Robert Alvarez

Technical Support Engineer I

KernBHRS - Tech Support

 For over 18 years, I have proudly served as a Kern County employee, bringing with me a strong background in technical support and customer service. I hold an Associate's Degree from Bakersfield College and a Bachelor's Degree from CSU Bakersfield, both in Business Administration. Throughout my career, I have been deeply committed to public service and ensuring that employees are represented fairly and responsibly. My experience serving on multiple boards has strengthened my understanding of governance, transparency, and accountability—qualities I believe are essential for a strong and effective Retirement Board. I am running because I believe every employee deserves confidence that their retirement system is managed with integrity, prudence, and a long-term vision for financial security. I am dedicated to safeguarding the interests of our members, advocating for sound investment strategies, and ensuring that decisions are made in the best interest of both current and future retirees. I would be honored to have your support.

Rocio Mosqueda

Human Resources Analyst

CAO-Human Resources

 I have proudly served Kern County for over 19 years and currently work as a Human Resources Analyst in the County's HR Department. My primary focus is talent recruitment—an essential first step in building a strong, capable workforce that meets the need of our community.

Previously, I spent 17 years as the Administrative Assistant to the Treasurer-Tax Collector. During that time, I also served as the County's Deferred Compensation Plan Administrator. In that role, I worked closely with the plan's recordkeeper and participants, gaining in-depth experience in plan administration, participant services, and compliance. This hands-on involvement gave me a solid foundation in the daily operations and overall management of the Deferred Compensation Plans.

My service on the Deferred Compensation Advisory Committee further enhanced my understanding of plan governance, fiduciary responsibility, and the complexities of retirement planning. This experience has well prepared me for the responsibilities of serving on the KCERA Board.

I hold a B.S. in Business Administration - Finance, from California State University, Bakersfield. Outside of work, I enjoy glamping with my family. It's a great way to unwind and recharge, allowing me to stay grounded and focused on serving my colleagues and the broader Kern County community.

Katelyn Zenger

I started my career with Kern County in 2010 as an Office Service Technician. From the start, I have been committed to advocating for fairness and equity in the workplace. I am a Tier 2 Retirement (only 1.62% credit per year compared to Tier 1 at 3%) plan member, which means I have a long career ahead and a personal stake in the strength and stability of our retirement system.

As your representative on the KCERA Board, I will bring dedication, integrity, and vigilance to the responsibility of protecting our collective future. Every dollar in our retirement fund represents the hard work and commitment of county employees. I will work to ensure that those dollars are invested wisely, managed responsibly, and safeguarded for the benefit of all members.

This election is an opportunity to make your voice heard. Your vote matters, and I encourage you to take part in shaping the leadership of our retirement association. If elected, I promise to make your trust count by putting employees first and making decisions that protect the retirement security we have earned together.

Vote for me: for fairness, accountability, and our future.

These statements have been prepared by the candidates running for the KCERA Board of Retirement. Information contained in the Candidate Statement is the responsibility of and printed as received from the candidate.

Jeanine Adams

Retired - County of Kern

Assessor’s Office

As KCERA Trustee Seat #3 from 2021 - 2023, I had the opportunity to draw on my career experience and training to advocate for the fair treatment of all KCERA members. In addition to my KCERA Board experience, I have 10 years public sector experience as well as 20+ years in the private financial services sector including NASD Series 7 licensed register representative; branch manager for second largest savings bank in California; administrative manager of the Bakersfield office of an international commercial real estate company and chief operations manager for a local start up commercial real estate organization.

 While working at the Kern Assessor's Office, I was an Appraiser II. Additionally, I hold an Organizational Management Bachelor of Science degree from the University of La Verne, complimenting my hands on human resources experience.

Our KCERA retirement benefits are foundational for retirement with dignity. I am concerned about the cost, return on investment and overall viability of the retirement benefits for all KCERA members. Prudent management of our KCERA retirement investments is critical so that KCERA members receive the benefits they were promised.

 VOTE Jeanine - YOUR PENSION / YOUR VOICE

Jeff Frapwell

Assistant County Administrative Officer - Retired

County Administrative Office

 Serving on the KCERA Board is a responsibility that requires not only experience and expertise, but also a strong fiduciary commitment to the well-being of all members. The role demands commitment, transparency, and courage to make prudent decisions that safeguard the future of Kern County's employees. It is crucial to have Board members who possess both financial acumen and unwavering integrity.

My decision to run for the 8th Member position representing my fellow retirees, comes from a deep respect for the trust that KCERA members place in their Board. I understand that retirement security is not just a policy issue, but a promise made to those who have dedicated a large part of their lives to public service. The assets managed by KCERA represent decades of labor, sacrifice, and hope for a stable retirement. It is imperative that these resources are managed responsibly and with foresight.

In seeking your support, I offer a 43-year track record in county service, including previously serving six years on the KCERA Board representing active General members, and a commitment to open communication. I will work to ensure our collective retiree voice is heard and decisions reflect the best interests of our members.

Gail B. Lancaster

Retired

I am running for the 8th Member Retiree Seat on the KCERA Board. I am a retired librarian with a diverse background having worked in a law school, the First Circuit Court of Appeals, and an art college. I have lived in Kern County since 1999 when I came to work for the Kern County Library where I managed branch libraries, supervised the Beale Reference Desk, and wrote grants to enhance the adult nonfiction collection. Beginning in 2020 Supervisor Mike Maggard appointed me to the Kern County Aging and Adult Services IHSS Advisory Committee. Serving on the IHSS Advisory Committee has given me a deeper understanding of the budgetary complexities of funding for these programs. In addition, I am a member of CARA, California Alliance for Retired Americans, an organization that tracks and sponsors legislation effecting seniors and the disabled. If elected as your representative I will bring an open mind and willingness to learn. There will be a learning curve but I know that critical thinking is an important aspect of learning. I believe these experiences will enhance my ability to represent Kern County retirees.

These statements have been prepared by the candidates running for the KCERA Board of Retirement. Information contained in the Candidate Statement is the responsibility of and printed as received from the candidate.

 Information will be mailed/emailed to relevant members*, sent to KCERA plan sponsors, posted at KCERA, and online.

To pursue election to a seat on the Board of Retirement, qualified applicants* must submit required nomination documents. KCERA Board Election Information Packets are available to download here or pick up at KCERA's office soon.

If an incumbent trustee fails to meet filing requirements, any other qualified applicant can submit required nomination documents by this deadline to pursue election.

 If only one member has met the filing requirements, no election shall be held, and that person will be appointed in lieu of election.

Candidate eligibility certified and official candidate list posted at KCERA and published online

A qualified applicant* may declare candidacy as a write-in candidate by meeting filing requirements.

 Ballots mailed/emailed to eligible KCERA members*.

Mail-in and electronic ballots must be received by 11:59 p.m.

 Any person may observe the ballot count at the KCERA Office.

Election results certified to the Board of Retirement will be posted at KCERA and published online at www.kcera.org/board-elections.