The Town Council took major steps Tuesday to restore financial integrity to the Town’s budget and financial statements.  During a public work session to discuss the 2007 budget, the council directed Town Comptroller Jim Heslop to fully account for the $1.2 million received in rent for the WestHelp property in the budget.  The council instructed that these funds should be placed into the town wide (A) budget.

The council has relied upon the town’s professionals, including its chief financial officer and its independent auditing firm, to conduct business in accordance with the law.  Last month the town comptroller brought to our attention some problems in the accounting of rent received for the WestHelp property.  When the supervisor presented his budget proposal earlier this month those problems had not been addressed.

These issues will be corrected before the council approves the 2007 budget.

Councilwoman Eddie Mae Barnes

Councilman Steve Bass

Councilwoman Diana Juettner

Councilman Francis Sheehan