Where Public Finance Works
The financial health of every community depends on public finance leaders. DebtBook's podcast sheds light on the finance departments of states, cities, municipalities, and universities, who are powering their organizations forward. Tune in to hear stories from tireless public finance leaders who enable their communities to thrive through complex treasury management, budgeting challenges, regulatory changes, financial planning, accounting, and more. DebtBook Disclaimer: https://hubs.la/Q02bT2Yw0
info_outline
Leadership in Chicago’s Public Transit Operations with Kevin Bueso
10/02/2024
Leadership in Chicago’s Public Transit Operations with Kevin Bueso
In this episode of Where Public Finance Works, we meet Kevin Bueso, Chief Financial Officer at the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) of Northeastern Illinois. Kevin shares his inspiring journey from Honduras to leading finance operations at one of the country’s largest transit oversight agencies. Join host as he explores Kevin’s strategic initiatives to address the challenges of post-pandemic public transit, the ongoing fiscal cliff, and the role of technology in transforming operations. Kevin discusses the unique challenges the RTA faces as an oversight and funding agency for Chicago’s vast transit system, and how coordination between the RTA and its sister agencies—CTA, Metra, and Pace—is essential for managing public transit services across the metropolitan area. Kevin also shares his approach to future-proofing his team, encouraging staff to continuously question their methods and think strategically about their roles. His leadership balances innovation with operational efficiency, offering valuable lessons for anyone in public finance, transportation, or leadership. Featured Guest is the Chief Financial Officer and Senior Deputy Executive Director of Finance, Innovation, and Technology at the Kevin is responsible for overseeing the financial strategies and operations of the RTA, providing crucial leadership at a pivotal moment for the region’s transit system. His areas of focus include financial planning, budgeting, treasury operations, IT strategy, and capital project management. Before joining the RTA in 2023, Kevin served as Chief Financial Officer for McHenry County, where he contributed his expertise in strategic financial management, change management, and succession planning. His extensive background in local government finance spans roles such as Finance Director for the Village of Round Lake Beach and Assistant Director of Finance for the City of Waukegan, where he gained deep experience in fiscal oversight, budget development, and internal controls. Kevin holds both a Bachelor’s and an MBA in Accounting & Finance from Roosevelt University. He is actively engaged with professional associations and was instrumental in establishing the Illinois Chapter of the Local Government Hispanic Network (LGHN). Fluent in Spanish and originally from Honduras, Kevin brings a unique and global perspective to his work in public finance. Episode Resources
/episode/index/show/a6d5933f-8050-4341-bc0a-1b9158b1ae28/id/33302027
info_outline
Managing Growth and Public Trust in Local Government with Melissa Moore
09/10/2024
Managing Growth and Public Trust in Local Government with Melissa Moore
Join us for an insightful episode of Where Public Finance Works, featuring Melissa Moore, the Finance Director for Buncombe County, North Carolina. Host explores Melissa’s unique transition from the private sector to public finance, sharing how her analytical background and experience in financial planning have driven meaningful change in local government. Melissa discusses her journey from Texas to North Carolina, offering a behind-the-scenes look at her strategic approach to financial planning and cash flow management. She explains how Buncombe County is handling growth and public trust challenges, and how her team focuses on maximizing taxpayer dollars through smart cash investments and long-term financial forecasting. This episode sheds light on the critical role of finance in local government, from managing bond proceeds to planning for future capital projects. Featured Guest is the Finance Director for Buncombe County Government, a role she has held since September 2023. With over 15 years of experience in public finance and local government, Melissa has developed expertise in managing government bonds, overseeing budgetary processes, and fostering financial strategies for municipalities. Before joining Buncombe County, Melissa served as the Director of Finance for the City of Pflugerville, Texas, where she led financial operations for over two years. Her career also includes positions such as Assistant Director of Finance for the City of San Marcos, Texas, and Finance Program Manager at CPS Energy, one of the largest municipally-owned utilities in the U.S. Melissa's well-rounded experience in financial planning, debt management, and government budgeting positions her as a leading voice in public finance, ensuring that government resources are allocated effectively to benefit the community. Episode Resources
/episode/index/show/a6d5933f-8050-4341-bc0a-1b9158b1ae28/id/32944582
info_outline
