Expense and liability forecasts have increased as a larger number of employees approach retirement age as the system was originally constructed. Compounding liability has made the program cost prohibitive.
The issue was brought forth in January but tabled due to concerns raised by a long-time employee. A recommendation was made and approved at Thursday's regular meeting to discontinue the program with the exception of retirees currently benefiting and current employees with at least 20 years of continuous service having reached the age of 55 prior to Dec. 31, 2011.
Also approved Thursday was a resolution establishing the five ethics principles for conduct of city officials. This approval will allow Adairsville to apply for participation in the Georgia Municipal Association Certified City of Ethics program.
Last on the agenda was authorization to proceed with charter revisions. The city charter is being revised to reflect current operations, including the city manager-style government that has been practiced in Adairsville for several years. Approval gained Thursday allows for work to continue updating the charter for the first time since 1983.
Charter revisions must be approved by the Georgia General Assembly and aiding in this process is State Rep. Christian Coomer, R-Cartersville. At Tuesday's work session, Coomer addressed the council as to progress of the revisions.
He raised a concern over broad language regarding firearms within city limits. Adairsville City Manager Pat Crook said City Attorney Boyd Pettit has been in discussion with Coomer and State Rep. Barry Loudermilk, R-Cassville, on the issue.