Guns & Hoses 2009

On September 13-15, 2009, Trustees from across the United States gathered for the 17th Annual Guns & Hoses Fire and Police Public Pension Fund Forum. Speakers, delegates and VIPs from over 30 States and Canada gathered to exchange ideas about the rapidly changing economy, the new administration, current issues facing trustees and new opportunities presented to Pensions by these changes. Focused on educating Trustees in their fiduciary responsibilities as well as provide a platform to address current challenges and threats to Public Pensions; by all accounts, the conference succeeded in its goal.

KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE

Trustees and thought leaders from across the United States shared their ideas and knowledge of Public Pensions. Day one of the forum focused on the key economic and investment challenges facing Public Pensions, CIO’s Kirk Miller of the Fire & Police Pension of COLORADO and David Deutsch of SAN DIEGO kicked off the conference with a lively discussion about key issues surrounding reallocation and pension fund investment returns. Keynote economist Alan Maguire of the Maguire Group gave Trustees a bit of insight into what caused the crash of 2008 and what it will take to rebuild the economy.

Also taking place on the first day was the mock debate set up by trustees:

• Patrick Lynch, Tampa Fire & Police Pension Fund (FLORIDA)
• Gerry Rusinski, City of Atlanta Fire Pension Fund (GEORGIA)
• Pete Morin, Austin Police Retirement System (TEXAS)
• Marv Fisher, City of Wichita (KANSAS)
• and Bill Rubin, City of Philadelphia Board of Pensions (PENNSYLVANIA).

They gave a noteworthy performance acting out a situation whereby the plan sponsor decided to suspend contributions. Weighing the pros and cons, the group debated what was in the best interest of the plan.

Day Two broke into tracks and allowed attendees to tailor their educational experience. Topics ranged from Fiduciary Responsibility Basics to Portfolio Rebalancing to Risk Management where industry experts alongside veteran trustees gave their insight to delegates.

The final day of the conference centered on new role of risk management in Trustee’s duties. How to prevent fraud was something many attendees raised questions on.

RELATIONSHIP BUILDING

Trustees had more opportunities than ever to network with peers this year. From our highly successful round table discussion to our care package “Big Build” and cocktail receptions, trustees spoke head to head to discuss changes taking place within their funds.

 

STAY TUNED FOR UPDATES ON GUNS & HOSES 2010!