Innovating Treasury Operations in Higher Education: Lessons from Denise Laussade
08/27/2024
Innovating Treasury Operations in Higher Education: Lessons from Denise Laussade
In this episode of Where Public Finance Works, we explore the remarkable career of Denise Laussade, a distinguished leader in university treasury operations with roles at both Purdue University and Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). Join host as he uncovers the deep-seated love for dance and music that has been a guiding force in Denise’s life. These artistic passions have seamlessly intertwined with her career in finance, providing a unique perspective. Denise’s professional journey spans different industries, from futures trading in oil, gold, and silver at Texaco to handling a Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the retail and manufacturing sectors. During her 13 years at Purdue University, Denise served as Director of Treasury Operations, where she oversaw cash management, investment partnerships, and debt issuance. Her tenure there deepened her expertise in municipal debt and compliance, while she played a vital role in maintaining the University’s financial health by freezing tuition rates and optimizing financial strategies. Denise’s journey then led her to VCU, where she embraced the role of Treasurer. She shares insights into the unique challenges of managing finances in a smaller, more constrained environment, including the innovative establishment of a quasi-endowment to strengthen VCU’s financial stability. Throughout the episode, Denise highlights the importance of innovation, imagination, and adaptability in the world of finance. Featured Guest is a finance professional with a distinguished career in higher education treasury operations. Her most recent role was as Treasurer at Virginia Commonwealth University, where she was responsible for managing debt, investments, cash, and collections for a university serving over 30,000 students. Her tenure at VCU was marked by her strategic approach to financial management, which included the innovative use of quasi-endowments to bolster VCU's financial stability. Prior to VCU, Denise spent nearly 15 years at Purdue University, where she served as the Senior Director of Treasury Operations. At Purdue, she oversaw a broad spectrum of treasury functions, including daily cash management, banking relationships, and credit card services. In addition to her roles in higher education, Denise has held leadership positions at Darden Restaurants and Dan River Inc., where she honed her skills in corporate finance and strategic planning. Her diverse background and commitment to continuous improvement have made her a respected leader and mentor in the finance community. Episode Resources:
/episode/index/show/a6d5933f-8050-4341-bc0a-1b9158b1ae28/id/32682527
info_outline
Shaping a Safer Community: Strategic Public Safety Enhancements with Brian Pahle
08/14/2024
Shaping a Safer Community: Strategic Public Safety Enhancements with Brian Pahle
In this episode of Where Public Finance Works, we explore the community of Hendersonville, NC alongside Brian Pahle, Assistant City Manager. Join host as he engages Brian in a thought-provoking discussion about his impact on public safety and fiscal management, along with his leadership in transforming the city's administrative landscape. Brian shares his ascent through the ranks from a budget intern to his current role, where he focused on overhauling the city’s public safety protocols. His story includes strategic enhancements in fire services, emergency response, and infrastructure to support a safer community. This episode provides a window into how these initiatives not only improve safety but also integrate with economic and community development. Listeners will gain an inside view of the challenges and triumphs in managing a city known for high-quality service delivery and strategic financial oversight. Discover how Brian and his team’s innovative approach has significantly boosted public safety measures, making Hendersonville a model of effective local governance. Featured Guest serves as the Assistant City Manager of Hendersonville, North Carolina, a role he has held since August 2017. Brian began his professional journey after earning a master's degree in Public Administration from Appalachian State University. His career in Hendersonville began as a Budget & Management Analyst, progressing to Budget & Evaluation Director before assuming his current executive leadership position. In addition to his city roles, Brian has played a significant part in shaping budgetary practices across North Carolina. His leadership in the North Carolina Local Government Budget Association is marked by his tenure as President and his progression through various executive positions, reflecting his deep commitment to excellence and innovation in governmental budgeting. Brian's expertise extends into effective municipal management, budget planning, and fostering community engagement. Episode Resources:
/episode/index/show/a6d5933f-8050-4341-bc0a-1b9158b1ae28/id/32542777
info_outline
The Strategic Role of Treasury within Utility Authorities with Randall Barnes
07/10/2024
The Strategic Role of Treasury within Utility Authorities with Randall Barnes
