Wasilla council approves $60,000 amendment to financial consulting contract while finance director search continues

At public hearing, the Wasilla City Council considered Ordinance serial number 2602, which would amend the FY2026 budget by appropriating $60,000 from the general fund to fund financial consulting services, and Resolution serial number 2605, which would amend the contract with Theodore Leonard for that amount.

Councilmember Crafton moved adoption and Councilmember Schmidt seconded. Crafton explained the request was to cover consulting services tied to a finance‑director vacancy and said he had reviewed invoices showing prior funds were used more quickly than anticipated. Jackie (administration) explained the original contract assumed a permanent finance director would be in place and that Leonard would provide part‑time assistance; because the city has not yet filled the finance director role, additional funding is required.

"The hope was that we would have had a permanent finance director prior to now," Jackie said, explaining the contract structure.

Several councilmembers, including Graham and Crafton, noted that the consulting rate is economical relative to hiring and that Leonard’s experience helps meet audit and reporting deadlines. Councilmember Crafton said he felt constrained but understood the operational need; other members proposed dividing duties between an administrator and technical consultant as a long‑term approach.

After discussion the council adopted the motion by voice vote. Administration said the funds will be available through the fiscal year and the recruitment for a permanent finance director is ongoing.

What was decided: Ordinance 2602 and Resolution 2605 were adopted to appropriate $60,000 for a contract amendment with Theodore Leonard; the council did not record a roll‑call vote in the transcript and the motion was adopted by voice vote.