Finance staff outlines package of new county financial policies, plans training

Warren County finance staff told the county Finance & Budget Committee they are assembling a comprehensive set of financial policies and will pair them with in-person training to make the rules operational.

"We're trying to absolutely make sure that we're in compliance with New York State controller and the GASB rules," Marilyn said, listing work on capital budgeting/bonding, encumbrances, investment and reserve-funding methodology and a breach-security notification flowchart. She said the committee is also drafting a one-page emergency flowchart so staff can follow procedures during incidents and that final policy documents are expected within the next month.

Committee members asked how the policies would be organized; Marilyn said the county will update a single risk-and-safety manual with separate finance sections and that Kimberly is leading the effort to consolidate the policies and develop in-person training. Marilyn thanked the committee for its patience and support.

The update emphasized compliance and usability: staff said the policies are being drafted to meet New York State Controller guidance and Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) expectations, and that IT staff (including Mike Coen) are helping design the breach-notification flowchart. The committee did not take a separate vote on the policy package at the meeting; staff said final versions will be circulated for review.