Back to the Basics: The Fiscal Watchdog aka The Comptroller

We all know how important it is to manage your money, right? In Suffolk, there's a person in charge of keeping an eye on our County's money. Think of a Comptroller as a fiscal watchdog for the County. John M. Kennedy, Jr. is the current Suffolk County Comptroller serving his 3rd term.

Suffolk County has an annual budget of over $3.5 billion, and Comptroller is responsible for creating a budget to allocate the money. The salary of the Comptroller is funded through the county budget, which is supported by various sources of revenue, including property taxes, sales taxes, and fees. The office also plays a role in providing county management and stakeholders with financial information. They prepare reports that analyze the County's financial condition, identify any challenges or opportunities, and provide recommendations for addressing them. Decision-makers use this information to plan for the future and address areas where improvements can be made.

Suffolk County Comptroller John M. Kennedy, Jr.

How can one person handle such a monumental task? The Comptroller's office has various departments, such as accounting, audit, payroll, purchasing, information technology, real property tax services, risk management, and general services. These departments are responsible for maintaining financial records, conducting audits, processing payroll, purchasing goods and services, managing computer systems and networks, assessing property taxes, managing risks and insurance coverage, and providing support services for county departments.

Did you know the Comptroller's Office keeps an eye on the County's bank accounts every day, making sure that all the money is properly secured by authorized depositories? They also make sure that all cash transactions, like federal and state aid and sales tax wire deposits, are recorded accurately in the County's ledgers and databases.

Besides that, the Comptroller's Office manages trust and agency monies, such as bail, surplus court action, social services, mortgage tax, and community preservation funds. They handle all the debt service payments, limit funds for short-term debt, and track the cash balance for all capital projects. On top of that, they're also responsible for things like the County's tax lien sale and tax deed undertakings. They take care of the administration, billing, and record-keeping for properties covered by bankruptcy proceedings.

The Comptroller's office is also responsible for investigating any allegations of financial impropriety within the County. The Comptroller's Office has a hotline that residents can use to report any allegations of fraud, waste, or abuse related to county funds. They also have the authority to subpoena records and witnesses.

To see a dollar-for-dollar report, look at the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR), which provides a comprehensive overview of the County's finances. So why should all of this matter to us "regular folks"? We are facing unprecedented economic challenges here in the County, the state, and the nation. Knowing who to hold accountable for what and how can help us meet and conquer these challenges. To see a dollar-for-dollar report, look at the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR), which provides a comprehensive overview of the County's finances. For more info, visit the Comptroller's Office website at suffolkcountyny.gov/comptroller/Home or call (631) 853-5040 for general information. To report suspected fraud, waste, or abuse of county funds, call The Fraud Hotline at (631)853-5018.