FROM: Christina Cintron, Chief of Member Services
SUBJECT: Returning Retiree Certification: Fredrick Minassian
RECOMMENDATION:
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Deny the request to extend the employment of Fredrick Minassian from May 7, 2026, through December 31, 2026, in accordance with SBCERA Benefits Policy No. 032, "Retirees Returning to Work." The request does not meet the policy criteria for extensions beyond the 18-month employment limit.
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BACKGROUND:
The California Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2013 (PEPRA) establishes limitations for retirees returning to work in the same retirement system from which they receive a pension. Under SBCERA Benefits Policy No. 032, extensions beyond 18 consecutive months of re-employment must be approved by the Board of Retirement and are permitted only under conditions of Extreme Necessity and for a Limited Duration.
Fredrick Minassian retired from the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) on November 24, 2018, after 31.5 years of service, concluding his career as an Assistant Deputy Executive Officer. His original returning retiree certification covered the period from July 1, 2024, through July 1, 2025, during which he served as a Board Member Consultant to Governing Board Member Veronica Padilla-Campos.
In September 2024, SBCERA provided SCAQMD with written clarification that Board Member Consultant positions do not meet the criteria for independent contractor status and are subject to the returning retiree provisions in Benefits Policy No. 032. SCAQMD acknowledged receipt and understanding of this clarification.
CURRENT REQUEST:
SCAQMD requests approval to extend Mr. Minassian's employment from May 7, 2026, through December 31, 2026, in the role of Board Member Consultant for Governing Board Member Adrin Nazarian, who was appointed on February 27, 2026.
Extreme Necessity:
The employer has not demonstrated that this request meets the Extreme Necessity requirement under SBCERA Benefits Policy No. 032....
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