Back in 2008, I became aware and concerned that the MBTA Retirement Fund is not subject to the same transparency rules that apply to state agencies. My understanding of this issue has greatly evolved over the past few months: While I have undiminished passion for transparency, I have to admit that the Retirement Fund is …
Transparency
Transparency and Ethics: How do the Public Records Law and State Ethics Law apply to the MBTA Retirement Board?
On February 25, 2014, the Joint Committee on Public Service will be holding a public oversight hearing on the MBTA Retirement Fund. Below, please find an overview of the applicability of the public records law and state ethics law to the MBTA Retirement Fund and Board. PUBLIC RECORDS LAW APPLICABILITY In May of 2013, Senator …
Letter regarding process of government web site development
Senator Brownsberger passed on the ideas of a constituent for improving the process by whicvh government enters into contracts for web site development. December 9, 2013 John Letchford Chief Information Officer and Assistant Secretary Administration & Finance 1 Ashburton Place, Room 804 Boston, MA 02108 Dear Mr. Letchford, I have recently met …
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Sen. Brownsberger’s legislation leads to opening of MBTA pension books
The legislation sponsored by Senator Brownsberger paved the way for the opening of the MBTA pension books. The Boston Herald has been covering this story. The data was released from the MBTA, as the Retirement Board had refused to release the information.
MBTA Retirement Board has yet to open pension fund books
The MBTA Retirement Board is balking at opening up the books of their pension fund, an action called for after passage of legislation sponsored by Senator Brownsberger. Here is The Boston Herald story. You can read more about Will’s work to end the secrecy of the MBTA pension system at this forum posting.
Senate Transportation Plan includes Transparency Enhancements
While the main agenda in yesterday’s transportation discussion was to fund transportation operations and maintenance, we passed a number of amendments to strengthen transparency. A particular issue that had troubled many observers for decades was the secrecy of the MBTA’s pension fund. The MBTA’s pension plan has been perceived as excessively generous, allowing relatively early retirements. …
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