The city of Dunkirk Treasurer’s Office was closed for an investigation spurred by “discovery of questionable accounting practices,” Dunkirk Mayor Kate Wdowiasz said this week.

The mayor addressed the closure, which occurred earlier Tuesday, at a Common Council meeting. Calling it part of “an open and ongoing investigation,” she said the closure “was an action taken to preserve documents contained within that office.”

Wdowiasz said, “This action was set in motion (due) to the discovery of questionable accounting practices, which were brought to light through new policies, procedures, and enhanced oversight measures implemented by me to safeguard public funds.

“I am treating these irregularities with the utmost seriousness. To ensure a comprehensive and impartial investigation, I have engaged the office of the state comptroller and the (Chautauqua County) district attorney to conduct a full and thorough investigation of the matter.”

The mayor promised to “provide details as the investigation progresses, while respecting the need to maintain the integrity of the process. While I cannot disclose any additional information at this time, please know that this is just one instance where the need for new accounting practices and updated software is essential for maintaining accurate city records.”

The shutdown of Treasurer Mark Woods’ office came complete with caution tape on the door, and happened in concert with the Dunkirk Police Department’s execution of a grand jury subpoena.

Woods has been Dunkirk’s treasurer since the late 1990s. It’s an elected position and he faced no opposition in most election years.

Councilwoman Nancy Nichols questioned if Woods’ office should be the only target of investigation.

“I’m very surprised that it was just targeted at one office, there should be other (city) offices that should be targeted for an investigation as well. As a councilperson, I have the right to say that,” she said.

Nichols said of the treasurer’s office investigation, “I knew nothing of anything until I got a phone call (earlier in the day).”

Councilwomen Natalie Luczkowiak and Abby Zatorski had no public comments on the treasurer’s office investigation Tuesday, nor did Councilman-at-large Nick Weiser. Councilman James Stoyle missed the meeting.