest concern is on December 15th we have
the Long Range Financial Forecast. In past years, our benefit side is growing
twice as fast as our salary side. Any increases we have such as higher
payments will reduce that salary piece even more. That is upsetting, and we
will deal, I guess, with that in December. That's one of the consequences.
Council Member Filseth: Can I ask one more question? This is another
bashing CalPERS question, so it doesn't matter here. I've got sort of most of
my personal investments in Vanguard index funds, because the
management rate is like .4 percent or .25 percent or something like that.
What's CalPERS' management rate?
Mr. Perez: I should know it. I'll have it ready for the November 3rd
meeting.
Chair Schmid: They calculate a rate in here of .15.
Council Member Kniss: I think that's it.
Council Member Filseth: Point one five?
Council Member Kniss: Point one five.
Mr. Perez: Let's see if they ...
Council Member Kniss: I know it's under 2.
Mr. Perez: ... if that's the updated number, because they just did a change.
They dropped off about 100 middle companies. I don't know if that includes
that or not, but I'll double check.
Council Member Kniss: Could I ask one random question, though? When,
for example, Stockton went bankrupt, did they drop out of CalPERS? Is that
what actually happened or did they have to hang in there?
Ms. Mason: No, Stockton definitely is still part of CalPERS.
Council Member Kniss: They had to continue. Even in bankruptcy, they had
to continue to pay CalPERS.
Ms. Mason: San Bernardino tried to stop during the bankruptcy period. A
friend of mine is the attorney representing the city. That was definitely a
challenging discussion with CalPERS.
Chair Schmid: Molly, a comment?
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Ms. Stump: Yes. San Bernardino did actually stop making their payments
for a period of time, but they subsequently reached an agreement with
CalPERS to pay back that back liability and to continue in the system. No
city has exited CalPERS in bankruptcy. In fact, no bankruptcy exit has
involved any diminution of pension rights, pension benefits.
Council Member Kniss: Molly, has any city paid their way out that you know
of?
Ms. Mason: I've never heard of it.
Ms. Stump: I know there were some very small cities that actually went
through the formal process of requesting a price tag on that, and they did
not pursue it ...
Mr. Perez: Seaside.
Ms. Stump: ... because of the cost.
Mr. Perez: It was Seaside, California.
Ms. Stump: I'm not aware of any. We can confirm that.
Chair Schmid: What is the referendum that San Jose is trying to get
established?
Ms. Stump: San Jose is not in the CalPERS system.
Council Member Scharff: They're not in CalPERS.
Ms. Stump: They run their own retirement system.
Chair Schmid: Right. The ex-mayor is trying a referendum ...
Ms. Stump: He's trying to qualify something for the statewide ballot, which
he has made several runs at that. There's been different iterations of what's
been proposed.
Chair Schmid: Isn't that a base reform or PEPRA or something
transformative?
Ms. Stump: I'm not sure. He just made some recent changes. What tends
to happen is he gets a ballot title and summary from the Attorney General,
and then there's a concern about getting that qualified for the ballot based
on ...
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Council Member Filseth: He gets to kill the widows and orphans in the title,
and they have to go back.
Council Member Scharff: That's always what happens, right?
Council Member Filseth: That's what happens.
Council Member Scharff: Talking about if we actually could exit CalPERS,
but then I'm convinced you'd all come to us and say, "Now we're exiting
CalPERS, we can't hire anyone because everyone wants to be in CalPERS." I
just wonder—I mean, I know we all talk about that, but I know that would
be an issue. I'd hear about it over and over again for the next ... We're
uncompetitive in the market, because we're not in CalPERS.
Ms. Stump: This was the key issue in the Stockton bankruptcy. They did
not actually seek to reduce their retirement payments for this reason. The
City Manager, Bob Deis, felt strongly that that would make Stockton
uncompetitive as an employer, and they were particularly concerned about
police officers.
Council Member Kniss: That's right.
Council Member Filseth: It's not obvious to me actually—I mean, I used to
think CalPERS was just like these evil guys. It's not obvious to me—I mean,
maybe I'm missing something huge. It's not obvious to me how being in
CalPERS is actually that big a detriment to us. Again, with the exception of
the issue of control, because they control the cash flows. As long as they
invest wisely and, as for their investment returns, I don't think anybody in
here believes it at all. As long as you assume that their investment returns
are just completely bogus, we need to sort of watch this ourselves. That's
that issue. The only other issue I can think of is the strictures they place on
what kind of packages we can offer the employees, because we don't have
any flexibility. We can't come and say, "You can take a smaller pension in
exchange for a larger upfront payment so you can afford a house here." We
don't get to do that. Other than that, it's not obvious to me how CalPERS is
that pernicious to us, other than the control issue.
Council Member Kniss: I think it's the control thing. It's frustrating that
you—I don't know if San Jose does any better than we do. To be honest, I
don't think so.
Council Member Filseth: At least they have control.
Council Member Kniss: They've got control.
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Chair Schmid: The downside is not just control, it's cost. We are paying
twice as much each year. The increase is twice as high on our benefit
package as it is for our salaries.
Ms. Mason: As it is for ...
Chair Schmid: Salaries.
Council Member Scharff: We'd probably do a radical restructuring. We'd
probably pay, like, twice the salary as what any other city pays and have
much less benefits.
Council Member Filseth: Put it in a 401(k).
Council Member Scharff: And put it in a 401(k). We'd be this completely
different model, and you'd come work for us if you want a high salary and
not have the guaranteed pension.
Council Member Filseth: That's what we would do.
Council Member Scharff: You'd get different people. I mean, that's what
we'd do.
Council Member Filseth: CalPERS stops us from (inaudible). The size of the
unfunded pension liability, we did that; CalPERS didn't do that. I mean, we
shouldn't have believed CalPERS. They gave us bogus numbers, and we
believed them. Shame on us. Those contracts that we're going to have to
pay off, we entered those contracts, not CalPERS.
Council Member Kniss: Just for the fun of it. Don't I remember Willie Brown
was on the Board for quite a while? I'm pretty sure.
Ms. Mason: On the CalPERS Board?
Council Member Kniss: Yeah.
Ms. Mason: I'm not sure if he was on CalPERS.
Council Member Scharff: Let's get him on the phone.
Chair Schmid: I think we could go round and round, but we do have a date
of November 3rd. There's no motion needed.
Mr. Perez: No. We wanted to hear your comments, and we have. We've
noted them, and we'll pass them on to Mr. Bartel. Any other questions you
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want to give us ahead of time, it would be appreciated so he can work on
any particular responses.
Council Member Kniss: You said last time he was limited to one hour.
You're saying this time he's got time for us?
Ms. Mason: Right. That's the only item on the agenda. Isn't it?
Mr. Perez: We have one other small—the Library Oversight Committee
report on the bond, but it's information mostly.
Chair Schmid: Thank you very much. Look forward to the CAFR pension
discussion. That completes Item Number 1.
Council Member Scharff: Are you guys joining me on my Colleagues Memo
to allow alcohol in City Hall?
Council Member Filseth: To allow alcohol in City Hall? I don't think we need
it, because most of us drink here anyway.
NO ACTION TAKEN
ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 7:47 P.M.