Rhonda is the Resilient Watchdog We Need in Financially Uncertain Times

My name is Rhonda Smith, and it has been my honor to serve as your HMEPS Position 4 Trustee and Board Secretary. As I approach 20 years as an HMEPS member and a current HOPE member, I understand the importance of our workforce and our contributions to the city. Fighting for Our Pension is my priority.

Key Trustee Accomplishments: When elected four years ago, I made three key promises: safeguard investments, improve technology and online access, and enhance communication. Here’s what we’ve achieved:

  • Investments: Approved successful investment strategy.  Our pension has grown by $1 billion in the past four years due to successful investment strategies. We have more money in our pension today than we did before, ensuring sustainability.

  • Technology: Supported major technology overhaul to provide members with secure, user-friendly access to information. Work has started!

  • Communication: Initiated a social media/text campaign, reaching over 1,000+ with pension information.

Experience Matters: My extensive experience is crucial for leading a stronger and more secure pension system. As the former HMEPS Executive Director and Deputy Director for the Houston Firefighters Pension Fund, I understand pension complexities and effective oversight. I am the only candidate for HMEPS Board of Trustees Position 4 who has successfully negotiated HMEPS Meet and Confer contracts. As Deputy Director and Chief Financial Officer for the Houston Police Department, I manage a complex $1 billion+ budget. I also earned my MBA while working full-time as a city employee.

  • Combined 30 Years of Financial and Pension Experience
    Rhonda developed, coordinated and implemented the governmental strategy for state and federal legislation to assist in securing our financial futures.

  • Watchdog of Our Pension
    Rhonda will advocate in Austin for our benefits while keeping a watchful eye on the transactions of the city that may impact our future.

  • Sound Investment Strategy
    Rhonda successfully negotiated the Meet and Confer contract that created more revenue for the pension.

  • Improve Education + Advocacy
    Rhonda will work to enhance mobile, onsite one-on-one educational opportunities and enhanced online tools.