In September 2001, Childs retired after 23 years with Methuen. She served as the city treasurer for some 4 years, having been the assistant treasurer during the previous 18 years.

Up until a couple of years ago, the treasurer's office not only disbursed the insurance funds to the various carriers but also administered the program. With such an extensive insurance background, Childs was a natural choice as the retiree representative on the city's insurance advisory committee after her retirement.

Now with the establishment of the insurance bargaining coalition, Childs has taken another step by accepting our offer to be the Association's representative on this committee. As required by the coalition bargaining law, she has a 10% vote on any health insurance package for Methuen's retirees, survivors and employees.

Additionally, Childs sits on a special bargaining committee, which represents the larger coalition and all its member units, in negotiations with the city. Serving with her on this committee are Diane Dandretta (teachers), Jim Trott (firefighters), Gordon Blaquiere (clerical, etc.), Jim Gunter (patrolmen) and Mike Gagliardi (DPW).

"I thank the Association for placing their confidence in me while serving on this very important committee," states Childs. "Retirees can be assured that during these difficult fiscal times we will do our utmost to maintain your current health insurance benefits at a reasonable cost."

Currently, there are approximately 350 retirees and survivors insured under the health insurance plans offered by Methuen, which is self-insured. Most are Medicare recipients, insured by the city's supplement insurance plan provided through Tufts PPO.