In this episode of Where Public Finance Works, we explore the dynamic operations at JEA with , the Treasurer who has been steering the financial helm since August 2022. Randall's journey from a small town in East Tennessee to managing billions in Jacksonville’s public utilities is a testament to his dedication and expertise in the public finance sector. Host breaks down Randall’s role, from overseeing debt management and cash forecasting to maintaining strong relationships with rating agencies. Randall shares insights into JEA’s financial strategies, including the complexities of electricity generation and distribution, hedging gas prices, and ensuring operational efficiency. He speaks on the importance of simplicity in financial planning and the critical role of process improvements and staff education in achieving long-term strategic goals. Listeners will gain an understanding of how JEA operates as a community-owned utility, balancing the need to provide reliable and affordable services while supporting economic growth in Jacksonville. Randall also highlights the significant efforts made during the COVID-19 pandemic to support the local community, including innovative financial programs and robust disaster preparedness plans for hurricane season. Join us for an inside look at how Randall and his team at JEA navigate the challenges of public finance, making a meaningful impact on the community they serve. Featured Guest is the Treasurer at JEA. His extensive career began with an MBA in Management Information Systems and a B.S. in Marketing from Tennessee Technological University. Randall’s career includes over 16 years at the Tennessee Valley Authority, where he held positions such as Senior Program Manager for Corporate Investments and Finance, and Senior Securities Analyst. In 2015, he joined the City of Jacksonville as Senior Debt Manager and later advanced to Assistant Treasurer and Treasurer. Since August 2022, Randall has served as the Treasurer at JEA in Jacksonville, Florida. He oversees an array of financial functions, including treasury operations, debt management, investments, rating agency communications, cash forecasting, and more. Episode Resources
/episode/index/show/a6d5933f-8050-4341-bc0a-1b9158b1ae28/id/32064257
info_outline
The Dynamics of Municipal Markets with Barnet Sherman
06/18/2024
The Dynamics of Municipal Markets with Barnet Sherman
In this episode of , join us for a captivating conversation with Barnet Sherman, a financial expert and Professor at Boston University. With over 30 years of experience managing multibillion-dollar portfolios at Morgan Stanley and TIAA, Barnet brings his knowledge and fascinating insights into the world of public finance. Host takes us through Barnet's extensive career, starting from his early days as an analyst to his significant role as a portfolio manager. Barnet reflects on the diverse projects he's been part of, highlighting not only the large-scale transactions for major cities but also the smaller, impactful projects in rural areas that have created jobs and improved community facilities. Barnet also shares his experiences in running portfolios, explaining the intricate balance between analyzing investment values and understanding the broader benefits for investors. He then takes listeners through his time at Neighborly Investments, where he worked on the cutting edge of technology and impact investing. He explains how technology, especially blockchain, is transforming the municipal bond market, offering new opportunities for accessibility and efficiency in public finance. Tune in to hear Barnet's thoughtful perspective on how public finance is evolving, the role of technology in enhancing financial processes, and his unwavering commitment to improving communities through strategic financial management. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of finance, technology, and public service. Featured Guest is a financial expert with over 30 years of experience managing multibillion-dollar portfolios for prestigious firms such as Morgan Stanley and TIAA. Throughout his distinguished career on Wall Street, Barnet also founded his own hedge fund and has written extensively on the capital markets as a Senior Contributor for Forbes. Currently a Professor at Boston University, Barnet leverages his extensive industry experience to impart practical, real-world insights in his Corporate Finance, Accounting, and Multinational Finance and Trade classes for graduate students. His expert opinions on investing and capital markets have been featured in leading publications including The Wall Street Journal, Barron’s, Bloomberg, The New York Times, Chronicle of Higher Education, CNBC, and Inc. Barnet also leads The Tenbar Group, a consulting firm advising public companies, private equity impact fund portfolio companies, and mission-driven startups in the healthcare, senior care, and housing sectors. His firm specializes in strategic transactions, investment banking, finance, business development, and valuations. Episode Resources
/episode/index/show/a6d5933f-8050-4341-bc0a-1b9158b1ae28/id/31788622
info_outline
Building Trust for Better Community Outcomes with Mark Funkhouser
05/28/2024
Building Trust for Better Community Outcomes with Mark Funkhouser
In this episode of , we’re joined by Mark Funkhouser, an expert in government finance and urban management. From growing up in West Virginia to finding an interest in political science in Pennsylvania, discover the path that led Mark to become a pivotal figure in Kansas City's administration. His career spans various roles, including social worker, director of the Performance Audit Group in Tennessee, and City Auditor in Kansas City. Through each position, Mark shares the importance of using government as a force for good, improving lives through effective management and fiscal responsibility. Join our host, , as he introduces us to Mark's philosophy on leadership and governance. You’ll learn about Mark's strategic initiatives during his tenure as Mayor of Kansas City, where he focused on improving the city's financial health, reducing crime, and managing significant infrastructure projects. Mark's leadership saw Kansas City through the Great Recession, achieving the best financial condition in decades and a notable reduction in crime rates. Mark also reflects on his post-mayoral career and his continued work in public finance and governance, including consulting and teaching, and his ongoing belief in the transformative power of effective public administration. His experience illustrates how effective governance can lead to better community outcomes and financial stability. Featured Guest , president of Funkhouser & Associates, is a distinguished municipal finance expert with decades of government service. As the mayor of Kansas City, Missouri, during the Great Recession, Mark made pivotal decisions to guide the city toward fiscal sustainability. His extensive experience as an auditor—coupled with his recent role as publisher of Governing magazine— has established him as a trusted advisor to government officials nationwide. Mark holds a master’s degree in social work from West Virginia University, an MBA from Tennessee State University, and an interdisciplinary Ph.D. in public administration and urban sociology from the University of Missouri at Kansas City. Episode Resources:
/episode/index/show/a6d5933f-8050-4341-bc0a-1b9158b1ae28/id/31496492
info_outline
From the Ground Up: Empowering Finance Teams with David Boyd
05/14/2024
From the Ground Up: Empowering Finance Teams with David Boyd
In this episode of , join us for an enlightening conversation with David Boyd, the Chief Financial Officer of Mecklenburg County, North Carolina—a region experiencing rapid growth, adding 127,000 to its population since 2020. David shares his journey from the Black Hills of South Dakota to the dynamic financial world of Mecklenburg County. From his initial steps in finance as a young auditor to rising as a leader influencing major fiscal strategies, David's career has been driven by a passion for impactful public service and a dedication to innovative financial management. Join our host, , as he explores David's approach to leading his team through complex challenges. Learn how David's leadership philosophy focuses not just on the 'what' and 'how' of operations but significantly on the 'why,' enhancing his team's engagement and effectiveness. David’s strategic initiatives, especially in capital planning and fiscal management, emphasize transparency and proactive fiscal stewardship, which have been important in managing the county’s substantial budget and capital projects worth billions. David also opens up about the personal side of his job, from how his son perceives his work to the deeper satisfaction that comes from knowing the tangible impact of his efforts on community infrastructure and services. Prepare to be inspired by a finance leader who’s not just keeping the books but rewriting them to better serve his community. This episode not only highlights the strategic role of financial leadership in government but also humanizes the profound impact such roles have on the quality of life in urban environments. Featured Guest , Chief Financial Officer of Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, holds an impressive track record in public and private sectors. Since August 2021, David has directed the financial operations of Mecklenburg County, overseeing a comprehensive array of functions including capital and debt planning, investments, accounting, payroll, procurement, grant management, and payables. His role extends to providing strategic financial support to various county departments, enhancing their efficiency and fiscal responsibility. David's tenure in Mecklenburg is marked by his adept management of complex budgets and his innovative approach to public fiscal administration. Prior to his current role, he made significant impacts as the Finance Director for the City of Durham, North Carolina, starting in 2010, and the City of Thornton, Colorado, where he served in multiple capacities including Tax Auditor, Controller, and Finance Director for over nearly 13 years. A proud alumnus of South Dakota State University, David holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics. His commitment to continuous professional development is evident in his credentials as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), and Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA).
