Port Houston is the latest local government to achieve specific transparency goals related to public pensions through the Comptroller’s Transparency Stars program, Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar has announced.
Port Houston received a Transparency Star in the area of public pensions, awarded to local governments with websites providing visual and narrative explanations of actuarial valuations, contribution rates and benchmark comparisons and meet other criteria.
“Port Houston should be congratulated for its ongoing commitment to greater public trust. This effort achieves the goals set by our Transparency Stars program,” Hegar said. “Public pension transparency is increasingly important to Texas taxpayers. With this achievement, Port Houston has shown itself to be a leader in responsible fiscal management.”
The Comptroller’s office launched the Transparency Stars program in March 2016 to recognize cities, counties, school districts and special purpose districts making important strides toward greater government transparency. After receiving a Traditional Finances star, local entities can go on to apply in other areas.
The Transparency Stars program recognizes local governments that provide easy online access to important financial data.
Port Houston was previously awarded two stars, for Traditional Finances and Debt Obligations. For more information on the program, including specific guidelines and instructions on how to apply, visit the Comptroller’s Transparency Stars website at: https://comptroller.texas.gov/transparency/local/stars/.