DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) – Iowa’s pension fund for retired public employees is facing a long-term shortfall of nearly $5.7 billion and some officials say they are worried about the sustainability of the fund. The Des Moines Register says a consultant’s report issued Thursday says despite the concerns there are no immediate threats to members’ monthly pension checks. The Iowa Public Employees’ Retirement System has about 325,000 members.

State Treasurer Michael Fitzgerald, who serves on the fund’s investment board, says he is concerned about the funds sustainability and that the amount owed by taxpayers continues to grow. But Brad Hudson, a lobbyist for the Iowa State Education Association, says changes made by lawmakers last year are a step in the right direction. The changes include increased contributions combined with future benefit reductions.

The annual “Shop with the Sheriff” program will be held tomorrow (Saturday, Dec. 3rd), in Council Bluffs. Pottawattamie County Sheriff Jeff Danker says the 13th annual event being held at the Target Store in Council Bluffs, will benefit 28 children this year. The program is funded by donations from individuals and businesses from throughout Pott County and the surrounding areas.

Danker says the names of families selected to benefit from this year’s program were provided by the Iowa Department of Human Services. Each child will receive $175 to spend for their families. They’re encouraged to use most of the money for clothing, shoes and other necessities, but the purchase of toys is allowed. In addition, each family will receive a food basket.

About 45 employees and families of employees with the Sheriff’s Office volunteer their time to assist with the program. The doors to the Council Bluffs Target Store will open one-hour early Saturday, before the public is allowed in,  to offer the children the chance to shop for their families.

Members of the CAM Community School District’s Board of Education will hold a special meeting Monday evening, in Anita. During the 7-p.m. session in the Media Center at the CAM High School, the board will discuss matters pertaining to an Online Charter School. No action will be taken on the issue.