Holyoke City Council discusses restructuring finance department for improved accountability

Holyoke's Charter and Rules Committee convened on April 7, 2025, to discuss significant restructuring within the city's financial management framework, aiming to enhance efficiency and accountability. A key proposal is the establishment of a Chief Administrative Financial Officer (CAFO) role, which will oversee a newly consolidated finance department. This strategic move is designed to streamline operations, improve budget preparation, and maintain a capital improvement plan, ultimately fostering informed decision-making for city officials.

The proposed structure includes the appointment of a Director of Internal Audit, who will gain greater independence and authority to oversee financial accuracy and compliance. This role will be crucial in maintaining the general ledger, reviewing financial transactions, and managing a newly established fraud hotline, thereby enhancing oversight within the city's financial operations.

Additionally, the restructuring will involve the integration of the Treasurer and Collector roles, allowing for a more cohesive management of city finances. This change aims to clarify responsibilities, particularly in managing bank accounts and overseeing revenue collection, including parking permits and fines. The committee emphasized the need for a more organized approach to payroll processing, which will now fall under the Comptroller's purview, ensuring that financial operations are not only efficient but also compliant with state regulations.

The discussions also highlighted the necessity of appointing a Director of Technical Assistance to oversee IT functions, addressing the current lack of centralized management in this area. This role will ensure that the city’s technological needs are met proactively, improving overall service delivery.

As the committee moves forward, the proposed changes are expected to provide Holyoke with a more robust financial management system, enhancing accountability and operational efficiency. The next steps will involve further discussions and refinements to the proposed structure, with the goal of implementing these changes effectively in the near future.