The Problem
The Town of Newburgh has a history of questionable fiscal practices. Adverse audit opinions, weak internal controls, and a lack of long-term planning have left residents paying more and getting less. Without a clear financial roadmap, the town lurches from one budget cycle to the next, reacting to crises instead of preventing them.
Stephen's Plan
Full operational and financial review in the first 100 days. Before making promises, Stephen will get an honest picture of where the town stands - every account, every contract, every obligation.
Implement stronger fiscal controls. Modern budgeting practices, regular independent audits, and clear accountability for every department. No more rubber-stamping expenditures.
Prioritize core services. Roads, water, public safety - the basics that residents depend on every day should be funded first, not treated as afterthoughts.
Make every tax dollar traceable. Residents will be able to see exactly where their money goes through an online budget dashboard updated in real time.
Why It Matters
Stephen isn't new to this fight. As a prior candidate for Supervisor, he analyzed an adverse audit opinion that raised serious questions about the town's finances and called out practices that eroded public trust. With a Master's degree in Nonprofit Management - including advanced training in public finance, budgeting, and managerial decision-making - he has the expertise to turn things around.