In a recent Clearwater city council meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the oversight and management of the city’s pension plan, particularly in light of allegations of mismanagement within the Clearwater Police Department. Mr. Haluba, a concerned citizen, criticized the qualifications of the current trustees overseeing the pension plan, questioning their ability to manage the actuarial components essential for its administration. He specifically called out trustee Miss Texara, suggesting a lack of relevant experience.

Haluba also condemned the actions of certain police department officials, accusing them of unethical practices, including allowing employees to receive retirement benefits while still working. He expressed a lack of confidence in the Clearwater Police, citing a history of complaints against an officer, Viola Lou Hatcher, who was recently terminated for sexual harassment. Haluba argued that such terminations could ultimately benefit the pension plan by reducing costs.

The meeting proceeded with the approval of several agenda items related to the pension plan, including new hires and administrative expenditures for the upcoming fiscal year. The finance director, Jay Raven, presented a request for administrative expenditures totaling $369,900, which reflects a slight increase from the previous year. All items discussed were unanimously approved by the council, indicating a collective agreement on the necessity of maintaining the pension plan's integrity amidst ongoing scrutiny.

The meeting concluded without further public comment, leaving the future of the pension plan and the police department's management under continued observation from concerned citizens.