From June 2-3, 2021, the Illinois Public Pension and Advisory Committee (IPPAC) hosted the organization’s 25th conference at Jumer’s Hotel and Casino in Rock Island, IL. Police and firefighter pension board trustees participated in continuing education sessions which included a mock disability hearing, legal updates, ethics and information on legislation affecting police and firefighters. Among the most discussed topics was that of Illinois public pension consolidation including what to expect and outlines of the lawsuit filed with the state. The second day was devoted to Mandatory Transition Training.
Last year’s conference was cancelled due to the COVID pandemic. This year, the event was a hybrid event with fully-vaccinated people attending on-premise at Jumer’s and a large number of attendees learning via Zoom.
Video
Please click the video on this page to watch this session at the IPPAC Conference.
IPPAC was pleased to make the following announcements at the event:
Awards
IPPAC President, Ray Cordell, presented two awards to individuals who deserve recognition.
The Jerry Kosic Award is presented to a member of IPPAC who has contributed greatly above and beyond expectations for the good of the organization and its mission. This year, John Karecki was the recipient for his contributions to IPPAC including support continuing education for pension fund trustees. John was unable to be present for the award.
For the first time, IPPAC, in recognition of unwavering support and commitment to integrity, bestowed John T. Mitchell, J.D. with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Attorney Mitchell graciously accepted the award in person.
Announcement of Change
Attorney Cary Collins, who was unable to attend the conference due to health issues, made a special appearance via Zoom. He announced that he will be transitioning this year to Emeritus status. He also named his successor.
Tom Radja of the Law Office of Collins, Radja, and Hartwell will now be the General Counsel for IPPAC. Tom has been an avid supporter of police and firefighters for over 22 years.
Cary will still be around acting as a consultant, and the members of the Law Office of Collins, Radja, and Hartwell including Tom Radja himself, Thomas Hartwell, and David Majia will continue to serve Illinois police and fire pension trustees and their constituents for years to come.
Congrats, Tom, and congratulations to all the award winners at this year’s conference.