Debate continues over plan for rising legacy costs

John Howell
Posted 12/30/14

Former Ward 1 Councilman Robert Cushman’s 45 minutes before the City Council may have done more than earn him a headline and an online story that generated almost 100 comments.

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Debate continues over plan for rising legacy costs

Posted

Former Ward 1 Councilman Robert Cushman’s 45 minutes before the City Council may have done more than earn him a headline and an online story that generated almost 100 comments.

Using breakdowns from 2004 and comparing them to the current budget, Cushman illustrated what he calls a trend of escalating pension and retiree health care costs, which if allowed to continue would leave fewer and fewer taxpayer dollars for capital improvements, such as road repairs, and new programs.

Cushman called for a 10-year projection of these “legacy costs” and a plan to address them. High on his list is the absence of any program to pay for retiree health care costs, which is currently done on a pay-as-you-go basis. Also, he noted that unlike active employees who are co-paying for health care, retirees receive this benefit for free.

Some council members as well as municipal union leaders who questioned his credentials downplayed Cushman’s presentation. And when none of the council had questions for him, it seemed that was pretty much the end of the story.

Not so.

Last week, Cushman followed up with an email to members of the council and school committee that included an attachment of the Barnstable, Mass., 10-year financial forecast. He called on city leaders to create a similar plan.

“The fact that Warwick, with over 85,000 citizens, doesn’t have a similar strategy; and worse, city leaders refuse to even consider creating one, demonstrates a serious problem in your unwillingness to first recognize the trends and fiscal challenge facing the city,” he writes.

Mayor Scott Avedisian offered his take in an email response to questions whether the city should have a 10-year plan. (The complete text of his response appears at the end of this story.)

“Bob Cushman’s reference to a ten-year plan itself needs clarification, as there is a difference between a budget and a financial plan and as such, I am not sure that it means very much, especially considering we employ a hybrid approach that includes both budgeting and forecasting,” Avedisian writes.

He called a 10-year municipal forecast rare, as assumed variable economic conditions can become obsolete. As an example, he cites the recession and unexpected legislative changes in the motor vehicle excise tax that would have rendered financial forecasts ineffective.

Avedisian called the decline in student population a significant trend, “but that is something that the city has no role in addressing other than level or near level funding the local appropriation to encourage an examination of the system.”

Ward 5 Councilman Ed Ladouceur would like to have a forecast, saying it “makes sense for the actuaries to give us a 10-year projection.” He said he wants to see what it would cost to have city actuaries look beyond the two and three years currently projected in reports. He said he would rather be proactive than reactive to the issue of mounting legacy costs.

“We can’t address this unless we’re willing to get the numbers. I would want to know now,” he said.

While the level of pension funding can be debated, Ladouceur points out the city has done nothing to address retiree health care costs.

“Health care is at zero,” he said. “I know answering that is not to sit back and do nothing. It’s not self-correcting … a bald tire doesn’t grow new tread; it blows out.”

The administration isn’t waiting.

Avedisian pointed out that the administration is in contract talks, and that legacy costs, including pension costs and other post-employment benefits (OPEB), are being considered.

“From our valuations, we know that legacy costs are key budget issues facing the city and as such we need to continue to develop solutions to lessen their impact on the city’s budget rather than creating a document that says legacy costs have a significant impact on the budget. Our collective bargaining agreements are expiring on June 30, 2015 and we are exploring ways to reduce these legacy costs,” the mayor writes.

In a follow-up email, Avedisian said there are no developments to report on contract negotiations.

The mayor notes the city has taken steps to reduce the legacy costs of open pension plans. Further, he adds, the Rhode Island General Assembly has passed legislation that enables the Rhode Island Interlocal Risk Management Trust to establish an OPEB Fiduciary Trust for all cities and towns.

“I look forward to joining that initiative, which will then give us a long-term schedule for OPEB payments,” he writes.

Using the Barnstable forecast, Cushman highlighted the following items among others:

l “Long-term financial forecasting allows the town to consider its financial future beyond the current and immediate subsequent fiscal year. This offers the opportunity for better management of the community’s fiscal health as long-term imbalances can be identified and strategies to counteract them can be developed.”

Text of Mayor Scott Avedisian’s email:

Bob Cushman’s reference to a ten-year plan itself needs clarification, as there is a difference between a budget and a financial plan and as such, I am not sure that it means very much, especially considering we employ a hybrid approach that includes both budgeting and forecasting.

Budgeting is an annual process, which generally starts with the previous year's actual revenue and expenses and builds a new budget as well as embraces forecasting through capital improvement planning and experience review. As for a 10-year municipal forecast, they are rare, for a reason because the assumed variable economic conditions that can become obsolete when published. Look only to the great recession and the unexpected legislative changes to the motor vehicle excise tax. These changes could not be predicted and would have rendered a pure financial forecast document ineffective.

I don’t believe any city or town in Rhode Island does one; not even AAA rated communities.

The report covers many things but legacy costs seem to be the main focus.

In Warwick, a significant trend is the decline in student population, but that is something that the city has no role in addressing other than level or near level funding the local appropriation to encourage an examination of the system.

We already know the trends for pensions and health care for retirees are major budget drivers. Actuarial valuations are being done at the present time for both pension and retiree health care.

The city has taken action on the open plans by creating the Tier II benefit structure, which has already shown savings (Fire II). We still need to do more.

From our valuations, we know that legacy costs are key budget issues facing the city and as such we need to continue to develop solutions to lessen their impact on the city’s budget rather than creating a document that says legacy costs have a significant impact on the budget. Our collective bargaining agreements are expiring on June 30, 2015 and we are exploring ways to reduce these legacy costs.