/episode/index/show/a6d5933f-8050-4341-bc0a-1b9158b1ae28/id/31262897
info_outline
The Evolution of Municipal Finance Technology with Marty Feinstein
04/23/2024
The Evolution of Municipal Finance Technology with Marty Feinstein
In this episode of , we explore the remarkable journey of , an influential figure in the fusion of public finance and investment banking technology. Born and bred in New York, Marty’s story begins with his early exposure to computing at Jamaica High School, training on an IBM 1030 mainframe, and progresses through his ascension in the field post completing his master’s from Albany State. Join our host, as he guides us through Marty's story from his foundational programming work at International Paper, creating a forest-yielding algorithm, to his pivotal role at First Boston, where his uncle's advice steered him into the world of public finance. Marty recounts his transition from programming to financial analysis, and how the arrival of PCs and evolving technology shaped the industry. Listen along as he details the profound shifts in bond pricing technology, from the Monroe Bond Calculator to the dominance of Bloomberg terminals. Marty candidly discusses the impact of the Tax Reform Act of 1986, which threw municipal finance into tumult, and how it prompted changes in refunding bonds and the entry of analytical databases. As he reflects on his later roles and working with his team at DebtBook, we learn how Marty’s legacy is defined by a commitment to progress and the ability to harness knowledge for continuous improvement. Featured Guest is the Managing Director of Finance Product & Enablement and Head of Data Analysis/Excel Model Development at DebtBook. He first entered the Public Finance field in 1980 as a computer programmer at First Boston Corporation. In 1995, Marty joined Smith Barney (later to merge with Citi) where he became a director and headed the Finance Structuring Group within the Public Finance Department. Marty also worked for Global Financial Markets Institute as a consultant responsible for training clients in general Public Finance knowledge or Excel cash flow modeling. In April 2020, Marty joined DebtBook to help the team design and build user-friendly internal models to speed data entry of client information and train staff in general Public Finance knowledge. Download Now:
/episode/index/show/a6d5933f-8050-4341-bc0a-1b9158b1ae28/id/30949543
info_outline
Public-Private Partnerships for Debt & Asset Management with Matt Dull
04/02/2024
Public-Private Partnerships for Debt & Asset Management with Matt Dull
FREE PLAYBOOK: In this episode of Where Public Finance Works, we’re joined by Matt Dull, the Associate Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs at Appalachian State University, where he details the complexities of university finance and infrastructure. Join our host, , as he guides listeners through Matt's two decades of innovative leadership, which has significantly shaped the University's living spaces and financial strategies. Matt recounts his efforts in elevating student living standards through creative public-private partnerships (P3). These initiatives have helped redefine residential life on campus by fostering environments conducive to academic success and personal growth. He shares the careful process of increasing campus housing capacity, achieving the addition of over 2,300 beds, while emphasizing the need for affordability and quality. Through Matt’s narrative, we gain insights into the holistic impact of well-designed living spaces on student retention and satisfaction. His commitment to balancing cost-efficiency with the creation of vibrant communities shows the far-reaching benefits of strategic planning in higher education. Featured Guest is the Associate Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs, holding a diverse portfolio that includes Administrative Services, the Child Development Center, Electronic Student Services, University Housing, Staff Development & Strategic Initiatives, Student Affairs Assessment, and Student Affairs Capital Projects. With a distinguished career in higher education administration, Matt has served in pivotal roles, including Director of Administrative Support Services from July 2010 until his promotion to Assistant Vice Chancellor. His extensive experience extends internationally, having held positions such as the Senior Associate Director of Admissions at Appalachian and Director for the University of North Carolina System Office at Fudan University in Shanghai, China.
