Change at the Helm In Finance Dept.

By Holly Crocco

A familiar face has returned to Putnam County, with Bill Carlin coming out of retirement to return to his role as commissioner of finance, being immediately appointed following the departure of Michael Lewis.

“I am thrilled to welcome Bill back to the Finance Department,” said County Executive Kevin Byrne in a press release sent out Aug. 1. “His experience and dedication to the county will be invaluable as we continue to move forward with our financial operations. Bill’s leadership will ensure a seamless continuation of the county’s financial functions and provide the stability needed during this time of change.”

During the County Legislature’s Aug. 5 meeting, Legislator Paul Jonke, R-Brewster, thanked Lewis for the service he provided to the county, noting that, “On Friday he was unceremoniously terminated from his position as commissioner of finance.”

“His termination was sudden,” said Jonke. “It was after the 2026 budget process had begun. There have been meetings with departments and department heads to instruct the budget for next year, so I’m really a little bewildered at how this happened.”

Jonke, who has been critical of Byrne’s leadership, called the 2025 budget process “a disaster” – at no fault of Lewis.

“Nobody had any answers to any of the questions that we asked during our committee meetings – except for Mike Lewis. He answered us. He was transparent… While it is a prerogative of the county executive to hire and fire these positions, I don’t understand it and I once again thank Mike Lewis for his service.”

Legislature Chairwoman Amy Sayegh, R-Mahopac Falls, also thanked Lewis.

“He was very professional, very responsible, and responsive to all the legislators,” she said. “I’m sorry to see him go.”

She also thanked Carlin for his willingness to come back to the position, especially to help the county through its budgeting process for next year.

Carlin, who served as the county’s chief financial officer for 33 years before retiring in 2023, played a crucial part in maintaining the county’s fiscal health, managing budgets, and overseeing financial reporting for decades. His leadership was instrumental in implementing best practices in financial management.

“I am honored to be asked to return and serve as commissioner of finance,” said Carlin. “I look forward to working with the executive’s office, the Legislature, and the dedicated team in the Finance Department to ensure the continued financial health and efficiency of Putnam County.”

Lewis served under Carlin as chief deputy commissioner for two years, prior to Carlin’s retirement and his own appointment.