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Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.

With prospective cuts looming, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa has to be concerned about the city budget. But how much influence should he exert?

As reported in the Los Angeles Times, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa has been leaning on the public retirement boards who oversee city employees’ pension plans. The seven-member panel that oversees the $11 billion portfolio has been debating lowering the long-term projection of its investment return from 8 percent to 7.75 percent, and will vote on the issue today.

The change would mean upping the city’s contribution to the fund by nearly $27 million next year. Two weeks ago, Villaraigosa warned the panel that this would necessitate a new round of layoffs, and asked them to delay the decision for a year. Two panel members who have recently been removed from their positions contend that the act was payback for going against the mayor’s wishes.

Villaraigosa has also been reportedly trying to influence the Fire and Police Pensions board to disregard a legal opinion that affects the health benefits owed to retired police and firefighters. Pension board members are publicly appointed and supposed to be free of political influence – but they feel the recent firings are meant to send a message to them to toe the mayor’s line.

Police and firefighter labor representatives think he’s trying to balance next year’s budget on the backs of their members.

WEIGH IN:

Officials from Villaraigosa's office say there’s nothing wrong with him expressing his opinion when it comes to cutting corners - in fact, he should be involved. But is he going too far? Is this responsible budget-minding, or an undue flexing of mayoral muscle? How much mixing should he be allowed to do?

Guest:

Miguel A. Santana, Los Angeles City Administrative Officer

Roberta Conroy, former president, City Employees’ Retirement System

Bob Stern, former president of the Center for Governmental Studies