RICHMOND mayoral candidate Councillor Kash Heed is proposing stronger fiscal oversight measures to improve accountability in the management of public funds if elected mayor.

Heed says Richmond must avoid further criticism from organizations such as the Canadian Taxpayers’ Federation and ensure taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly, transparently, and with stronger oversight.

He is proposing the creation of a Budget Public Accountability and Audit Office, separate from the Chief Administrative Office and the Director of Finance’s Office, which would report directly to Council.

If elected, Heed says he will establish an independent Budget Public Accountability and Audit Office to strengthen oversight of municipal spending, improve transparency, and enhance financial accountability to Council and the public.

Heed says: “We won’t ever again be sending seven bureaucrats on a European junket complete with five-star hotels at a cost of $78,000 to deliver a single speech.

“Taxpayers deserve safeguards to ensure public funds are not only properly accounted for, but also spent responsibly, with clear rules, limits, and transparent accountability mechanisms, both internally to Council and externally to the public.

“This kind of behaviour has gone on for too long at Richmond City Hall under leadership that has lost focus. If elected, I will take charge and work with Council to implement stronger discipline, clearer standards, and common-sense governance practices.

“That impression is going to change immediately upon my election.”

Heed says he has heard from residents who are increasingly concerned about fiscal management at Richmond City Hall and believes stronger oversight structures are needed to restore public confidence.