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A new survey of city of Dunkirk residents shows strong public support for establishing an independent financial control board to oversee the city’s finances, reinforcing calls by state Sen. George Borrello and Assemblyman Andrew Molitor for action to restore fiscal discipline and public trust.

The survey of 178 residents conducted Feb. 12 and 13, found that 68% of residents support creating an independent third-party financial control board, while just 13% are opposed and 18% are unsure. It also found widespread dissatisfaction with the city’s direction, with only 7% of respondents saying Dunkirk is on the right track and 73% saying it is headed in the wrong direction.

“These results send a clear message: Dunkirk residents recognize the seriousness of the city’s financial situation and want meaningful, independent oversight,” Borrello said. “The city is facing a financial crisis marked by systemic mismanagement, record tax increases, and deeply troubling corruption cases. A financial control board is not about punishment; it’s about protecting taxpayers, restoring transparency, and putting Dunkirk on a sustainable path forward.”

Concerns about the city’s financial management have intensified following a series of alarming developments. Most recently, the longtime and former city treasurer was charged with allegedly stealing more than $120,000 from taxpayers, the second indictment of a city official in recent years involving the alleged theft of public funds. The case has further heightened concerns about internal controls and financial oversight.

Molitor said the survey confirms that residents are seeking lasting solutions to stabilize the city’s finances.

“This isn’t about politics or partisanship. It is about restoring sound financial management and ensuring the city has the safeguards in place to prevent chronic and future problems. An independent control board would bring the expertise, oversight, and fiscal discipline necessary to help Dunkirk regain stability and rebuild public confidence for the future,” said Assemblyman Molitor.

The survey findings come amid repeated warnings from the State Comptroller about poor recordkeeping, incomplete financial reporting, and the city’s deteriorating fiscal condition. These longstanding deficiencies, combined with recent corruption cases, have underscored the need for sustained, independent oversight.

Last year, the state authorized a $13.7 million loan to help Dunkirk address immediate cash flow needs. The loan carries a 7.5% interest rate over 15 years and requires the city to forgo its annual AIM funding during the repayment period, raising concerns about its long-term fiscal impact and the absence of structural financial reforms.

Borrello and Molitor have urged Gov. Kathy Hochul to support legislation establishing a state financial control board for Dunkirk, arguing that such oversight is essential to restoring fiscal stability and protecting taxpayers.

“The residents of Dunkirk have spoken clearly,” Borrello said. “They want accountability, transparency, and responsible financial management. This is an opportunity for the mayor and city council to join Assemblyman Molitor and me in working together toward that goal.”

The poll was conducted by Eagle Point Strategies and has a margin of error of 7.26%.