OSWEGO COUNTY – Oswego County Treasurer Kevin Gardner was recognized by the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) on May 6 for his work with the group’s affiliated financial association.
Elected as president of the New York State County Treasurers and Finance Officers Association (NYSCTFOA) last November, Gardner plays an integral role in facilitating training and communication among financial officers across the state.
“I’m excited and honored to have a leadership role in such a vital organization,” said Gardner. “NYSAC and NYSCTFOA set the bar high in promoting fiscal integrity and together, we work closely with Albany to provide guidance for association members. Being part of this body puts Oswego County on the map as an example of good financial stewardship.”
Statewide, NYSAC represents elected and appointed county officials. It partners with several, more specialized, associations, such as NYSCTFOA, that work on behalf of specific county roles to facilitate education, training and advocacy of ongoing issues.
NYSAC Executive Director Stephen Acquario offered encouragement from the organization.
“On behalf of the New York State Association of Counties, I am pleased to offer my congratulations and enthusiastic support to Oswego County Treasurer Kevin Gardner in his election to serve as president of the New York State Treasurers and Finance Officers Association, a move that benefits all members and advances our collective goals at the county level,” he said. “Kevin’s exemplary service to the people of Oswego County and dedication to fiscal responsibility therein will strengthen this important affiliate county association.”
Gardner has served Oswego County residents as treasurer since 2018, but his career in public service dates back more than two decades. Before his tenure as treasurer, Gardner represented District 13 on the Oswego County Legislature. He began his first term in January 2004 and in May 2013, Gardner was elected chairman of the Legislature, a position he held for over four years before leaving to serve as county treasurer.
Acquario commented on Gardner’s longevity, “With a distinguished career marked by integrity, innovation and a commitment to transparency, Kevin has consistently demonstrated his ability to navigate the complex financial landscape,” he said. “His leadership in Oswego County has resulted in improved financial practices, enhanced budget management and a strong focus on sustainable fiscal health. His proven track record and steadfast commitment to excellence ensure he will lead with distinction and bring significant positive change to our organization.”
As a member and as chairman of the Legislature, Gardner worked to stabilize property taxes and relieve the burden of state mandates on taxpayers, protect local services and enhance the overall quality of life for residents and visitors.
Some of his successful initiatives include a campaign to save James A. FitzPatrick Nuclear Power Plant from closure, a move which saved over 500 local jobs and $18 million in property tax revenue; as well as the creation of the Oswego County Anti-Poverty Task Force and Oswego County Land Bank; and supporting applications for national designations for both Fort Ontario State Historic Site and a Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary, the latter expected to be announced later this year.
“One of my biggest goals as a legislator was to not raise taxes for our residents,” Gardner said. “I’m proud that we were able to hold the line on that mission and put the county in a good financial position. As treasurer, I strive to represent Oswego County in the best way possible and work to make everything easier for our citizens – from responsible financial management to enhanced customer services, such as launching online processes.”
Now half-way through his term as president of NYSCTFOA, Gardner remains steadfast in fulfilling his responsibilities. These include serving on the joint Finance School committee and planning the association’s annual summer conference – two of the many opportunities for association members to learn more about financial processes and share the challenges and successes they’ve experienced with others in their field.
The annual County Finance School is coordinated by NYSAC, the New York State Comptroller’s Office and NYSCTFOA. For nearly 60 years, this highly successful program has attracted top financial specialists from across the state and today, it remains the only Continuing Professional Education (CPE)-accredited program on a focused field of study.
It provides association members education, training and discussion opportunities with experts in the field to address new and ongoing issues. This year, county financial officers met in Oneida for three days in early May to cover a variety of subjects in areas such as budget, finance, audit and property tax management.
Still to come, the annual summer conference will welcome over 120 financial officers from across the state to Oswego for presentations, educational workshops and networking. From Aug. 4 to 7, association members will discuss issues and tasks, from budgeting to efficient operations to ethical public service, and share insights about their experiences. Attendees will also have an opportunity to explore the Port City’s quaint historical downtown area and the county’s broader, rural reaches.