/episode/index/show/a6d5933f-8050-4341-bc0a-1b9158b1ae28/id/30628233
info_outline
Technology, Democratizing Data, and the FDTA with Megan Kilgore
03/19/2024
Technology, Democratizing Data, and the FDTA with Megan Kilgore
FREE PLAYBOOK: In this episode of , we’re joined by Megan Kilgore, the accomplished City Auditor of Columbus, Ohio. Megan takes us through her journey from a child inspired by public figures like Margaret Thatcher and Sally Ride to becoming a leading force in one of America's fastest-growing cities. She shares her passion for public service and how her upbringing in a hardworking, blue-collar family shaped her values and a people-first approach to government finance. Join our host, , as he leads us through Megan's insights on the complexities of managing a city's finances during rapid growth and maintaining trust with a diverse populace. Megan discusses the innovative solutions her office has implemented, including deploying technology to enhance efficiency without losing the crucial human touch that ensures services are people-focused. Touching upon the , Megan addresses misconceptions around governmental fraud and the act's intention to modernize financial reporting. She shares her passionate view that the FDTA isn't about defending against fraud but rather about democratizing data, making information more accessible and easier to understand, which ultimately serves the public good. Megan's drive for modernization — from "COBOL to cloud" — has marked her tenure as City Auditor, and her leadership has seen Columbus through significant fiscal challenges. This episode not only explores the strategic financial initiatives Megan has spearheaded but also reveals her belief in the creativity and capability of government workers to innovate and excel in public finance management. Featured Guest City Auditor of Columbus, , is the first woman elected to this executive branch position in Columbus. In her role as City Auditor she has pioneered significant advances in fiscal management for the 14th largest city in the United States. Serving since January 2018, Megan's tenure is marked by her supervision of seven critical departments. She handles debt issuance, investor relations, a $2.8 billion investment portfolio, citywide accounting, and payroll services for a workforce of 10,000, while also modernizing three significant technological systems. Megan also imparts her knowledge as an Adjunct Lecturer at The Ohio State University's John Glenn College of Public Affairs. She has been shaping the minds of graduate-level Public Finance students for over a decade, bringing her on-the-ground experience into the academic sphere.
/episode/index/show/a6d5933f-8050-4341-bc0a-1b9158b1ae28/id/30358343
info_outline
Muni Market Trends: The Golden Era of Public Finance with Justin Marlowe (Part 2)
03/05/2024
Muni Market Trends: The Golden Era of Public Finance with Justin Marlowe (Part 2)
In this episode of Where Public Finance Works, , esteemed faculty member at the University of Chicago’s Harris School of Public Policy, returns to share his insight on important shifts within the municipal market. Following where we left off in , Justin takes us through the current renaissance in public finance, celebrating the unleashing of expertise across all levels, from CFOs to billing clerks. He emphasizes the expectation for these professionals to not just execute tasks but to actively engage in policy-shaping discussions, highlighting the shift from static fund allocation to dynamic, informed decision-making that impacts policy and community development. Join our host, , as he and Justin discuss the significant role of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) in shaping new financial models, particularly in , and the intricate dance of managing in municipal bonds. Justin also sheds light on the pressing workforce challenges within public finance, marking the need for a diverse skill set in the era of AI and technological advancements. He shares valuable insight into innovative approaches to recruitment and , recognizing the potential of talent with non-traditional backgrounds enriching the public finance workforce. This episode not only underscores the transformational power of and the consequent responsibilities but also showcases public finance as a robust, adaptable field, rising to meet the complexities of a changing world. One undeniable trend is the internationalization of state and local public finance when you talk to borrowers today. Featured Guest is a Research Professor at the University of Chicago’s Harris School of Public Policy and co-hosts the popular podcast “.” His teaching and research are focused on state and local government budgeting, finance, and financial management. He has published five books – including the forthcoming Public Debt Management: Strategy and Evidence – and dozens of articles on the municipal bond market, infrastructure finance, governmental accounting, and local fiscal policy. FREE DOWNLOAD:
