After seven years, Regina Mauras, the city of Homer’s finance director, is moving on. Mauras has accepted the position of finance director with the city of Prosser, Wash. Her last day on the job in Homer is March 8.
She likened her experience interviewing for the new position to a television show.
“I interviewed before (an interview) panel of eight. The panelists took everyone to lunch, the mayor called us back, shook all our hands, thanked us for interviewing and said to keep our cell phones on because one of us would be called,” said Mauras. “I got the call 10 minutes later.”
Not only was an offer letter waiting for Mauras’ signature, it addressed everything she had on her list of priorities.
“I never had a desire to move to Washington. It just happened,” said Mauras who leaves Alaska March 11 and begins the new chapter in her life as finance director for Prosser, with a population of about 5,800, the following day.
“When I came here, one thing I hoped for was to make a difference. I think I have. I’ve incorporated some internal controls. Every finance department should have a level of transparency and I believe the city of Homer has that now,” she said. “Homer has some big projects they’re heading into, but I’ve made myself available if they need me. I’m still just a phone call away.”
Homer City Manager Walt Wrede noted Mauras’ accomplishments in his report to the council on Monday. He said he has begun an aggressive recruitment to find a new finance director for the city.
“I would especially like to take note of the very significant improvements she made in the areas of internal controls and basic accounting practices,” said Wrede. “(Mauras) has been a real asset and she will be missed.”
Council members also took time during their closing comments at Monday’s meeting to wish Mauras well.
“We will really miss her. She has done a great job during budget time and kept everything organized,” said council member Francie Roberts. “Thank you for everything you’ve done for us.”
McKibben Jackinsky can be reached at mckibben.jackinsky@homernews.com.