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ERS Board of Control
  
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ERS Runoff Election Candidate Statements

The candidates for the Active State Position, Active Local Position, and Retired Local Position on the ERS Board of Control are listed below, by position, in the order they will appear on the ballot. The order was determined in a random drawing by the ERS Election Committee. The statements below were provided by the candidates to give voters more information.
Active State Position
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Mr. David B. Bollie

Mr. David B. Bollie - “I have no political agenda in running for this position.  I have no affiliation with ASEA and do not run in political circles.  I also have no desire for 69% of the members of the board of control becoming political appointees if HB524 becomes law.  I do have a passion for finance and the well being of the pension system upon which most of us will rely as a source of income during retirement.  I will strive to promote the best investment decisions with the best returns and appropriate risks whether the investments are within the State of Alabama borders, or not.  I have a wife and daughter and spend my free time coaching my daughter's softball and basketball teams."
Mr. Jim Begley

Mr. Jim Begley - "In these challenging economic times, there will be issues arising that impact all employees within the ERS system.  Having an understanding of the rules, guidelines, and laws that affect ERS is important.  With my years of experience as a Retirement Counselor, Personnel Manager, and my academic education, I think that I am very able to review the issues and make the best judgment on all current and forthcoming ERS issues.  As well, I strongly support Dr. Bronner’s improvements and vision for the RSA."
Active Local Position
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Mr. Ben Powell

Mr. Ben Powell, Incumbent - "Alabama residents and RSA members alike should be proud of the RSA’s accomplishments during recent decades.  But, in these difficult financial times, the RSA must work even smarter to assure the continuum of success.  As a member of the ERS Board of Control, I pledge to support efforts to fully-fund retirement benefits for past, present, and future Alabama governmental employees.  I seek to secure the long-term viability of employee retirement benefits and to sustain a bright future for RSA members by taking action to maximize investment returns.  I will be ever mindful of my obligation to ensure that citizens and taxpayers of this state can be confident that the RSA conducts its business in an ethical and efficient manner.  And knowing that the quality of life for future generations will depend on continued growth and investment in this state, I support the RSA’s current strategy to invest in Alabama if and when such investments help the RSA meet investment goals and objectives.  In the current economic climate, the person who fills this trustee position will bear enormous responsibility to maintain a proper balance between popular sentiment and real world fiscal responsibility.  I stand ready to take on that challenge."
Mr. Roger H. Rendleman

Mr. Roger H. Rendleman - "The Retirement Systems of Alabama has been, and should continue to be, a driving force in the success of the state of Alabama.  Not only has RSA been an excellent recruiting tool for attracting quality people into state and local government service in Alabama, but the system has played a major role in enhancing tourism and overall image of the state on an international level.  Past success does not translate into future successes, especially in a constantly changing environment. Lately we have seen public employees targeted to address financial problems brought on by the economy and by poor budgeting practices in state houses across the country.  Our financial future is at stake and we need to be vigilant against political expectance over sound fiscal practices.  Having a vested interest as an RSA member and a local government leader, I would like to utilize my abilities as a CPA and my broad base of experience to provide input in continuing the success of RSA on behalf of my fellow members."

Retired Local Position
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Mr. James Fibbe

Mr. James Fibbe, Incumbent - “Upon retirement in 1998, I joined ARSEA and have served on the Board and as President in 2006.  This service provided me the experience of working with our retirees statewide and understanding their concerns.  Having served one term on the RSA Board of Control during the time when retirement systems are under attack, I would like to continue representing retirees of local government.  My many years of financial management along with my people skills and honesty qualify me for this position.  I understand the importance of retirement income and will do all within my power to safeguard and strengthen our retirement system.  Indications are that inflation will be returning in the economy making it more important that the retirement system be financially strong and in position to help retirees obtain future cost of living increases.  I believe the future of our system looks bright and want to be part of leading RSA in the years to come.  Tough times call for leaders to make tough decisions.  I have always been prepared to make those decisions and will do so as your representative.  Thanks for your vote and support.”
Mr. Ronald Matthews

Mr. Ronald Matthews - “I care deeply about our Retirement System, and pledge to work cooperatively with Dr. Bronner to maintain the financial strength of our Retirement System.  Alabama is fortunate to have one of the best and most financially stable retirement systems in the nation.  Also, RSA provides a defined benefit, which is an enviable benefit.

During my 47 years of participation in the state retirement system, I was honored to be elected to two terms on the RSA Board (2004-2009).  Now, as a retiree, my experience has enabled me to understand the challenges associated with keeping our retirement system strong.  I will work diligently to find funding for a retiree cost-of-living raise.  This will be challenging, but justified for retirees of local governments (city, county, etc.).

My experience includes working many years with support groups such as ARSEA and legislators.  Finding ways to keep our retirement system strong during difficult economic times will be my highest commitment.  With my experience, education, and training, I am the most qualified candidate."

Age:  71, Alabama born, married
Merit Scholarship graduate – Auburn
Two Masters degrees – Alabama A&M
Certified in Economic Development Finance
Golden Eagle Senior Citizen Award (2007)
Distinguished Community Service Award
State Winner, 4-H Club


 

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