GREENFIELD — After city councilors questioned Mayor Ginny Desorgher about the state of the city’s finances amid significant staff turnover at Wednesday’s council meeting, the mayor released a written statement on Friday responding to the concerns.

Precinct 9 Councilor Derek Helie and Precinct 5 Councilor Marianne Bullock had asked the mayor whether the city has been able to manage its finances effectively, given the loss of its more experienced staff. Bullock’s line of questioning referenced a letter addressed to the council written by former Treasurer/Collector Kelly Varner accusing the mayor of irresponsible financial practices and “handing out” raises haphazardly.

In her written response shared with the Recorder on Friday, Desorgher emphasized that the city has remained “remain proactive and considerate” in its financial planning and is expected to meet or exceed its new growth objectives.

“I must disagree with the notion that we do not implement financial planning. I and the finance team have and continue to curate a long-term vision for our city’s finances,” Desorgher wrote. “We remain committed to providing core services to our community while projecting how the city will evolve in the future. In addition, our Assessor’s Department has executed personal property inventory to add new growth onto the tax rolls, totaling over $240,000 from this year to last.”

Desorgher provided an overview of the city staff who have departed or are departing, stating that many are “pursuing new avenues for personal and professional growth” following their service in Greenfield.

The mayor mentioned that former Finance Director Diana Parsons is now Colrain’s town administrator and former City Accountant Angelica Desroches is now working in Montague. She added that Communications Director Matthew Conway will transition to part-time work as he relocates closer to home in November.

“I wanted an opportunity to respond to the recent commentary that has circulated regarding internal turmoil,” Desorgher wrote. “My executive assistant [Janine Greaves] is retiring after 37 years of invaluable service to the city. … Other staff have also retired after lengthy careers here in Greenfield.”

Referencing concerns about the city’s operations after more than 12 City Hall employees departed this year, Desorgher wrote that despite the challenges that come with being short-staffed, Greenfield is “acclimating a great team” to meet the city’s goals, and has recruited staff training resources from more experienced city staff.

“The finance team is working with great focus and detail to prepare the city for the next budget cycle. Finance Director Stella Chan and Accountant Katherine Cabrera-Veloz have been a joy to work with, and they are incredibly dedicated to their day-to-day responsibilities,” Desorgher said. “In addition, our Treasurer/Collector’s Office will welcome a new treasurer with roughly 10 years of municipal experience this month, further strengthening our team. The pieces are all forming together and I am optimistic about what we can all achieve.”

Anthony Cammalleri can be reached at acammalleri@recorder.com or 413-930-4429.