Comptroller writing herself out of a job | News

GRAND RAPIDS (WZZM) - Saying that Grand Rapids is running a "century old financial structure in the 21st century," Grand Rapids Comptroller Donijo Robbins De Jonge is suggesting that her position be merged into an appointed position instead of an elected on.

Robbins De Jonge will propose the amendment to the city charter that would facilitate the change at next Tuesday's Committee of the Whole meeting of the City Commission.

Under the proposal, the Comptroller position would be merged with the Chief Financial Officer to create one position. The Comptroller would then be appointed instead of elected. 

In a press statement, Robbins De Jonge says, "The world of finance (accounting and budgeting) demands professional standards, ethics, and processes and there is no place for politics in the management of taxpayer money. You do not want a politician controlling the money; you want a professional who is certified by the the industry."

She also recommends that the person who would fill the new appointed position be required to hold credentials that she herself doesn't currently have. She acknowledges in the press statement that she is "writing herself out of a job."

"This is about good government and sound financial practices," said Robbins De Jonge. "This change is necessary now more than ever; it is what's best for the City."