Healthy investment returns last year will reduce pension costs for Marin County and the Novato Fire Protection District, saving $5 million and $300,000 respectively, while San Rafael will incur an additional $1 million cost. The Marin County Employees’ Retirement Association reported an 8.7% investment gain, surpassing the assumed 6.75%. Pension contribution rates decreased for all three entities, but San Rafael’s increased overall due to rising payroll costs. The funded ratio of the pension plan improved from 90.5% to 92.1%. Despite positive trends, calls for pension reform continue, emphasizing a shift to defined contribution plans.