JP&L Committee approves retitled finance specialist role and shifts utility billing to Public Works

The JP&L Committee considered proposed revisions to the assistant to the finance director job description and approved the changes by voice vote. The assistant village manager said the revisions anticipate the current assistant’s retirement and are intended to improve recruitment and operational alignment.

Key changes the assistant village manager described: utility billing duties would move from Finance to the Department of Public Works so meter and billing questions could be handled by those closest to operations; the job title would change to 'finance specialist' to better reflect the role and attract candidates; and budgeting duties would be added so the position remains full-time after utility billing moves out. Staff said this structure is common in other municipalities.

The assistant village manager said DPW’s admin assistant and utility superintendent will provide primary capacity for billing, with training and overlap from the retiring assistant to support the transition. Staff noted the retirement is likely in September–October and said they will advertise immediately to try to create an overlap window for on-the-job training. They also said one cycle of outside assistance from CityWater (estimated at up to $4,000 in the memo but likely less depending on scope) could be used if needed during the transition.

A trustee moved to approve the proposed revisions; the motion was seconded and carried with no opposition. Staff will proceed with recruitment and will return with any contract or operational issues that require additional action.