Wolfe’s Proposals to Reform Fiscal Management and County Rehiring Practices Pass

New City, NY (October 16, 2013) – The Rockland County Legislature enacted two local laws at its October 15th meeting that will build upon financial oversight as well establish a policy for the rehiring of former public employees.  Both local laws were introduced by Vice Chairman of the Legislature Alden H. Wolfe and received the unanimous approval of the legislative body.

 The Rockland County Fiscal Stabilization Act will establish a guide for the use of fiscal resources that exceed annual budget revenues and is based on the framework, strategies and guidelines developed by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), a professional organization of public officials that work to identify, develop and advance fiscal practices for matters relating to public finance.  The law will require the County to establish a fund balance account for contingencies.   The fund, with strict criteria for withdrawal, would help the County weather unexpected circumstances such as mid-year decreases in state or federal government reimbursements, increases in unfunded mandates, expenses attributed to natural disasters such as Hurricanes Sandy and Irene, judgments or settlements or a situation that the County Legislature deems to be of urgent or critical need.  In all cases, withdrawals would require a two-thirds majority approval of the Legislature.  At a recent review, the County’s rating agencies viewed this as a significant and positive step in repairing the County’s rating.

 The second law, the Rockland County Public Employee Rehiring Disclosure Act, will prohibit the practice of rehiring former employees who have left, separated or retired from County government and accepted incentives or compensation for unused fringe benefits.  On occasion, the County has participated in State pension incentive programs or created its own incentive programs to encourage employees to terminate employment as a means to achieve financial savings to the County.  However, frequent decisions by the Executive Branch to rehire some of the participating employees have drastically reduced the value of the savings.  The prohibition may be waived by resolution of the County after considering the justification, compensation and duration of employment.

“I appreciate the support of my colleagues,” said Vice Chairman Wolfe.  “Together, these local laws will allow us to continue improving the legislature’s oversight of operations and create a mechanism for continued fiscal improvement.  These types of voluntary restrictions demonstrate our commitment to a brighter, more stable financial future.”