Aisha Pickett: City Treasurer candidate questionnaire

The Harvey treasurer plays a key role in government. They keep track of the city’s finances and work to ensure that the city is in sound financial health.

Ahead of the April 4 election, we asked both treasurer candidates about transparency, making the budget process more efficient, and more.

Here’s how they sounded off.

Questions were sent to candidates via email and responses have not been edited by newsroom staff. Answers have been posted as received.

Why are you running for city treasurer, and what is your overall vision for this role?

I am running for treasurer because I feel that I can be a catalyst for change for the better. Even if it is a small change. My vision was and still is to bring transparency of the City of Harvey’s financial dealings; therefore, helping to restore the residents’ trust in our government.

The treasurer cannot vote on ordinances but plays a vital role in the city’s government. What do you believe is the most critical duty of the treasurer, and why?

I believe the most critical duty is to be an overseer of the city’s finances. It is important in any business to have a system of check and balance in place. While the finance department’s staff deals with the day to day operations, the treasurer should be able to see the entire financial picture and relay it to the residents.

What role, if any, should the treasurer’s office play in supporting the local economy?

The treasurer should a financial liason between the government and the residents/businesses. It is important that both parties understand how they affect each other. For example, property taxes are a major part of the funding of services provided by the city government. In addition, if the city government increases the property taxes levied it can create a financial burden on the residents/businesses.

The treasurer’s office tends to be opaque to residents. How will you, as treasurer, work to make the treasurer’s office more transparent and responsive to residents’ concerns?

As the current treasurer, it has always been a priority for me to give the monthly Treasurer’s Reports. I will continue to push for the monthly Treasurer’s reports to be submitted regularly. In addition, I would like to implement a finance department page on the city’s website. This would include various reports like the monthly and annual reports, annual audits, the annual appropriations/budgets etc. This will allow the residents to have access to financial information at their convenience.

What are ways you will collaborate with other city officials to make Harvey’s budget process more efficient and participatory with residents?

Prayerfully, I would like to collaborate by improving communication within the finance department, department heads, committees, and with the residents. I will continue to encourage committee meetings that allow the residents more freedom to speak with city officials and staff regarding their concerns and desires.

Scenario:

A young Thornton high schooler is doing a project for their government class. They’re required to interview a local government official. They contact the treasurer’s office to learn more about what the job entails. Explain the treasurer’s responsibilities to this high school student.

Being the treasurer is a public service position and most of the treasurer’s responsibilities are carried out behind the scenes. They include, but are not limited to:

*Oversight of the city’s finances (books, bank accounts, investments, etc.)

*Monthly and annual Treasurer’s Reports

*Listen to and inform the residents

*Seek ways to improve the city’s budget (spending and revenue)

*Collaborate with other city officials and staff

Describe your leadership style.

My leadership style is rooted in simplicity and efficiency. I grew up being told to “work smart, not hard” and to always do things to the best of my ability. Therefore, I try to simplify and/or streamline processes so that everyone can understand their role and confidently complete their duties. I am always open to suggestions and ideas from individuals at any and every level.

If elected, would you commit to quarterly in-person, on-the-record, recorded interviews with the Harvey World Herald?

If re-elected, I would be open to consider interviews upon request.