Dunkirk council postpones vote on Local Law No. 3 after residents demand more detail on new comptroller role

The Common Council opened a public hearing May 5 on Local Law No. 3 of 2026, a proposed amendment to the city charter to establish a combined city clerk‑treasurer and city comptroller position. Multiple residents asked for clearer information about how the new role would be funded, how it would be recruited, whether it would be a civil‑service post and what checks and balances would be in place if an elected office is replaced by an appointed official.

"Where is the money gonna come from after the first two years? Are we gonna be raising more taxes?" asked Nancy Nichols of 212 Lincoln Avenue, who urged council to consider taxpayers ‘‘as a whole’’ when weighing the change. Patricia Shandsons (406 Hoyt Street) pressed for a public job description, clarity on civil‑service status and a transparent hiring process, warning that replacing an elected role with an appointed one requires built‑in accountability.

After the public hearing concluded, Council member Terrain moved — and Council member Civeletto seconded — a motion to postpone consideration of Local Law No. 3 to the council's May 19 meeting to allow additional review and community input. The motion passed on roll call and the measure was tabled. The council indicated the postponement would permit staff to provide more detailed information on job duties, compensation, funding sources and oversight mechanisms before any formal vote.