Statement shows that we understand and acknowledge the legacy issue, have already implemented a strategy (the Tier II) to lessen the pension impact for the open plans and are attempting to negotiate OPEB relief in our soon-to-be expiring contracts.

Let’s look at what the ten-year plan for Barnstable actually says: It calls for tax increases every year. It also shows that school cost is the major driver. What Mr. Cushman would love to have is a city plan that expects a tax increase every year.

What we do have is actuarial reports and assumptions for the next 22 years of the 40-year funding formula that was adopted by this city. The annual update of that actuarial plan is conducted and adhered to.

Concerning OPEB, the Rhode Island General Assembly has passed legislation that enables the Rhode Island Interlocal Risk Management Trust to establish an OPEB Fiduciary Trust for all cities and towns. I look forward to joining that initiative, which will then give us a long-term schedule for OPEB payments

Comments

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  • Bob_Cushman

    Mayor Avedisian writes regarding preparing 10 year financial forecasts that "I don’t believe any city or town in Rhode Island does one". Maybe that is one reason Rhode Island has the highest unemployment and is ranked near the bottom economically in comparison to other states in the country.

    Avedisian also claims, "What Mr. Cushman would love to have is a city plan that expects a tax increase every year". A typical false characterization from a career political trying to deflect the issue. Maybe Avedisian needs to take a look in the mirror and reflect on his fourteen years as mayor that have resulted in a property tax increase rach and every year he has been mayor. The man doesn't know how to balance a budget without raising taxes. Annual tax increases have become a hallmark of his administration. Tapping the city surplus 8 times out of the last 11 years is another example of his poor fiscal management.

    The result of his policies:

    97 cents of all new tax dollars allocated to the city spent on retired and active personnal expenses. 3 cents left for every othe line item in the city.

    Social service programs cut.

    Firefighters storiming city hall because equipment is breaking down.

    1,500 homes up for tax sale last month, representing approximately 7 percent of the city population impacted.

    Dangerious roads filled with pot holes, with no funding plan except to borrow more money to fix them.

    Building in disrepair. Crumbling recreation facilities.

    Employees receiving no raises yet tax still increasing.

    Schools level funded for practically 6 years, yet tax still increases and all monies going to the city.

    Do I need to go on?

    Ask any successful business how important planning for the future is.

    If a small town half the size of Warwick can create a strategic plan, what does that say about the political leaders in Warwick who believe doing the same is impossible?

    Tuesday, December 30, 2014 Report this

  • Stacia Huyler

    the Mayor has had 14 years to develop solutions, where are they? will he be working on them as he's headed out the door? Warwick's "hybrid" approach is budgeting, then saying yes to all the requests that meet that or exceed that budget so more money is budgeted the following year, while taxes continue to increase and more money is pulled out of city savings to balance the city budget. The Mayor always like to throw out school enrollment declining, yet he's never done one thing for the past 14 years to downsize within city departments. the only thing the mayor has done is slap the schools with a 25 million dollar city bond. I cannot believe the Mayor actually stated that budgeting and forecasting are separate. That would explain why Warwick is in the financial mess that it's in. The Tier II benefit structure is not proving effective when OPEB is funded at ZERO dollars. The Mayor loves resting his head on the state's shoulders, he will deflect and defer inadequacies everyplace else other than to himself. The point of all of it is Barnstable took the INITIATIVE and game up with a responsible 10 year plan---doesn't matter what that it said, it's the fact that it was done. But, but, no one else is doing it... Avedisian take the LEAD on something? Who are we kidding?? The Mayor could care less about what happens to Warwick in 10 years because he will most likely be sipping cocktails on a beach in Dubai.

    Tuesday, December 30, 2014 Report this

  • Thecaptain

    Mayor Avedisian,

    The Town of Barnstable has 50,000 full time residents, however, from the beginning to May to the end of Sept. - early Oct. the town has 150,000 residents. Now here are some of the fiscal measures that are currently in place in Barnstable that maybe you can institute (if you have the courage)

    1. All employees pay 50 % of their healthcare costs, active and retired

    2. There are no sick pay buy back bonuses'

    3. Retirement is 62 and/or 30 years service

    4. Barnstable pays 10 holidays to all employees with a 1/2 day floating holiday. (the same 10 the federal government pays, not 14 like Warwick)

    5. All DPW vehicles are GPS equipped and operators are required to also use mileage and fuel logs. The system dramatically curtailed the activity that we currently experience here in Warwick in terms of efficiency or lack thereof.

    6. All employees sign employment agreements which stipulate that any arrest and conviction of any crime, misdemeanor or felony is cause for immediate dismissal. Read the current Cape Cod news to see a very recent example of the above with 2 DPW workers being terminated.

    Those are just a few examples of the measures that Barnstable has in effect which aid in the generation of 10 year plans. I would be interested to see what the dollar saving amount would be , hypothetically, if those measures were instituted.

    I find it disingenuous that you state how the auto tax and other economic variables preclude you from establishing a 10 year plan, as there are always adjustments to financial plans as this, as they are used simply as a TOOL TO PREDICT TRENDS ! Other economic factors and variables can be imported into the model at any time to adjust for these unknowns as they happen, to be able to continue to use the plan AS A TOOL TO PREDICT TRENDS!.

    Mayor, you state that 10 year municipal forecasts are rare. Not so. Numerous communities in Massachusetts use these tools TO PREDICT TRENDS. It is interesting that as you state that none of the cities and towns in RI use these tools. Comparatively to Mass, who does use 10 year forecasts, where do we stand in terms of controlling deficits, attractability to business, construction jobs, tourism, etc... In the back seat.

    By the way, Mayor Avedisian, how many years of your tenure resulted in a zero property tax rate increase? Uh, that would be none. 14 for 14, soon to be 15 for 15.

    Tuesday, December 30, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    50% of healthcare costs? Your a joke Rob.. 5 years ago it was 20% to you clowns demanded. ..stacia why don't you talk about the same topics here instead of hiding behind your Facebook page.... Right to Work, shopping, etc...

    Tuesday, December 30, 2014 Report this

  • RoyDempsey

    Did anyone else find this statement by Avedisian condesending: "Bob Cushman’s reference to a ten-year plan itself needs clarification, as there is a difference between a budget and a financial plan and as such, I am not sure that it means very much, especially considering we employ a hybrid approach that includes both budgeting and forecasting. else find this statement condescending".

    OK Mayor, what is the financial impact if Warwick is required to fund its retiree health benefits. I bet you have not even considered that one. Barnstable has. It is called managing the financial health of the city.

    Tuesday, December 30, 2014 Report this

  • Scal1024

    OK captain you list your initiatives the mayor should implement. What are you willing to give up to gain concessions? You want employees to pay 50% of health care, lose at least 4 vacation days, give up their pension benefits. What are you going to concede? Are you OK with paying them more hourly since you are cutting pay? You are not being realistic if your only way to negotiate is take, take, take. I am not employed by the city, but if you think negotiating with a hammer is the way to go you will continue to accomplish nothing. If you think hiding in your truck, filming DPW employees (while the rest of the world works), and talking down to them is successful than you will continue to accomplish nothing. The way you have continually tried to do things hasn't worked, stop talking and let the adults handle it.

    Tuesday, December 30, 2014 Report this

  • FedUp1

    Scottie hasn't done anything for 10 years regarding legacy costs. Unfunded healthcare costs are approaching $280 million and Scottie doesn't have a dime in the bank to pay for this outlandish benefit. Why are we giving this healthcare benefits to city workers. The school dept. gives this benefit to only the retiree and it stops at age 65. Scottie gives it to both husband and wife for life with no co-pays. Outrageous.

    Scottie touts how great Fire II pension plan is but keep in mind it gets an automatic 3 % cola increase every year. It costs the taxpayers millions to meet the actuarial requirements each year.

    Benefits for city workers have to be slashed.

    Tuesday, December 30, 2014 Report this

  • Stacia Huyler

    By the year 2049, thanks to the "pension reforms", the city of Warwick will have saved roughly $114 million (a 38-year period). But the city will have spent $1.175 BILLION to keep the pension plans afloat.

    To put things in perspective by the year 2027, the city will be spending $50.3 million in taxpayer dollars to fund the municipal pension plans. Absent the Avedisian pension reforms, the city would have to spend $52 million.

    And to echo what FedUp1 stated--- FIRE II PENSION PLAN GETS AN AUTOMATIC 3% COLA INCREASE EVERY YEAR. How is this fair to the ACTIVE CITY WORKERS not getting the same?

    Tuesday, December 30, 2014 Report this

  • Stacia Huyler

    You know how feel sorry for, those individuals who only get the paper copy of the Warwick Beacon and who are not able to come on line and see the comments posted under these articles. If we actually had some ethical journalists working at the Beacon to do their due diligence and follow up with with either Bob Cushman, GRS or a qualified CPA to ask the question---"how does what the Mayor state save the city of Warwick financially??" The answer is : "His Tier II plan in 14 years will save us maybe around 1.7 million, while by 2026 with this "40-year funding formula" the Warwick taxpayers will spend $314,000,000 to reduce Police/Fire I pension plan only by $4.6 million"

    This is all nothing but a JOKE and Avedisian has become an expert only in one thing---deceiving --- The Pretender, lying and deceiving the public and the city workers and retirees. This is nothing but shenanigans and PROPAGANDA. Avedisian is not solving our problems and does not want to fix them. He does not want to do a long term forecast because it would prove just how dire our financial situation truly is. Each and every day he remains in office along with some city council members who are just as unqualified as he is to hold office, only further sends the city of Warwick down the financial ruin rabbit hole.

    Tuesday, December 30, 2014 Report this

  • Stacia Huyler

    *you know who I feel sorry for,

    Tuesday, December 30, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    Stacia, the fact that you play the I CARE ABOUT CITY WORKERS card is rediculous. You don't care one bit. You want "right to work". You don't want any raises contrary to what you say. Your a joke and 90% of this community know it...

    Tuesday, December 30, 2014 Report this

  • FedUp1

    Notice "UNION THUG " aka stevie d still reverts to name calling but doesn't have the guts to get up at city hall and articulate his point of view......isn't the reason he doesn't is because he is all hot air......by the way Stevie.....Stacia had the guts to run for office and let people know where she stands but you're afraid to get up at city hall and identify yourself. Stevie is a coward.

    Tuesday, December 30, 2014 Report this

  • TheDeal

    A few years ago Rob Cote wanted workers to pay 20% of healthcare which has since come to fruition. So now he wants it upped to 50%. This guy won't be happy until employees are paying the city to come to work. Guys like you are the real reason unions exist.

    Tuesday, December 30, 2014 Report this

  • TheDeal

    I love his demands regarding a misdemeanor being grounds for automatic termination. This coming from a guy with rap sheet like you wouldn't believe!!

