Holyoke's Money Matters: A Fresh Look at City Finances

Holyoke is taking a big step to fix its money problems. The City Council has sent a plan to create a new finance department to a smaller group for review. This plan is all about making sure the city handles its money better and has the right people in charge. The state has been giving Holyoke advice on how to improve its financial systems. The goal is to make sure the city has good controls, clear rules, and the right people managing the money. Councilor Meg Magrath-Smith said they need to tweak some details before the plan goes to the ordinance committee. The mayor, Joshua Garcia, has been pushing for these changes. He wants to modernize the city's finances by fixing old problems, using new technology, and making sure everyone follows the rules. He also wants to add a new position called a chief administrative and financial officer to help with planning and decision-making.This isn't the first time the City Council has talked about these changes. Last October, they voted against the plan, but many council members still support it. Some people think the city should fix one problem at a time, like the treasurer's office, before making bigger changes. Holyoke has had trouble with its finances for a long time. The state has withheld millions in aid because the city didn't file important paperwork on time. But things are starting to look up. The state aid is flowing again, and the city is working hard to get its finances in order.