Council approves three resolutions transferring certain employees into law-enforcement and correctional pension systems

The Dorchester County Council adopted three related resolutions affecting employee pension coverage and county contribution responsibilities.

Resolution 691 authorizes the withdrawal of eligible emergency services personnel from the Employee Pension System (EPS) and their transfer to the Law Enforcement Officers' Pension (LEOP) effective July 1, 2026. Resolution 692 makes the county a participating governmental unit in the correctional officers pension system so eligible correctional officers may be transferred from EPS to that system effective July 1, 2026. Resolution 693 affirms that the county will pick up required employer contributions for the correctional officers and EPS accounts as required by the state.

Each resolution was moved, seconded and approved by roll-call/voice vote at the council meeting. The record shows affirmative votes for the named roll-call participants and no recorded negative votes; staff noted the actions will align Dorchester’s pension participation with state pension systems and help the county retain officers.

The measures take effect July 1, 2026; staff and the county attorney will complete administrative steps necessary to effect the transfers and notify affected employees.