    Tuesday, December 30, 2014 Report this

  • Scal1024

    Attacking someone for not speaking at a council meeting? So then is it OK to call Cushman a coward for not running for mayor and actually doing something about these problems he speaks of? Choose your arguments carefully you sound ridiculous.

    I still haven't had a single one of you list a single concession you would make to city employees, in order to make these changes possible. You cannot just rule with an iron fist and expect the unions to say sure we'll pay more for health insurance, earn less benefits, continue to not receive a raise. That's not how you negotiate and its not even a starting point. What concessions would you make?

    Tuesday, December 30, 2014 Report this

  • patientman

    The mayor doesn't see the value of a ten year forecast because of unseen obstacles. But he obligates the taxpayers to fulfill contractual terms that are going to be paid out for 40,50, 60 years down the road. No terms to protect the taxpayer if tax base growth and stock market returns don't meet expected levels. FUBAR

    Tuesday, December 30, 2014 Report this

  • Bob_Cushman

    @Scal1024 your calling me a coward? The big shot hiding behind the veil of the internet.

    Let me know when you grow a set and are willing to articulate your ideas at the microphone at city hall like I did two weeks ago before a mostly rude, ignorant crowd. Or better yet post under your real name or show some real courage by running for office. I already did.

    For the record the name calling and all the other BS attempted by the crowd to try to get me off my game and stop my presentation didn't work. I relished it. I actually would have been disappointed if no one showed up. But city hall was packed ten days before Christmas. That says something doesn't it?

    I also wasn't bother by the foolish, immature, unprofessional antics of the two union presidents. They embarrassed themselves. I wouldn't feel too confident with those two Phi Beta Kappa's representing labor at ongoing contract negotiations. Now I understand why employees have gone 3 years without a raise. Great job Mr. Small and Mr. Lloyd.

    Councilman Gallucci grandstanding also didn't bother me. It actually was kind of sad. He sounded more like a confused old man who forgot to take his medication and was reliving the past.

    The bottom line Scal1024 is that no matter how many personal attacks you or others spew against me and other concerned citizens in the city, this issue is not going away and I think it is pretty clear from these tactics who the real cowards are.

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Scal1024

    Bob, if you read what I said...I asked back "telling someone they are a coward for not speaking at city hall???" I then asked the question is it then ok for me to attack you for not running? The very next thing I said after that was "you sound ridiculous". Which was meant to say that argument is ridiculous. I have defended your right to speak, asked the question " what does it hurt?" by you presenting, ripped the mayor and donna travis for their lack of respect, ripped people in attendance who were disrespectful and have never challenged a single number you put out. Personal attacks? You would have to refresh my memory. You should not judge based on what you think someone believes.

    I have also asked what's realistic in terms of gaining concessions? I believe there is a problem. I have repeatedly said however, that in order to fix the problem the city is going to have to negotiate. Seriously negotiate. I think you misunderstood my last comment, it wasn't meant as a shot at you. Just telling others (some you may know) that not everybody is available to attend meetings. Am I a coward for working? Earning a living? Whether you acknowledge it or not the folks around you sometimes cloud ypur message. You can't say you care about city employees, and then drive around in a truck recording them, waiting for anything you can find to try and get them terminated. People resent that. I appreciate the fact you stood up to get a conversation started. My question is, how does it get fixed without a give and take with the unions?

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Stacia Huyler

    unionthug--why don't you send me a private msg on FB. reveal yourself. then have a meeting with us face to face-- I will keep it confidential. I understand all of this factual information is hard to take and its hard to swallow that you have been deceived for many years. But at least open your mind to how what myself, and many others are doing. You really need to understand that I have nothing against unions, my issues are the corruption occurring within unions, the workers who take advantage of the system is also an issue for me. The fact that we don't have leadership that does not tolerate it either is another problem. There are many good city workers, it's the ones that are bad and dishonest that sets a very bad precedent in the overall minds of the general public. Thats what I really wish you'd understand. If your immediate response is to deny and deflect, then Im thinking its on purpose and intentional and part of your agenda. Do you have anything to hide? Because let me assure you, thats how its coming across. People who have nothing to hide are interested in doing the right thing. We know who is not doing this. So for me that means much is being covered up. And let me assure you, I will not stop until it is all exposed. Ive had many confidential conversations with city workers who asked I keep their identity anonymous and they are DISGUSTED with what is happening behind the scenes. They have face-to=face shared with me that they are afraid to speak up for fear of retaliation and retribution. Read your contracts---that's actually illegal and if any city worker is being harassed or bullied because they speak up about something, you actually have a very good law suit in your hands. I'd also contact the RI ACLU. So carry on union thug--I truly hope workers with a closed mentality like you are not the majority , because if so, it would clearly justify why things are so bad and why you've been taken advantage of for so long. Happy New Year!!! and it will be....

    Union Thug---here--- for you to re-read because I don't think you actually have. This information actually benefits you, and do you really enjoy paying those union dues? I doubt it.

    Myth: Right-to-work laws prohibit unions.

    1. Myth: Right-to-work laws prohibit unions.Fact: Right-to-work laws make union dues voluntary. Without right-to-work laws, unions negotiate contracts that force workers to pay dues or get fired. Right-to-work laws protect workers’ freedom. The National Labor Relations Act also protects the right of workers in right-to-work states to unionize. Unions currently represent 4.4 million workers in 24 right-to-work states, including highly unionized Nevada, Iowa and Michigan.

    Myth: Right-to-work laws undermine unions.

    Fact: Right-to-work laws make unions work to earn workers’ support. In the long run, this can strengthen union locals. Without right-to-work laws, unions can take their members’ dues for granted and provide lower quality representation. Gary Casteel, the Southern region director for the United Auto Workers, explains:

    “This is something I’ve never understood – that people think right to work hurts unions. To me, it helps them. You don’t have to belong if you don’t want to. So if I go to an organizing drive, I can tell these workers, ‘If you don’t like this arrangement, you don’t have to belong.’ Versus, ‘If we get 50 percent of you, then all of you have to belong, whether you like to or not.’ I don’t even like the way that sounds, because it’s a voluntary system, and if you don’t think the system’s earning its keep, then you don’t have to pay.”

    2. Myth: Right-to-work laws allow nonunion members to “free ride” on the benefits of union representation without paying its cost.

    Fact: Unions voluntarily represent non-members. The Supreme Court has repeatedly ruled that the National Labor Relations Act allows unions to negotiate contracts covering only dues-paying members. As Justice Brennan wrote in Retail Clerks v. Dry Lion Goods (1962), “Members only’ contracts have long been recognized.” Unions represent non-members only when they act as “exclusive bargaining representatives,” which requires non-members to accept the union’s representation.

    In that case, the law requires unions to represent non-members fairly. They cannot negotiate high wages for their supporters and the minimum wage for non-members. Unions can avoid representing non-members by disclaiming exclusive representative status.

    3. Myth: Representing non-members costs exclusive representative unions a lot of money.

    Fact: Unions often spend little on representational activities. When unions choose to act as exclusive bargaining representatives, they often spend relatively little on processing grievances and negotiating contracts. Often union contracts have employers cover these costs by allowing union stewards to do union business while on company time. As a result, many union locals spend very little representing workers – either members or non-members.

    Federal filings reveal that in 2013 United Auto Workers Local 2164 in Bowling Green, Kentucky, spent just 2 percent of its $560,000 budget on representational activities. Boilermakers Local 107 in Brookfield, Wisconsin, spent 5 percent of its $2.0 million budget on representational activities. Machinists Lodge 2515 in Alamogordo, N.M., spent 23 percent of its $645,000 budget on representational activities, almost all of which constituted payments to its officers.

    4. Myth: Right-to-work laws lower wages.

    Fact: Workers have the same or higher buying power in right-to-work states. Opponents often deride voluntary dues as “right-to-work for less.” Average wages in right-to-work states are indeed slightly lower than in non-right-to-work states. This occurs because almost every Southern state has a right-to-work law, and the South has a lower cost of living. Studies that control for differences in costs of living find workers in states with voluntary dues have no lower – and possibly slightly higher – real wages than workers in states with compulsory dues.

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • fenceman

    Bob Cushman,

    Bob, I guess that Unionthug/SteveD (aka Warwick Firefighter Steven Dimuccio) and Scal1024 (aka Warwick Firefighter Michael Scalzo) seem to interpret that my posting of the current package offered in Barnstable are my demands for Warwick. Naturally, they then revert to personal attacks and name calling. Nevertheless, they obviously missed the point and the statement in my post that said " I would be interested to see what the dollar saving amount would be , hypothetically, if those measures were instituted." I guess they just did not comprehend the message that in fact, what I listed are the current benefits in Barnstable. Oh well.

    I do find it interesting however Bob, that these individuals have never posted any kind of fiscal plan, proposed cuts, or alternatives to what is current, let alone offer anything in public other than whistles and cat calls. They simply take every opportunity to personally mock (which I am sure they will begin pronto) and ridicule anyone who does post "hypothetical" methods to begin identifying the problem, or methods that have been implemented in other communities that are clearly more solvent than our own.

    Having said that, Bob, do you think (again, hypothetically) that if tomorrow Warwick had, say a 35% healthcare copay, 10 holidays, 7 paid sick days, and a non defined benefit retirement package, that Unionthug/SteveD (aka Warwick Firefighter Steven Dimuccio) and Scal1024 (aka Warwick Firefighter Michael Scalzo) would quit their jobs? Bob, do you think if that was the benefit package that the next time a police or fire school was offered that there would be no one signing up? Do you think that all of the workers would simply walk off the job and enter the private sector to get a better gig? Probably not.

    Again Bob, I am sure that you understood the context of the post that it was NOT my plan for Warwick, but was simply stating the current package offered in another community.

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    I have stated a million times I am not Steve Dimuccio. He has much more class than I ever will.. Stacia you blocked me remember. I can't comminucate. And with regards to union retaliation. There is not one person in my Union afraid to talk back to the president or executive board. Trust me. Once again kore lies that we are mind controlled robots. Why would we post a fiscal plan while negotions are ongoing. Sounds counter productive to me. ONCE AGAIN FOR YOU THAT DONT HAVE A BRAIN I AM NOT STEVE DIMMUCCIO. is your real name Fenceman Cote.

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Scal1024

    Haha if you're going to try and stalk me at least do some better research. I do not, have not ever worked for this city in my life. I am honored you think I'm a firefighter, but I don't have the stones to do what they do... And neither do you. Where is the personal attack? Do you or do you not film DPW employees from a truck during hours the rest of the world works?

    Will city employees walk off the job if benefits are slashed? Probably not. How are those changes going to be made? For the 100th time, you must NEGOTIATE with the unions otherwise it ends up in court. Look no further than state pension reform which is still in need of a solution and if overturned will cost the state millions.

    I appreciate all the effort you put in to try and find out who I am. As usual your stalker methods have failed you. I have said it before (and you took it personally then) but people resent the DPW videos. I know multiple people (not employed by the city) who feel it crosses the line. You were on Dan Yorke and he said that it comes off as creepy (not exactly RI's biggest union backer) You have valid points on Cushman's presentation, don't continue to step on the message by constantly looking for new scandals. That is legitimate constructive criticism, even if you don't agree with it.

