§ 62-139. Denial of benefits; hearing process; appeal to board of trustees.

(a)

Where a claim for benefits is denied by the retirement system, the claimant shall be notified in writing with the reasons for denial. Claim denials by the system shall be approved by the city clerk and treasurer.

(b)

Within 60 days of the date of mailing of the written denial, the claimant may appeal the denial, and request a hearing to be conducted by a hearing panel consisting of three members of the board of trustees, appointed by the full board.

(c)

Hearings shall be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Chapter IV of the Administrative Procedures Act, 1969 PA 306, MCL §§ 24.271—24.287.

(d)

At a hearing, the claimant may appear in person, by authorized agent or through counsel, and the retirement system may be represented by staff or through counsel.

(e)

Following issuance of a proposal for decision by the hearing panel and the opportunity to file exceptions, the full board of trustees shall review the proposal for decision and issue a final decision.

(Ord. No. 11-417, § 1.E, 1-3-2012)