At our November Membership Meeting, Julie Wyne, CEO of SCERA (our retirment system) brought us up to date on what is happening in the effort to have the Board of Supervisors grant a COLA.
Legislation will be needed to do this as the Board is not willing to fund the 80% purchasing COLA that is now in legislation. The effort has started moving but there will be no COLA in 2026. We recorded Julie’s presentation and you can see it on the link below.
Also discussed is the fact that the retirees covered by the SCARE settlement agreement with the county (those who retired before 6/30/2016) will have the county contribution to their health insurance decreased to $200 as of 6/1/26. We need members to write to the Board of Supervisors asking them to reopen the settlement agreement and increase the amount they will contribute, since they are contributing $500 to people who retired after that date. You might mention how much you have lost in purchasing power due to no COLA. If you click on link below, page 3 of the document shows percentage of a COLA it would take to get you to 80% of the original value based on your retirement date. So when writing to the BOS, you need to add 20% to show your total loss of purchasing power. Click on link for this report.
"To promote and protect the welfare and interests of Sonoma County retired employees in all ways compatible with the public interest — monitoring actions at federal, state, and county levels, supporting beneficial legislation, and disseminating pertinent information to our members."
The Sonoma County Association of Retired Employees (SCARE) is a California Nonprofit Corporation dedicated to promoting and protecting the welfare and interests of Sonoma County retired employees.
We monitor federal, state, and county actions that affect retiree benefits and advocate on your behalf.
Get guidance on health insurance options and stay informed about changes that impact your coverage.
Join a vibrant community of fellow retirees at luncheons, meetings, and social events.
Access important legal information and resources to protect your retirement interests.
Updates on COLA advocacy, insurance changes, and upcoming membership meeting plans
Highlights ongoing COLA advocacy, pension updates from SCERA, scholarship winners, and membership meeting details
Updates on COLA advocacy efforts, health benefit discussions, and upcoming membership meeting highlights
Join over 2,000 Sonoma County retirees who are staying informed, connected, and protected. Annual membership is as low as $20.
Get timely updates on pensions, COLA changes, health insurance options, and access to helpful legal resources when you need them.
Enjoy member luncheons, special events, and meaningful opportunities to connect with fellow retirees.
Take part in advocacy efforts and discover scholarship opportunities for your family members.
Quick access to important information and resources for Sonoma County retirees.
Stay updated on pension news, COLA adjustments, and retirement system information.
Health insurance options, Medicare supplements, and coverage guidance for retirees.
Additional resources, links, and information for Sonoma County retirees.
Meet the dedicated volunteers who lead SCARE and advocate for Sonoma County retirees.
Find answers to your questions about Sonoma County Retiree options.
We're here to help you!
Any person retired from Sonoma County service, surviving spouses of deceased Sonoma County retirees, and other interested parties as associate members are welcome to join SCARE.
Annual membership is just $20 per year. This helps support our advocacy efforts, newsletter production, and member services.
Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) help retirees maintain their purchasing power. Currently, the Board of Supervisors has not approved a COLA for retirees. SCARE is actively advocating for fair COLA adjustments to protect our members’ retirement security. No COLA is expected in 2026, but legislative efforts are underway.
Under the 2016 settlement agreement, retirees who retired before June 30, 2016 will see their county health insurance contribution decrease to $200/month as of June 1, 2026. Those who retired after that date receive $500/month. SCARE is advocating for the Board of Supervisors to reopen the settlement and increase the contribution amount.
Join SCARE to receive our quarterly newsletter, attend general membership meetings, and access updates through our website. Members receive timely information about pension, health insurance, and legislative changes.
