The what, why, who, how and when of municipal finance

Weskus Distrik’s Deputy Mayor Sandra Crafford discusses her switch from the private sector to the public sector and her Financial Oversight role. Sandra also encourages finance graduates to join the public sector and urges residents to get involved in their municipalities.

Sandra, was switching sectors easy for you?

No. Although the accounting fundamentals are the same, the difference between running a small business accounting practice and overseeing Municipal Finances is huge!

It took a steep learning curve to understand the many facets of my new portfolio.

I hit the road running because I became Deputy Mayor and Chairperson of Finance after just a year as a councillor. Everyone was happy that someone with an accounting background had been tasked with the oversight responsibility.

I just had to learn to swim, and fast!

Main challenges?

There were many challenges but gaining an understanding of the extensive legislation which governs local finance and governance – and knowing how to apply the legislation – ranks high as a challenge. You also must grow a new level of patience.

What do you mean by ‘patience’?

Finance is part of every action, from planning and budgeting to actual execution and reporting of the planned event. Every step is legislated and involves council, administration, and the public.

Legislation prescribes in detail what, how, who and even when that everything must be done. Every new project or even new ways of doing things must go through the full cycle and councillors must understand the whole process to perform oversight and influence changes.

And here you are today, Deputy Mayor of one of SA’s top performing municipalities.

I was very lucky to have strong mentors who guided and assisted me. These were both councillors and very experienced officials who were more than willing to take the time and share their knowledge.

Why is Weskus Distrik so strong in Financial Management?

Weskus Distrik is blessed with highly experienced and ethical officials. They actively perform in forums where legislation is commented on and where practical implementation is discussed, ensuring that they know the ‘why’ and ‘how’.

They also believe in paying forward by training our own young and junior officials and interns, and also assist other municipalities.

What would you say to young finance graduates?

I would tell them that Weskus Distrik is an excellent entry into Municipal Finance. We invest in providing extensive practical experience, and we genuinely care about the development of our people.

Anything else you’d like to add Sandra?

Yes, I would like to encourage the public to get involved in their local municipalities. At times, it can seem looks like more effort than it is worth, but register as a supplier or consultant, attend public meetings and information sessions, and present yourself to ward committees, focus groups, audit committee members, or even as councillors. The more the community “takes ownership” of the municipality, the better it can become as an institution.

Sandra Crafford
Deputy Mayor
Weskus Distrik