• What is a constitutional officer?

Locally-elected constitutional officers have a long history in Virginia, dating back to the first constitution of 1776.  The Constitution of Virginia currently sets out five locally-elected officials, commonly referred to as “constitutional officers,” since their offices are derived from the state constitution.  The five locally elected officers are Clerk of Circuit Court, Commonwealth Attorney, Commissioner of the Revenue, Sheriff, and Treasurer.

• Why is the City Treasurer an elected position?

Many people often wonder why the City Treasurer is elected, and if the position is still relevant in today’s Council-Manager form of government.  The Treasurer’s independent status as an elected official ensures that local funds will be collected, invested, safeguarded, and spent by an officer who reports directly to the people.  In this manner, you are ensured that the duties of revenue collection will be performed by an elected officer who will be responsive and receptive to you, the citizen.  Having constitutional officers also further combats the concentration of power in local government, flattens the layers of bureaucracy, and provides critical checks and balances within local government.

• What tasks does the Treasurer perform?

The City Treasurer performs duties in four major areas of focus for the citizens of Charlottesville:

Customer Service: Overseeing the front lobby operation in City Hall, the Treasurer’s Office serves as the face of the City for many citizens.  The Treasurer’s office performs many customer service functions such as the sale of dog tags, trash decals, zone parking permits, large item trash pickups, and serves as the payment hub for every dollar that flows through your local government.

Tax and Revenue Collection: The Treasurer prepares, mails, and collects all bills for real and personal property located in the City of Charlottesville.  The office also aggressively pursues the collection of all delinquent taxes and fees owed to the City.  By collecting what is owed, the Treasurer helps keep your tax bills lower, and makes sure that every dollar is maximized.

Cash Management:  The City Treasurer oversees an effective cash management program for the City and its agencies, and acts as fiscal agent for the Charlottesville City Schools and the Charlottesville Albemarle Technical Education Center.  The Treasurer also makes all disbursements for the City, manages the City’s banking relationships, and safeguards the City’s financial resources.

Investments: In addition to these direct citizen services, the Treasurer is also responsible for prudently investing all city funds to maximize safety, availability, and return on investment.  The Treasurer also acts as an independent voice on the City’s retirement commission, and acts as the fund’s custodian.