/episode/index/show/a6d5933f-8050-4341-bc0a-1b9158b1ae28/id/30195978
info_outline
Talent Development and Succession Planning with Maureen Joyce
02/20/2024
Talent Development and Succession Planning with Maureen Joyce
In this episode of Where Public Finance Works, we explore the inspiring career of Maureen Joyce, whose roots run deep within the city of Boston. With a family legacy in accounting and a personal journey that was shaped by higher education finance, Maureen's narrative intertwines with the growth of prestigious institutions and the city itself. Join our host, , as he guides us through Maureen's contributions to Northeastern University, where she pioneered the Internal Audit department and later, the Accounting department, marking her pivotal role in the university's expansion. Her story is one of mentorship and innovation, highlighted by the (Co-op) program that has groomed generations of finance professionals. Maureen discusses her latest chapter as the of Boston where she shares her vision for government finance, emphasizing the need for innovative practices, technological advancements, and the hiring of new talent within the public sector. Her proactive approach to recruitment and her passion for nurturing new professionals shows that the sustainability of public finance hinges on the fresh perspectives, energy, and innovative capabilities of the next generation. Maureen's advice to young professionals and her outlook on the challenges ahead offer invaluable insights for anyone interested in public finance. Featured Guest is the City Auditor for the City of Boston. In her capacity as Boston's Auditor, Maureen acts as the cornerstone of fiscal oversight for the city, serving as the Comptroller and vital nexus between Boston and its Audit Committee, as well as the external auditors. Maureen's influence extends into the academic realm, where she has been a consultant to various colleges and universities in the Greater Boston Area for nearly nine years. Her previous positions include a tenure as Chief Financial Officer at the Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology, a pivotal role as a Senior Financial Analyst in Special Projects at Emmanuel College, Director of Sponsored Program Administration at Northeastern University, and a strategic period as Vice President for Finance and Administration, Treasurer at Ave Maria University in Florida.
/episode/index/show/a6d5933f-8050-4341-bc0a-1b9158b1ae28/id/30032123
info_outline
Muni Market Trends: Past, Present, & Future with Justin Marlowe (Part 1)
02/06/2024
Muni Market Trends: Past, Present, & Future with Justin Marlowe (Part 1)
In this episode of Where Public Finance Works, we explore the experience of , esteemed faculty member at the University of Chicago’s Harris School of Public Policy. Here Justin shares the complexities and rewards of public finance and his unique ability to provide expansive guidance and insights. Join our host, , as he takes us through Justin’s prolific writing career, highlighting his five published works, including the growing excitement around his forthcoming book which offers an invaluable issuer’s perspective on the municipal bond market. As the episode unfolds, Justin reflects on his two decades of teaching, celebrating the transformative impact of education on his students who discover unforeseen passions and career avenues in public finance. Justin’s story is a testament to the impact of nurturing a passion for public service, educational empowerment, and the ongoing drive for innovation in the field of public finance. Read Tyler Traudt's latest article, ""
/episode/index/show/a6d5933f-8050-4341-bc0a-1b9158b1ae28/id/29825688
info_outline
The Evolution of Governmental Accounting & Auditing with Jamie Wilkey
01/23/2024
The Evolution of Governmental Accounting & Auditing with Jamie Wilkey
