JoAnne Kiernan: Candidate for Commissioner of Finance
I am JoAnne Kiernan, candidate for Commissioner of Finance for Saratoga Springs. I have lived in Saratoga Springs for 18 years with my husband, Todd and my two sons. I have served as Treasurer of Watersedge/Woodlands HOA; Caroline Street School PTSO and, as a Board Member and race organizer for Kelly’s Angels. Recently, I finished serving nine years on the Saratoga Springs City School District Board of Education and served on the finance committee for all nine years, as well as other various committees.
As a CPA for over 26 years, I have worked with large and small businesses creating and managing budgets as well as providing financial advice and accounting services. With my practical experience and knowledge I will be able to help Saratoga Springs recover from the pandemic stronger than ever. I will work toward establishing a plan for future unexpected emergencies. Our city must always be as properly prepared as possible. It is my commitment to the taxpayers of this beautiful city, to keep our taxes low without cutting services to residents. I will look to reduce expenses across every department. I will advocate for the city at the county, state, and federal levels.
From my work on the school board I have learned we have more in common than differences when it comes to good governance and finances. I want to work with the citizens of Saratoga and continue to build on all that we have in common. So much can be accomplished with respectful dialogue and active listening. We must always stay focused on the issues and come together for the better of our community, instead of focusing on who is right or wrong. We must meet people where they are and work towards solutions for all residents.
Small businesses are the cornerstone of our vibrant downtown. I will work with business owners, community leaders and all stakeholders to ensure we stay economically strong and continue to grow, while also taking steps to preserve and protect our beautiful Saratoga greenbelt. There has been great work done by the Climate Smart Task Force and I would continue to support and advance this work.
When elected, I will be engaged, serve with integrity and work to keep the city strong, healthy, successful and safe. I am the only candidate with the qualifications, competency and experience to get our beautiful city through these difficult times. If I am fortunate enough to serve as our next Commissioner of Finance, I will always put our city’s best interests above politics. We should always have leaders who are willing to work with others. We need to accomplish much so that Saratoga Springs can continue to thrive. We are presented with some challenging times ahead of us and we all must do what is best for Saratoga Springs. That is the truest definition of being a Public Servant—Service Before Self, and that is how I will lead as your Commissioner of Finance. Contact – joanne@joannekiernanforfinance.com