State Comptroller DiNapoli Looks Back at 2023 |
I am proud of the work my office has done to safeguard taxpayer dollars and identify ways government can help create a better quality of life for New Yorkers. 2023 presented its share of challenges: an unpredictable economy, the impacts of climate change and major international conflicts.
But we are encouraged by positive developments—including a drop in unemployment and the continuing strength of our State Pension Fund. It is my pleasure to share some of our initiatives and accomplishments through my 2023 Year in Review.
Former Morley Fire Company Treasurer Ordered to Pay $50,000 for Theft of Public Funds
State Comptroller DiNapoli announced that the former treasurer of the Morley Volunteer Fire Co., Cindi Perkins, was ordered to pay $50,000 in restitution and sentenced to serve five years of probation for stealing from the fire company. Perkins, 58, previously pleaded guilty to grand larceny in the fourth degree in November 2023.
End of Continuous Medicaid Enrollment Requirement Poses Risks to State Financial Plan
With federal legislation ending continuous Medicaid coverage in March 2023, New York State began the process of redetermining eligibility for every enrolled individual. An analysis by State Comptroller DiNapoli found this “unwinding” may not meet projections in the Division of the Budget’s Mid-Year Update to the Enacted Budget Financial Plan, adding costs to the State budget.
Former Beekman Tax Collector Sentenced for Theft of Over $86,000
State Comptroller DiNapoli, Dutchess County District Attorney Anthony Parisi and the New York State Police announced that Jennifer Colucci, a former tax collector for the town of Beekman, was sentenced to pay full restitution of $88,821.40, five years’ probation, community service, and time served. Colucci served 209 days in jail, paid restitution in full and completed her community service.
State Contract and Payment Actions in November
In November, the Office of the State Comptroller approved 2,063 contracts for State agencies and public authorities valued at $32.5 billion and approved nearly 2 million payments worth more than $13.3 billion. The office rejected 189 contracts and related transactions valued at $401 million and nearly 1,100 payments valued at more than $38.6 million, primarily for mistakes, insufficient support for charges, and improper payments. More information on these contracts and payments is available at Open Book New York.
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