Mar 18, 2025
Treasurer Mark Woods
A notice on the city of Dunkirk web site notes an abrupt closure of the Treasurer’s Office as of this afternoon around 2 p.m.
“IMPORTANT NOTICE: City Treasurer Office Closed until further notice,” the notice reads.
City officials have not indicated why the office is closed. However, there are reports that caution tape is on the door to the treasurer’s office and possible law officials involved.
Dunkirk’s fiscal crisis, which came to light nearly one year ago, continues to create havoc inside the walls of City Hall. Officials say morale is at an all-time low and grievances are being filed over job losses and other issues related to employment.
Mark Woods, city treasurer, has been elected to the position for more than two decades. He’s been on the hot seat as well with the state comptroller’s office and the mayor since the financial troubles came to light.
Last year, the city borrowed $16 million from New York state to pay its expenses.
In the coming weeks, city property owners will be on the hook for the mess. An 84% property tax hike that was approved in December will hit mailboxes later in the spring.
Dunkirk’s current budget is more than $28 million. Since 2016, it lost more than $4 million in revenue when the NRG Energy plant on the waterfront closed. That revenue was never replaced once state aid ran out in 2023.
According to the city web site, “the Treasurer’s Office is responsible for activities related to accounts receivable and cash management. Duties include collecting property tax payments, water payments, and funds transferred within the City’s portfolio.”
The office’s regular hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays when City Hall is open to the public.
The Dunkirk Common Council will take another look tonight at a loudspeaker permit for a well-known lakeside …
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