Starke County Council Discusses Sheriff Retirement Fund

The Starke County Council members considered an additional appropriation this week regarding the Sheriff’s Department Retirement Fund.

As explained by Merit Board Officer Ed Troike during the council and commissioner’s joint meeting in November, the county’s required contribution experienced a shortfall in 2018 and has a shortfall in 2019.  By law, Troike says the county can’t underfund the Retirement Pension contribution for three consecutive years.

The funds come from casino money, earned interest, officer’s contributions, and the county council.

The number funded by the county fluctuates every year depending on a variety of variables including staffing, the amount the staff is paid, and the performance of the investments in the market. 

The council agreed to advertise for an additional appropriation for $61,554 out of the Jail CEDIT, but the amount actually calculated on Monday was $55,913.  Another contribution came in for the funds and another amount was found in another line item in the budget. That amended amount was unanimously approved by the council Monday night. 

Going forward, a line item will be created in the sheriff’s budget so it can be properly funded by the county council and the sheriff’s department.