The Saginaw Finance Unit serves as the financial backbone for the city of Saginaw, Michigan. It’s a multifaceted department responsible for managing, safeguarding, and accurately reporting all financial activities of the city government. The unit’s primary objective is to ensure fiscal responsibility, transparency, and compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
One of the core functions of the Saginaw Finance Unit is budgeting. They play a crucial role in developing and monitoring the annual city budget. This involves working closely with all city departments to understand their budgetary needs, analyzing revenue projections, and allocating resources effectively. The budgeting process is iterative, requiring careful consideration of competing priorities and the long-term financial health of the city.
Another key area of responsibility is accounting and financial reporting. The unit is responsible for maintaining accurate and up-to-date financial records, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general ledger accounting. They prepare comprehensive financial reports, adhering to Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) principles, which provide a clear picture of the city’s financial performance and position. These reports are essential for transparency and accountability to the citizens of Saginaw and external stakeholders like bondholders and grant providers.
The Saginaw Finance Unit also manages the city’s investments. They are tasked with maximizing returns on available funds while adhering to strict investment policies designed to protect taxpayer dollars. This involves carefully selecting investment vehicles, monitoring market trends, and ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
Revenue collection is another vital function. The unit is responsible for collecting taxes, fees, and other revenues due to the city. This includes property taxes, income taxes, and various licenses and permits. Efficient revenue collection is critical for funding essential city services like public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community programs.
Furthermore, the Saginaw Finance Unit plays a key role in internal controls. They implement and maintain internal control systems to safeguard city assets, prevent fraud, and ensure the accuracy of financial information. This includes establishing policies and procedures, conducting regular audits, and monitoring compliance with established guidelines.
In summary, the Saginaw Finance Unit is an essential department responsible for the sound financial management of the city. Through budgeting, accounting, investment management, revenue collection, and internal controls, they strive to ensure the financial stability and long-term prosperity of Saginaw.