Mayor Jim Cecere has announced the formation of a Mayor’s Ad Hoc Committee on Finance, a short-term advisory group aimed at improving financial transparency and oversight for the City of Geneva.
The committee was formally announced during the City Council meeting on Jan. 7. According to the mayor’s office, the group will assist City Council in better understanding the city’s financial position and in carrying out its governance and fiduciary responsibilities. The committee is expected to begin work later this month and operate for about six months.
The Finance Ad Hoc Committee will review issues including short-term cash management, debt obligations, financial forecasting, and budget practices. One of its primary goals is to develop clear financial metrics that City Council can use for oversight and to support the annual budget process.
“This committee is about strengthening trust and understanding,” Cecere said during the council meeting. “Our goal is not to replace or interfere with the work of city staff, but to give City Council and the public clearer insight into how our finances work, where we are strong, and where we can improve.”
Councilor Chris Lavin said the committee will help council members better evaluate the city’s financial health and ask more informed questions during budget discussions.
The committee includes Charles Bauder, Gary Baxter, Cyril Smith Jr., Kam Wong, Councilor Chris Lavin, and Councilor Pat Grimaldi. City officials said members were selected for their experience in finance, public service, governance, and community leadership. Two City Council members are serving on the committee to maintain a direct connection to council oversight.
The committee will meet regularly and provide progress updates to the mayor and City Council, with a final report expected to include recommendations focused on financial clarity, long-term planning, and public accountability.
The City Clerk is coordinating the committee’s initial meeting, which is expected to take place at City Hall during the week of Jan. 19. Residents are encouraged to follow updates from the Office of the Mayor as the committee’s work moves forward.
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