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    I do think it's funny that you have to search the employee records to try and find out who we are to attack us. I'm 100% positive you are wrong with both name accusations but keep digging. Stacia I have nothing to hide, i am an extremely hard worker, I was in the private sector as well. I will not tolerate someone like you. Trying to change the rules when you don't even know how to play the game...

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • ..

    union thug-- i can't imagine why you were blocked. message me on my personal FB page--- Don't be so convinced that there is no one in your union afraid to speak up. Why would union workers personally share with me that that's not the case? I've even had parents of union workers reach out to me in disgust. You really need to open your eyes.

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    So Sabrina and Stacia share same screen name. Very interesting you forgot who you were posting under Stacia. So between fenceman/Fedup/Reality/Captain/Sabrina/Stacia tyre really is only Stacia and Rob.. Can't say I dint know that all along. And you wonder why no one believes you....

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    Why do you have two screen names Stacia?

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    Stacia Sabrina, I do enjoy paying my dues. It goes to protecting me from people like you that want to destroy unions. Hypothetical - So if none of us pay Union dues, then we have no money for lawyers when the city illegally takes takes our pension away. Who represents us? Yes that sounds very beneficial to me. I wouldn't have minded if you got elected because then you might actually realize that you can't just walk in on day one and fire everyone. We have unions to protect ourselves from the very foundation you reresent.

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • ..

    Well the Beacon has just resorted to the lowest of the low--- this is Stacia Huyler---I just had to completely re-register under another email to log back into the Beacon to comment here----my other log in was removed I don't know what happened. I don't know who Sabrina V is but now I'm wondering if it's someone who woks for the Beacon?? I was just completely sabotaged.

    This is so disgusting I am beyond words. If anyone wants to contact me directly please do so via my FB page. The Warwick Beacon clearly cannot be trusted. John Howell or whoever is reading this, I pray to GOD your publication days come to an end and the people wake up to your yellow , corrupt journalism.

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • ..

    this is Stacia Huyler again---- the Beacon has actually linked my personal email to "Sabrina V" so no matter what I do now---- my posts show up listed under "SabrinaV"----

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    Playing the Sabotaged card. Love it. You and you sneaky crew are amazing. Chastising us for using a screen name and you are using two and three just to attack us. If you truly think the beacon did something then sue. I don't believ that for a second because your posts from months ago sound exactly like stacias because you are the same. You got caught have some stones to own up to it instead of saying you were SABOTAGED. your a joke...

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • ..

    This is Stacia Huyler again--- John Howell---you really are the lowest of the low. Stay away from my parents and stop sending them Christmas cards as well. Why don't you share with the public what you had to say about the Mayor at the neighborhood Christmas gathering? Im sure Scott would love to hear all about it.

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    Stacia it's simple, next time remember to log out of one email and into another just like Rob does and the you can attack us under any screen name you want. No one at the beacon sa atoned you. You were to stupid to remember who you logged in as....

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • ..

    This is Stacia Huyler again- whether or not it is John Howell responsible for linking my personal email accounts to this fraudulent "SabrinaV" acct-- or someone who works for you, these actions are completely unethical & illegal.

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    Admit it Stacia you screwed up....

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • ..

    unionthug --this is Stacia Huyler again --you don't understand---I just had to use my work email account to create another log in account to get back in again--my other log in account would not let me log in-- no matter what I do now-- my comments are showing up under another name. I just spoke to someone who told me the same thing happened to them. I created another log in account with my name Stacia Huyler1--and my comments show up under the name "SabrinaV" ---sabotage.

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    Is it safe to assume that if you had been elected mayor you would still use fake accounts to chastise people that disagree with you?

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    The same venom you spew came from Sabrina's posts months ago. Don't try to claim you were sabotaged. You have two emails that log in as, you screwed up and thought you were logged in as Stacia but no you were loged in as Sabrina. Just have some stones and admit it. "I just spoke to someone who told me the same thing happend to them". Yea his name is Rob right? Your tru identity always comes out Stacia/Sabrina

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    Maybe aliens sabotaged you.... Someone I talked to last week had aliens sabotage them....

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    This was from Election Day... Pretty funny commenting to yourself Staci/Sabrina

    "Posted 11/3/2014@clueless, @SabrinaV --- this is Stacia Petri here. Whoever Sabrina V is--thank you for your support and paying attention to the truth that I will dutifully continue to share with the public. You are so correct, both Colantuono & Avedisian are an insult to the Republican party & why I stand by my not supporting phony politicians. Clueless--- that you certainly are. I'm flattered that you even took the time to express your cluelessness. As far as the Warwick Beacon is concerned---the public is realizing more and more every day how biased this newspaper is---in fact it's so obvious that the Beacon should all be ashamed of themselves. Whoever else is reading this (most likely few) that votes and lives in Warwick, feel free to write my name in tomorrow and don't forget to connect those arrows! Thanks! :)"

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    Stacia/Sabrina. Do you remember your other email log in Ms Mayor.. Did so,some steal your ID then too. Sounds a lot like Stacia... How many log in do you have?

    On 7/23/14 at 01:43 PM, MsMayor wrote:

    That lady knows exactly what she is doing and she is brilliant. I was at her meet & greet and she gave her personal time to each and every one of us. The Beacon isn't being fair to her. Stacia knows exactly what needs to get done, first thing: becoming mayor, because 14 years of Avedisian is far too long and we are being deceived. As a small business owner who is struggling and getting harassed by this city every day... the current mayor absolutely needs to go because they do not care about us, all of us...the tax payers! Warwick needs a smart fiscal conservative in office..vote Stacia in!!

