Farragut moves to separate town recorder and treasurer roles; ordinance advances on first reading

The Board of Mayor and Aldermen on Sept. 11 approved on first reading Ordinance 25-17, which separates the historic duties of the town recorder and town treasurer and allows the town treasurer (finance director) to be appointed separately by majority board vote. Town Administrator David Smoak said the Municipal Technical Advisory Service recommended the separation because the combined duties had grown too large for one person. The proposed language clarifies that the treasurer/finance director will be responsible for budget preparation, debt and investment management, payroll oversight, purchasing and compliance with GAAP standards, and will be appointed by the board with day-to-day supervision by the town administrator. Smoak said the fiscal year budget contains funding for two positions and the town does not expect to need additional budget changes to implement the separation. Board members asked about salary ranges; Smoak said the budget includes sufficient funds for the two positions so no immediate amendment is expected. The board voted by roll call in favor (Alderman Burnette, Alderman Kane, Vice Mayor Meyer and Mayor Ron Williams: all yes). The ordinance will return for subsequent readings per the town—s normal ordinance process.