In this episode of Where Public Finance Works, we explore the intricate world of governmental accounting with , a dedicated Partner at Lauterbach & Amen, LLP, boasting a remarkable 22-year journey within the firm. Starting as an intern and evolving into a firm partner, Jamie's story is one of growth, adaptability, and commitment to the public finance industry. Join our host, , as he uncovers Jamie’s approach to the evolving GASB standards and the crucial balance between clear communication with external stakeholders and manageable operations for local governments. Jamie's take on the future of public finance functions, including the significance of efficient technology tools and the need for early education in public finance, are especially important for listeners in the public finance space. Jamie's story isn’t just about numbers and audits; it's about strengthening firm culture, adapting to changing standards, and the relentless pursuit of progress in public finance. Read Tyler's latest article, ""
/episode/index/show/a6d5933f-8050-4341-bc0a-1b9158b1ae28/id/29612288
info_outline
Rising Above Crisis with Strategic Cash Reserves and Fiscal Transformation with Lindsay Miller
01/05/2024
Rising Above Crisis with Strategic Cash Reserves and Fiscal Transformation with Lindsay Miller
In this episode of Where Public Finance Works, we dive into the many challenges of local government finance with , the Finance Director of Junction City, Kansas. With a passion for numbers that propelled her to the active public service industry, Lindsay shares her trajectory of growth through the ranks, culminating in her current role where she's reshaping the fiscal landscape of Junction City. Join our host, , as he uncovers the strategic challenges and triumphs of managing a city's finances amidst the ebbs and flows of . Discover how Junction City dealt with the repercussions of a stalled troop movement that left the city with a $133 million debt load. Lindsay's insights into the nuances of local government finance, from the intricacies of staffing to the foresight in crisis management, are as educational as they are inspiring. This episode is not just a journey through the ledgers and spreadsheets of city finance but a narrative of resilience, community, and the relentless pursuit of progress.
/episode/index/show/a6d5933f-8050-4341-bc0a-1b9158b1ae28/id/29358908
info_outline
Agile Debt Financing Through Draw Programs with Matthew Hastedt
12/19/2023
Agile Debt Financing Through Draw Programs with Matthew Hastedt
“We want to make sure that we’re getting as much return as we can while ensuring we never put the public’s money at risk.” – Matthew Hastedt In this episode of Where Public Finance Works, we discover how the country’s 5th fastest-growing city manages more than a billion dollars in debt to improve communities in Charlotte, North Carolina. Listen along as Matthew Hastedt, Charlotte’s Treasurer, speaks on forecasting city revenues and how strategic legislation lobbying protects both urban and rural interests. Matthew takes you into the $200 million Spectrum Center improvements, the city’s partnership with the Charlotte Hornets basketball team, and how he faces the delicate balance of directing hospitality taxes. Join our host, , as he uncovers how billions in are managed, saving millions in interest on massive infrastructure projects and keeping municipal services like water and sewer affordable. Learn how Matthew’s commitment to city department collaboration and his advocacy for draw programs have revolutionized Charlotte’s strategy for appropriately allocating the city’s funds toward competing projects.
/episode/index/show/a6d5933f-8050-4341-bc0a-1b9158b1ae28/id/29146478
info_outline
Grant Centralization & Education Funding in NC with Lee Plunkett
12/04/2023
Grant Centralization & Education Funding in NC with Lee Plunkett
“You want a community where people want to live here, work here, and play here, and to know you had a part of that is pretty important.” - Lee Plunkett In this episode of Where Public Finance Works, we unravel the unseen world of public finance through the compelling journey of Lee Plunkett, Assistant CFO at Forsyth County in North Carolina. Discover the diverse path our guest has taken in his finance career, as Lee shares his unique story—from the Illinois Department of Corrections to a stint in retail banking, and a pivotal role in the Governor’s Office. Lee takes you into the strategic financial management practices of Forsyth County, exploring detailed approaches to debt financing, the significance of two-thirds bonds, and crucial decisions in the realm of investments. Join our host, Tyler Traudt, as he uncovers the challenges faced by public finance teams, including staff turnover and the impending retirement cliff, while highlighting the rewarding role of delivering essential services and progress to communities. Lee’s insights, from his excitement for budgets to the creation of a centralized grants program, offer a behind-the-scenes look into the often-unseen world of public finance.
/episode/index/show/a6d5933f-8050-4341-bc0a-1b9158b1ae28/id/28874788