More Transparency is a Good Thing for NYC Retirees

Editor’s Note: Harry Weiner is New York City Municipal retiree who spent years working for the New York City Housing Authority [NYCHA]. He remains an active part of both the Council of Municipal Retiree Organizations [COMRO] and the New York City Organization of Public Service Retirees.

By Harry Weiner

Reviewing the original bylaws of the New York City Organization of Public Services Retirees (sent to me upon request) reinforces my belief that all members should be informed that they have the same right.  For the sake of transparency.

Sending an informational email and posting the bylaws on its website would be ideal for transparency, even if not legally required.

General Members (for at least six months, in good standing) would then learn that they can examine upon request the Minutes of the annual meetings of the Members and a list of the Members of the Organization. In addition to the nomination and voting process, and the voting rights pertaining to different classes of membership.

They should also be informed that - consistent with State Not-For-Profit laws and regulations—the annual balance sheet and profit and loss statement, or a similar financial statement for the preceding fiscal year, can be provided upon request.

Members should also be informed that  “the governing documents, conflict of interest statement and financial statements are available upon request,” as stated on NYCOPSR’S most recent filed IRS 990 form, available online from ProPublica.

I have faced criticism that my advocacy for transparency undermines NYCOPSR’s objectives, and questions its integrity. Nothing could be further from the truth.

All volunteers deserve accolades for tirelessly working in pursuit of maintaining our hard earned health benefits.

Two things can be true at once. NYCOPSR has accomplished much for retirees (most recently the $53 million copay settlement) and there needs to be greater transparency.

Council Speaker Julie Menin has championed transparency initiatives in government. We need her on our side.

The MLC hasn’t publicized its bylaws and has violated them by not yet electing a new Chair.

Demonstrating our stark contrast with the opaque MLC by being more transparent could help win Council support.