Office of the NYS Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli

August is #BlackBusinessMonth. My recent report on NYS business owners found Black New Yorkers are significantly underrepresented. They make up only 3.4% of all businesses, even though they are 14.2% of the state's population. Let’s all do our part to support these small businesses that provide jobs and empower local communities.

Leslie Buccino joined the Office of the New York State Comptroller as a graphic designer 2 in August of 2023, bringing a wealth of creativity and expertise with her. With an eye for design and a passion for visual communication, Leslie plays a pivotal role in crafting compelling graphics that enhance the office’s publications and digital presence. She was recently honored with an “Outstanding New Employee” MVP award for being “highly organized, an effective communicator and detail oriented” and a valuable member of the communications team. We asked Leslie about her experiences. 🔵What brought you to the State Comptroller’s Office? I joined the Office of the State Comptroller to transition from being an art director and designer in the agency world to an in-house role seeking new opportunities to contribute to the public good. The executive communications team was the perfect fit as I am able to leverage my skills as a designer across all mediums, from print, to digital/web, and motion, while being challenged creatively thanks to the variety of projects each day. 🔵How has your experience been? My experience has been positive—a collaborative culture and strong support for career development and continuous learning. I couldn’t be more grateful for this team that I have joined! 🔵What would you say to anyone considering a job at the State Comptroller’s Office? I’d encourage you to apply to learn more. If you’re seeking stability and career growth, retirement security with a state pension, comprehensive medical insurance, a hybrid work schedule, and a great work-life balance—this is the place for you. In addition, it’s fulfilling being able to contribute to an independent agency that has a direct impact for fellow New Yorkers. Thank you for all you do, Leslie! Are you looking to start your career in public service? Join the State Comptroller’s office and build a career with purpose. Visit osc.ny.gov/jobs.

I’d like to congratulate Wayne Spence for being elected to a historic fourth term as President of the NYS Public Employees Federation.  I was honored to join him and other labor leaders and public officials for his swearing in today in Albany. He serves on my Advisory Council for the Local and State Retirement System, and when we have committed leaders like Wayne, we can achieve great things for our public employees and New York State. 

The building trades are at the core of NY’s economic recovery and critical to building the state’s infrastructure. I expressed my support for these workers at today’s NYS Building & Construction Trades Council Annual Officers Meeting in Saratoga Springs where I spoke about the State’s budget and finances. A strong workforce is a sound investment. #UnionStrong

@nyserda’s Clean Energy Fund will spend $7.5 billion in funding from ratepayers, but crucial energy efficiency programs have underperformed and must be ramped up. It is important for the state’s climate goals that these funds are spent effectively. #cleanenergy Read more: https://lnkd.in/eZVg92uP

NYC's contract spending has grown significantly in recent years, rising to $24.3B in FY 2023, an increase of nearly $7B from FY 2019. This represents 41% of total citywide operating spending growth in this period. Read more: ⬇ https://lnkd.in/eMcttUwd

Ryan Yaddow has been a valuable member of the information technology service desk since his very first day at the Office of the New York State Comptroller. Known for his technical proficiency and exceptional problem-solving skills, Ryan provides top-notch support to ensure the smooth functioning of the office’s technological resources. His commitment to excellence and responsive service makes him an integral part of our team, helping to maintain the efficiency and reliability of the office’s IT infrastructure. Ryan was recently honored as an “Outstanding New Employee” at our annual MVP awards. We spoke with him about his experiences. 🔵What brought you to the State Comptroller’s office? I have friends and family members who have worked for the State Comptroller’s office as well as other state agencies and the thing I hear most is that this is by far the best agency to work for. So, when I was offered a position, I was happy to accept. 🔵What has your experience been like? So far, my experience has been great. I’ve learned a lot about myself as an employee/coworker and I’ve been able to use skills that I’ve obtained during my journey here to help further my career and help others with theirs. The culture is unlike other places where I’ve worked. Everyone is so willing to lend a helping hand with whatever situation arises and there are plenty of opportunities to advance. Whether that’s a specific bureau or job title you’re looking to advance to, the opportunities are here to take advantage of. 🔵What would you say to anyone considering a position with our office? If there is any interest at all in working for a state agency and you have the skills or degree required, I would highly recommend working here. Between the people, the culture, and the opportunities available, it basically sells itself! Thank you, Ryan. We are lucky to have you with us! Are you looking to start advancing your information technology career? Visit osc.ny.gov/jobs to view and apply for open positions on the State Comptroller’s team.

Micron Technology received $6 billion+ in federal CHIPS Act funding to build semiconductor factories in Central NY. As part of the agreement, they're meeting with labor leaders. The #NYSPensionFund encourages companies to adopt policies of neutrality & non-interference towards organizing employees. I urge Micron to reaffirm their support. Read more: https://lnkd.in/efbb5V9z

The COVID-19 pandemic upended the lives of New Yorkers and, for thousands of families, led to devastating losses of loved ones. For us all, and especially for the families of those who died in nursing homes, the time is overdue for a full analysis of the state’s response to the pandemic. An independent report by the Olson Group was expected to be an objective assessment of the state’s response to the crisis. Sorry to say, the Olson report failed to provide a rigorous, fact-based examination, nor does it provide a roadmap for improvements. Read my op-ed in the Times Union on why I think NY needs an independent commission, with subpoena power, to provide the comprehensive accounting New Yorkers deserve. https://lnkd.in/gbbAzdPP

Ensuring safe and reliable public infrastructure is an ongoing concern for local governments across the country. Our report found one in 10 locally-owned bridges in New York is rated in poor condition. Despite the commitment of federal and state resources to improve the condition of these bridges, there is a great deal more work that needs to be done. Municipalities need this funding to continue so sorely needed repairs and maintenance are completed. Read more: https://lnkd.in/g-VKNKvR