    You all want to see the information she's posting on her Facebook page and website!! https://www.facebook.com/StaciaforMayor http://staciaformayor.com/facebook/

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Scal1024

    How embarrassing... And to think you wanted to run this city. You had alot to say Stacia. I can't wait to go back and look at all the great things SabrinaV said about Stacia during the campaign. Just as I suspected a FRAUD!!!!

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • StaciaHuyler

    ..

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • StaciaHuyler

    union thug--thank goodness my husband works in IT-- so you realize that there are many who were part of my campaign, right? you also realize there are many friends and family that support me? get over your conspiracy theories please.

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    Before you post Stacia be aware of who your logged in as. Until you come clean and admit you use multiple names I'll continue to call you out. I find it amusing that you didn't say anything about being sabotaged until I called you out. If your husband works in IT have him show you how to log in and out, so you don't screw up next time....

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    People with a moral compass know when to admit their faults...

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Smarterthanyou

    It's kinda funny that since Stacia was "sabotaged' (that's cute) anything that she commented on shows up as ".." for her screen name, just like they did on this thread previously. Check out other article comments... Not that people didn't know it was her, or even care for that matter. She's irrelevant.

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    Sabrina/Stacia/msmayor, when were you hacked, because two weeks ago your posts under Sabrina were Stacias words verbatim. Meaning you were "sabatoged" weeks ago and you only just found out... You must think we are really dumb. No one sabatoged you. You were wrong and can't admit it. If you were elected you were gonna be no better than the current mayor. Your 15 minutes are up admit it or go away....

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    "That lady knows exactly what she is doing and she is brilliant.". Stacia says about Stacia..... Reminds me of a movie called Something about Mary..

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    Sorry I meant Me Myself and Irene

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    BTW I'm not working and have a lot of free time today...

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Smarterthanyou

    @Unionthug, I wish there was a like button on here!

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    I had to call her out, she claims this whole "perfect person" persona when in reality her and her crew just troll the Internet attacking people under different names. It's actually sad when you have a conversation with yourself under different screen names. Borderline sadistic... I'm sure she will run agin. I just hope she remembers this time that all those screen names whe made up aren't actually voters voting for her.

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    One other thing Stacia/Sabrina/msmayor, if such a Sabotage had occurred how come you haven't said one word on facebook. Obviously if such a travesty had occurred as someone sabatoging your email you would have announced it to your Facebook followers. You have posted other stuff but not one mention of this "iIllegal act"...

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Scal1024

    Stacia should I call WPD and ask for a full investigation? I mean since this is such a serious charge. We should get the proper authorities involved correct? Not even your buddies can defend you on this one. You got caught, admit it and move on!

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • patientman

    People b crazy

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Scal1024

    I would invite anyone to look at some articles relative to politics on this page. Read the many comments under those articles posted by Stacia posing as SabrinaV (the account is now deleted so it will show up as posted by " "). You will find SabrinaV talking up Stacia policies, her fb page, her meet and greet. She claimed that city workers were drunk at Cushman's presentation with no evidence whatsoever. All of this is a lie. All of it one woman having a conversation with herself about how great she is.Is this acceptable behavior? Mr. Cushman, Cote, Dempsey? Shame on you! This is the woman you thought should run the city??? Where are you guys today? People on here called her for what she was a long time ago, an empty pants suit.

    The one thing Rob Cote can be thankful for, I'm sure he will never log in again without triple checking what screen name its under first (realty, fenceman, the captain). After this one thing I know for sure

    ..it really is going to be a very Happy New Year!!!! Can't wait to tell folks all about this.

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Scal1024

    I would invite anyone to look at some articles relative to politics on this page. Read the many comments under those articles posted by Stacia posing as SabrinaV (the account is now deleted so it will show up as posted by " "). You will find SabrinaV talking up Stacia policies, her fb page, her meet and greet. She claimed that city workers were drunk at Cushman's presentation with no evidence whatsoever. All of this is a lie. All of it one woman having a conversation with herself about how great she is.Is this acceptable behavior? Mr. Cushman, Cote, Dempsey? Shame on you! This is the woman you thought should run the city??? Where are you guys today? People on here called her for what she was a long time ago, an empty pants suit.

    The one thing Rob Cote can be thankful for, I'm sure he will never log in again without triple checking what screen name its under first (realty, fenceman, the captain). After this one thing I know for sure

    ..it really is going to be a very Happy New Year!!!! Can't wait to tell folks all about this.

    Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Report this

  • Unionthug

    I haven't seen Rob, Bob or Roy coming out to help their internet troll Stacia/Sabrina.... Three Stooges Politics.

    Thursday, January 1, 2015 Report this

  • Unionthug

    Don't worry Stacia/Sabrina/.. I'm sure this will all blow over soon....

    Thursday, January 1, 2015 Report this

  • Bob_Cushman

    Unfortunately the main topic of this article as been hijacked as a result of the irrelevant gibberish going back and forth more inductive of the type of online banter between two immature adolescences, never mind adult.

    Sadly, this is very similar to the behavior of many of the city workers, union leaders and some city council members at my December 15 presentation. Use presonnal attacks to detract from the converstaion at hand.

    As someone who works for the city, how do you feel knowing that the Mayor has made it know that he is incapable of creating a long-term strategic fiscal plan for the city? If my future retirement benefits depended on the policies of the mayor and city council regarding if the funds will be in the plans when I retire, I would be more concerned about that and not the foolish name calling taking place here.

