At a recent Nassau Suffolk Water Commissioners’ Association (NSWCA) Special Training Session hosted by Westbury Water District Commissioners Vincent Abbatiello, Kenneth O. Jones and William C. Olson, Kathleen Cannon, CPA and Business Manager of the Jericho Water District addressed the assemblage on the topic of “Fiscal Responsibilities of Commissioners & The Budget Process”.

Ms. Cannon’s incisive presentation included sections on the New York State Tax Cap and New York State Property Tax Freeze’s current law regarding government efficiency plans. Topics presented in detail were the key fiscal responsibilities of the Commissioners including developing and maintaining Water District policies & procedures, monitoring fiscal operations, conducting internal audits and developing an annual budget.

“Budget development is a serious process that requires meticulous attention to detail.” Ms. Cannon commented. “It requires a team effort that should be led by a Budget Officer with the ultimate responsibility of setting a realistic, structurally balanced budget on the Commissioners. Water Districts are required to submit an Annual Budget for approval from the Town in which they are located.”

NSWCA President Thomas P. Hand commented, “This is the latest in our series of Continuing Education and Training. It was particularly apropos because it helped prepare the Commissioners, Superintendents and Business Managers for their budget processes. Ms. Cannon’s ability to articulate the intricacies of each topic was greatly appreciated by all in attendance.”

Kathleen Cannon is a graduate of St. John’s University and also received her CPA license from the State of New York in 1993. Formerly the Comptroller at the Town of Huntington, Kathleen is currently the Business Manager at the Jericho Water District.