More transparency in government spending? Hope you post that one up on the website! So, we already have a dozen other committee's ...so...why not another? Are these volunteer committee's or do they get paid, I wonder. Got some bad news for all you government spenders. You have to start with cutting government first and all the little programs that go along with it.
http://nwi.com/articles/2009/02/10/news ... 06d342.txtST. JOHN | St. John is turning to its residents to help report on the town's finances.
Councilman Mark Barenie, who was elected president of the council at the start of the year, is forming a finance committee. It will provide support and resources to the council, key staff and residents.
"We have over a dozen commissions and boards; why not a finance committee?" he said.
Barenie, a certified public accountant and finance professional, said that taxpayers are demanding more accountability and transparency, so they should get it.
Municipality accounting most often is based on the cash basis of accounting, but the committee will provide additional reports in the accrual method of accounting. That method is used in most businesses, because it provides a more accurate picture of when revenues are earned and expenses are incurred, Barenie said.
"It tends to simplify finances for the lay person and will add valuable information to make the best decisions possible," he said.
The committee also will establish and report on trends in expenses and revenues, he said.
"There has never been a more critical time to plan for the future with your finances and limited resources," he said.
Members of the finance committee also could assist in policy development for investments and reserves, as well as examining the feasibility of accepting electronic payments, Barenie said.
Municipal accounting is complex, because of the many funds, each of which has its own spending restrictions, he said.
"Throw in the fact that we are in a deep recession, and things get even more challenging," he said.
Enhanced financial reporting will help town staff and residents get a better understanding of St. John's financial workings, Barenie said.
Four people have applied for the committee so far. It will serve strictly in an advisory capacity to the Town Council, Town Manager Steve Kil said.
Applications are due by Feb. 20. A financial background is essential, and appointments will be based on experience, Kil said.
Applications are available at the clerk-treasurer's office or online at
http://www.stjohnin.com. Submit applications to the office of Town Manager Stephen Z. Kil, 10955 W. 93rd Ave., St. John, IN 46373.