    Friday, January 2, 2015 Report this

  • Scal1024

    I would be discouraged too if i found out my tens of followers were just the same 3 people. Personal attacks Bob? As usual you throw out garbage and hope it sticks. The fact is I said 2 weeks ago the people you surround yourself with step all over your message. Fast forward 2 weeks later and how's that working for you?

    I told you I don't dispute what you've put forward, but how does it get done? How do you tell unions pay more for health insurance, more towards pensions, less sick and vacation time, all while earning no wage increases. It sounds good on paper (and is red meat to the electorate) but in reality it is a non starter.

    I appreciate you trying to get the message back, but all of the "support" that has been claimed on here by Stacia and Cote is a mirage. Surround yourself with better folks and maybe then people will listen.

    Friday, January 2, 2015 Report this

  • bendover

    OY VEY!!!! What's not to understand...Big shots, insiders, politicians, accountants and even some actuaries looked the other way for decades while contracts were negotiated in bad faith, fraud, racketeering, breech of financial responsibility and due diligence. Agreements were made that were known to be financially reckless, unsustainable, and paving the way to default or insolvency. New or young union members were thrown under the same bus as all taxpayers, promises made were already known to be untrue and could never be kept. So Mr. Mayor, and city council, how do propose to unwind this mess? How do you deal with a problem of this magnitude with a shrinking population, taxable properties coming off the tax rolls due to the airport or future tax stabilization or economic incentives, (giveaways) far too many vacant retail store fronts, and a crumbling infrastructure that has been ignored for far too long? Please tell us there is a plan in place, that there is a well thought out, cogent and financially viable plan to extricate Warwick from the briar patch, after all, after 14 years as Mayor, and several long standing members of the council, I'm sure you have the solution? What's that you say....in a whisper...CHAPTER 9??? That's what I thought you've been saying all along, only you've been going the long way around the barn, trying to hoodwink people again. HAPPY 2015, and good luck.

    Friday, January 2, 2015 Report this

  • Scal1024

    Petri, Cushman, Cote, and Dempsey have been silent. They attack others on here for childish behavior, atleast others step up and face the music. Others are willing to legitimately debate issues, state their opinion and call out fraud politicians. It is an embarrassment that Stacia and the people who support her choose to hide.

    I hope the Beacon reads this carefully, the behavior of Stacia and the people around her is unacceptable. You cannot make up false names in order to create fake support for policies. Stacia disrespected voters under the name "SabrinaV", only to turn around under her own name and act compassionate toward those same voters. This is simply psychotic and can ABSOLUTELY NOT go unreported.

    Bob Cushman only wants to talk about what's convenient for him, that has always been the case. He will not touch this one, because he's still cleaning egg off his face. Answer the question Bob, is what Stacia did acceptable to you?

    Saturday, January 3, 2015 Report this

  • Norm88

    "The less you associate with some people, the more your life will improve.

    Any time you tolerate mediocrity in others, it increases your mediocrity. An

    important attribute in successful people is their impatience with negative

    thinking and negative acting people. As you grow, your associates will

    change. Some of your friends will not want you to go on. They will want you

    to stay where they are. Friends that don't help you climb will want you to

    crawl. Your friends will stretch your vision or choke your dream. Those that

    don't increase you will eventually decrease you."

    "Consider this:

    Never receive counsel from unproductive people. Never discuss your problems

    with someone incapable of contributing to the solution, because those who

    never succeed themselves are always first to tell you how. Not everyone has

    a right to speak into your life. You are certain to get the worst of the

    bargain when you exchange ideas with the wrong person. Don't follow anyone

    who's not going anywhere."

    Tuesday, January 6, 2015 Report this

  • Notbornyesterday

    How come the once vocal Cote/stacia/Sabrina/Cushman/Dempsey group is so quiet? They aren't going to address Stacia/Sabrina's sabbotogging. Figures. ITS NOT GOING AWAY I PROMISE... ILL EXPOSE THE FRAUD SHE IS...

    Wednesday, January 7, 2015 Report this

  • Notbornyesterday

    So true to her form I posted a question on Stacia/Sabrina's Facebook page to let her brainless followers know about why she would lie, and post attacks under fake accounts and being the coward she is I was blocked in 2 minutes. Stay classy Stacia...

    Wednesday, January 7, 2015 Report this

  • Scal1024

    I can't say I'm surprised to hear you were blocked. Anytime Stacia or Bob Cushman have been asked a question they are very selective in how they answer it or if they'll answer it at all. Unfunded pensions are a problem nationwide, anyone with a newspaper since '08 could tell you that. You want to be innovative? How do you fix it? I asked the question of Cushman, Cote, Stacia and it has been radio silence. I never claimed to be an expert but at least I threw ideas out there. At least I responded (even if they didn't like it) to what they said.

    To Stacia i would say your days in Warwick politics are over. People are finding out the type of person you are. You can hide behind Facebook posts as long as you'd like, but people now know about you. I would have respected you more if you had just come forward and said "I made a mistake". The fact you claimed sabotage by the Beacon is an embarrassment to you, the city, your campaign and every single person who supported you. You always reccomend people contact you, yet when they do and have a differing opinion you run away or block them. You, Cushman and Cote can keep claiming to be the " people's advocate " but the people see you all for what you really are

    Wednesday, January 7, 2015 Report this

  • warwickcitizen1

    wow.... this is gold. she tried it again on this article! http://warwickonline.com/stories/social-media-incites-debate-over-transgender-bathroom-use,112072?comment_result=posted#comments-post

    Wednesday, May 4, 2016 Report this