Herkimer, NY – The Village of Herkimer has issued a formal response to the New York State Comptroller’s Office regarding findings from a recent audit, outlining the substantial progress and decisive steps the current administration has taken to address financial mismanagement inherited from prior leadership.
Mayor Dana Sherry, who took office amidst widespread record-keeping failures and a backlog of financial reports, has led an aggressive effort to rebuild trust, restore transparency, and modernize the Village’s financial operations.
“The Village was left in a state of financial disarray,” said Mayor Sherry. “When I assumed office, key financial records were missing, reports had not been filed to the Comptroller’s for three years, and internal accountability was virtually nonexistent. Our team immediately began correcting these issues.”
Key Actions Taken by the Village:
Reconciliation of three years of backlogged bank statements from the previous administration is well underway and will be completed shortly.
Monthly financial reports and reconciliations are now completed in a timely manner.
The Bonadio Group, a professional accounting firm, has been brought in to assist with ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial reporting.
The Village expects to be fully current with its fiscal reports by the August 30, 2025, deadline.
A long-term plan is being developed to conduct annual audits of the Clerk Treasurer’s Office and strengthen internal controls.
New staff have been trained and placed in key positions to rebuild and maintain proper financial operations.
Mayor Sherry also emphasized the need for better qualifications and oversight for those in public office and municipal financial roles, stating:
“This situation cannot be repeated. We are implementing checks and standards to ensure that future leadership meets the responsibility the people of Herkimer deserve.”
Looking Ahead
The Village is calling on state agencies for greater support, especially regarding the financial burden of police and fire department contracts, which are difficult to renegotiate under current rules. Without adequate support and understanding from the State, villages like ours risk financial insolvency.
“This administration is committed to transparency, fiscal responsibility, and restoring faith in local government,” said Mayor Sherry. “The hard work is paying off, and we have finally moved Herkimer’s business practices forward into the 21st century.”
#TogetherWeRise
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