11 Investigates: County executive accuses DA of playing politics amid pension fund controversy

Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato is pushing back against District Attorney Stephen Zappala regarding the state of the county pension fund. The fund faces a $1.4 billion unfunded liability and a sobering report indicates it could become insolvent by 2043 without significant intervention.

Zappala recently issued a press release calling for independent oversight of the system. He alleges that years of poor management and political decisions led to the current financial instability. The DA previously filed a lawsuit two years ago against the county and the retirement board on these grounds.

Innamorato rejects these criticisms as political theater. She points out that her administration established a new board at the start of her term and has engaged experts to analyze the situation. She emphasizes that her team is working toward a solution, which may require coordination with state lawmakers in Harrisburg.

While the debate between the two officials continues, the long-term projections remain a primary concern for the county. The recent report suggested that keeping the fund afloat requires an additional $100 million annually for the next two decades, potentially funded by new revenue sources like property or sales taxes.