About the Board of Finance |
| Stamford is one of a small number of Connecticut municipalities that retains this unique feature of early New England political organization. Established as a check and balance on centralized government in colonial times, the present Board of Finance acts in the same capacity. The general duty of the Board is to review and determine the City's fiscal policies and to protect the financial well-being of both the City government and its taxpayers. |
Organization and Meetings |
Established and governed by the City of Stamford Charter, the Board of Finance has been authorized with specific powers and duties related to the fiscal policies of the City. The Board is composed of six members, each of whom hold office for a 4-year term. Board members are elected by Stamford voters in citywide elections for staggered terms- one half of the membership is elected at each biennial municipal election. The Board holds regular meetings on the second Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m., unless changed by resolution. Additionally, the Mayor or any two members may call a special meeting to handle urgent business in between regular meetings. Meetings are held in the Board of Finance Meeting Room on the 4th Floor of the Stamford Government Center. Meetings are open to the public and include a brief period of time for public comment on any issue on the meeting agenda. |
Committees |
| The Board of Finance has several committees to deal with special issues that warrant in-depth consideration. The committees are organized according to the type of business they take up. They consist of Audit, Education, Revaluation, Legal, Operations and Public Safety committees, which meet as necessary and on public notice. |
Chairperson |
Following each biennial election, the Board elects from its members a Chairperson. The Chairperson holds office until the first meeting in December which follows the municipal election. Should the Chairperson vacate their seat before the next election the Board will hold a special meeting to elect a new Chairperson. Michael Pollard currently serves as chairperson of the Board of Finance. John Luiso currently serves as Vice Chairman who serves in the Chair's absence. |