City benefit plan increased

City of Columbus employees will enjoy a larger retirement courtesy of city council members who unanimously approved an increase in the city's contribution rate to the Texas Municipal Retirement System.

Previously, the city's benefits package included a 150 percent matching contribution for city employees contributing six percent of their paycheck to their retirement fund. Columbus city manager David Meisell proposed increasing the city's matching amount to 200 percent, which, he said, would significantly improve employees' retirement after a 30-year career. Council approved the proposed increase Monday night.

In comparison, neighboring cities including Weimar, Sealy, Eagle Lake, Hallettsville and Bellville are already at a 200 percent match. Meisell said of the 15 cities included in his study, only two will be less than the 200 percent position as of Jan. 1.

During city manager's reports an update was given regarding recent discussion between the city and the Columbus Convention and Visitors Bureau. According to a Dec. 3 memo from Meisell, city representatives met with CCVB representatives to discuss CCVB bylaws, articles of incorporation and 501(c)6 status. The group agreed to revise the bylaws and once that is done update the articles of incorporation and then continue the process for 501(6) status. A follow-up meeting was not scheduled.

Also included in the report were drainage improvements, river status, Cardinal Hill well and the city striping project.

In other business the council: