At least one city of Dunkirk resident opposes the abolishment of the treasurer position in city government. During a council meeting this month, Thomas Taylor defended Mark Woods — who currently holds the post — noting he is “probably one of the most honest people I’ve ever met, and non-judgmental.”

We believe that is a fair critique.

But we also know that to seek election for the office of treasurer in Dunkirk — a position that is rare elsewhere in New York state — the candidate’s education and background does not matter. That means an elected city treasurer can have no financial experience and hold the position.

That is how democracy works. Sometimes the best person for the job does not win.

That being said, our newspaper believes — based on the horrific fiscal condition of the city — there needs to be a major shake-up in City Hall. All signs point to it beginning with the money.

How can a municipality be $20 million in the red and have absolutely no warning? Say what you want about Fredonia, but the Village Board had an inkling that the 2024-25 fiscal year would not end well. It ultimately took out a loan for the potential $825,000 shortfall.

Dunkirk’s story in the summer of 2023 is much different. City leaders — and Common Council members — approved a $5.5 million loan due to what was called a “cash flow situation.”

Eight months later, the situation was financial ruin.

Dunkirk’s council, for all its previous missteps and poor oversight, is on the right path with its consideration of eliminating the treasurer. A public hearing on the potential referendum topic will be Wednesday.

City voters will likely have a say in November. Observing the current fiscal doom that has transpired, there is no question an overhaul is necessary.

Thomas Taylor criticized the idea of eliminating the treasurer position. “I’ve done a little research today…and all I can ascertain from it is, if you’re going to take a layer of protection, that’s dangerous,” he said.

“The bottom line of the whole thing is, I’ve had people say, ‘Well, you can win by only one vote,'” he continued. “Still, that’s the democratic way of doing things.”

Taylor said he has known Woods for years and called him “probably one of the most honest people I’ve ever met, and non-judgmental.”

Taylor wondered if the council would attempt to abolish more elected positions, such as the city assessor. He said Woods should be “applauded…not because I’m biased, but maybe I am.” The city’s challenging financial situation is not due to Woods, it’s blamed on department heads and overspending, Taylor concluded.

Councilman James Stoyle later noted to Taylor that “there has to be a referendum and you folks have to decide whether the treasurer stays or goes.”