Retirees' Attorney Says Pensions Were 'Properly Awarded'

The attorney for three of four retired firefighters whose pensions were referred to the state retirement board on Oct. 24 said that the retirement benefits were handled correctly.

"Everyone was properly awarded disability pensions under their collective bargaining agreement," said Atty. Elizabeth Wiens, who represented Henry J. Albanese III, Anthony Capelli, and Paul Delvecchio at the Johnston Retirement Board meeting. "None of these individuals applied for retirement. They received letters saying they had to retire."

Joseph Rodio Jr., the attorney for the town, pointed out that the pensions in question were decided by the town, which conflicts with a state law passed in 1999.

"Disability determinations are made by the State Retirement Board," said Rodio, who also said that state statutes take precedence over union contracts.

Former Fire Chief Victor Cipriano attended the session with his own attorney. None of the retirees testified.

In separate 6-0 votes, the local pension committee referred the four pensions to the state retirement board for review. The firefighters' union, IAFF Local 1950, does not have a representative on the board.

The board continued a decision on a fifth pension, currently being paid to the widow of the late Timothy Grissom, until a future meeting.

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