Dunkirk city treasurer is an elected position. According to the state comptroller’s office, that position is not doing a portion of its job.

“If city officials had implemented shut-off procedures in accordance with the code, the city could have collected more than $577,000 on delinquent accounts and realized an additional $31,200 in service resumption fees,” a recent audit by Thomas DiNapoli’s office state. It notes that the city apparently hasn’t shut off water service on delinquent accounts serving a total of 1,560 customers.

There is a lot of good will in not shutting off water. But if there is no penalty, why would anyone pay?

Obviously, this audit surprised the administration and the council and dates back before much of this legislative body was in office. In the meantime, council members who have nitpicked on much smaller ticket items need to demand the city start collecting on missing revenue.

That amount of $577,000 is about 2.5% of the city’s current budget. It’s not pocket change.

With all municipal budgets, every cent — especially those you are not collecting — counts.