Proposition B Seeks City Pension Benefit Increase

KPBS | By KPBS Public Broadcasting

Published October 11, 2006 at 7:47 AM PDT

The City of San Diego has been embroiled in endless scandals involving the underfunding of the city pension system. Now, Proposition B asks voters if they want to increase benefits for city employees

You’ve heard of ballot box budgeting. Well, you could say that Proposition B, in the City of San Diego, is ballot box benefits. Prop. B has the support of San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders. If passed, it would require voter approval of any pension benefit boost for city employees for the next 15 years. Naturally, Prop. B has its supporters and critics. Critics say it’s an abuse of the referendum system, and it will prevent San Diego from hiring good people. Supporters say it will help rein in pension benefits while the city gets its financial feet back on the ground.

Guest

Alison St. John , San Diego City Hall reporter for KPBS News.