Dunkirk mayor says treasurer’s office under investigation, state controller and district attorney engaged

Mayor Dobias said the city has opened a formal investigation into the city treasurer’s office and has engaged the office of the state controller and the district attorney to conduct a “thorough and full investigation.” The mayor said the office was closed to preserve documents after “questionable accounting practices” surfaced.

The move followed internal reviews and new oversight measures the mayor said she had implemented. “This measure today to close the city treasurer's office was an action taken to preserve documents contained within that office,” Dobias said during the March 18 Common Council meeting. She said the irregularities were being treated “with the utmost seriousness” and that she could not provide additional details while the investigation is ongoing.

The mayor said the episode underscored the city’s need for new accounting practices and updated software to safeguard public funds. She said she is “dedicated to ensuring all steps are being taken to prevent any further reoccurrences” and that the administration will provide updates as the investigation proceeds while “respecting the need to maintain the integrity of the process.”

The mayor also used her remarks to pass along two operational reminders: alternate-side parking will go to a weekly schedule starting March 30, 2025; and the council acknowledged the retirement of Police Officer Carlos Troje after 22 years of service.

As of the meeting, the council took no formal vote related to personnel action; the mayor reported that outside agencies were now involved in the inquiry and that no further information could be disclosed while the investigations continue.

The council then proceeded with its agenda, including routine permits, claims referrals and several resolutions.