The Value of a Haycock Township Financial Advisory Board

I strongly support and if elected, will encourage my fellow Board members to appoint a group of well qualified taxpayers to serve an a Haycock Township Financial Advisory Board.

As has been proven by many other municipalities, Haycock township can also greatly benefit from the input of its qualified and experienced residents, in matters involving budgeting, financing, long term financial planning, investments, and many insurance matters.

Establishing a Financial Advisory Board comprised of qualified taxpayers can help close the gap between our local government and the community it serves.

A resident-led Financial Advisory Board can be critical in promoting transparency, accountability, and effective financial management in our community.

When local citizens participate in first line financial decision-making community involvement fosters trust, ownership, citizen understanding and responsibility.

When residents feel their opinions matter, they are more likely to engage in other civic duties. According to a study by the Community Engagement Institute, municipalities with active community boards saw a 30% increase in residents volunteering for other local initiatives.

One major benefit of a resident-led Financial Advisory Board is increased transparency regarding how taxpayer money is being managed.

This board can serve as an important communication bridge between Haycock officials and township residents. By explaining complex financial strategies in simple terms, the board helps demystify budget allocations, expenditures, finances, and long term fiscal planning. This increases trust in local government because residents can see exactly how their tax dollars are being spent.

Diverse Perspectives on Financial Strategies

A diverse group of residents leads to a wider range of ideas. Different backgrounds and experiences enrich discussions about financial strategy. For example, a retired accountant on the board might highlight cost-saving initiatives, while a small business owner could advocate for funding that supports local economic development, and experienced Attorney could help avoid pitfalls, and a resident knowledgeable in medical, and liability insurances can help us ensure sufficient insurance coverages, at the lowest possible costs.

A Haycock Financial Advisory Board could:

1. Develop a comprehensive understanding of the current budget deficit as has been reported, and the causation, followed by the creation of a 3-5 year recovery plan to overcome the current deficit, and help prevent a future recurrence.

   
   

2. Evaluate the finances of the Haycock Community Center and help develop a long term plan for financial independence while working with all interested and vested parties owning, leasing, and using the building, including all taxpayers.

   
   

3. Become a community resource to the Township, Historical Society, or Fire Company, when requested, and as budgeting and finance issues are being considered, or when insurance policy issues are of concern or being considered.

   
   

4. Could serve to meet with our elected or appointed auditors when their preliminary report is being developed, making suggestions for improvement or greater clarity, before the final annual audit report is being completed and presented to the Supervisors and public.

5. Could serve to assist the township in preparing a proper RFP when insurance policy proposals are being solicited, and vetted.

A well-structured Financial Advisory Board can provide strategic guidance for long-term financial planning for major road projects and equipment purchases. The Advisory Board could help develop a long term capital plan for maintenance and repairs to all township owed building and facilities.

If elected, I will advocate such a Board.

Haycock Township has many intelligent and experienced residents that could become a very valuable asset.