Last week, leaders and members from across Missouri gathered in Springfield for the Missouri Local Government Employees Retirement System’s (LAGERS) 58th Annual Meeting. Each year, this meeting brings together member and employer representatives, system leadership, and staff to exchange ideas, share insights, and celebrate the people who make local government work.
More than just a formal business meeting, the annual gathering serves as a cornerstone of connection and collaboration for the LAGERS community. Attendees came away with a deeper understanding of how their system is managed, what’s ahead for the organization, and how their individual roles contribute to the continued strength and sustainability of the system.
The agenda was filled with sessions designed to inform and empower. This year, two tracks offered various educational presentations focusing on either member or employer topics. Employer-focuses session included discussion on employer contribution rates, actuarial valuations, and plan administration that gave participants practical knowledge they can take back to their organizations as plan administrators. Discussions around defined benefit plans and member-employer partnerships helped reinforce the shared responsibility of maintaining a secure and reliable retirement benefit for Missouri’s local government workforce.
The Legislative Advisory Committee also met during the event to discuss legislation and policy topics that could affect the system in the coming year. The committee’s discussions included an in-depth look at the future of LAGERS’ Life and Temporary (LT) plans and how potential updates could better serve members and employers alike. This ongoing dialogue helps ensure that LAGERS’ legislative priorities continue to reflect the needs and perspectives of those we serve.
Delegates also participated in the election of trustees to the LAGERS board, an important reminder that the system’s governance is driven by its members and employers. This participatory process ensures that every voice — from the smallest town to the largest county — plays a role in shaping LAGERS’ future. Chad Munsey, employer trustee from the city of Springfield, was re-elected to continue serving on the board. Erich Weimer, assistant chief of police for the city of Webster Groves, was elected to his first term as a member trustee. Both will serve terms ending Dec. 31, 2029.
The celebration of the Local Government Hero Award was another highlight of the event. This recognition honors an individual whose everyday contributions exemplify the dedication, service, and leadership that define local government. The award serves as a powerful reminder that behind every policy and every pension calculation are real people who make a difference in their communities each day. Andrè Williams from the city of Macon was honored as this year’s Local Government Hero.
LAGERS looks forward to welcoming even more members and employers to next year’s gathering to continue learning, connecting, and celebrating the spirit of public service that drives Missouri forward.
