Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop has appointed Elizabeth Castillo as the acting director of the city’s department of finance, taking over for John Metro – who is now the interim business administrator.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“Liz Castillo is the epitome of what hard work can accomplish – having started as a clerk for HHS in 2003, she has a track record of success in every step of her career, leading up to her new role as Acting Director of Finance,” Fulop said in a statement.
“We are in the midst of historically challenging times as we face unprecedented financial hardships, but I have no doubt she will continue our aggressive efforts in creating a sustainable and resilient fiscal model for Jersey City now and for decades to come.”
In her most recent position as the Finance Department’s chief financial officer, Castillo, a Jersey City resident and employee since 2003, played a key role within the city’s financial team – which includes six budgets in a row with zero tax increase, along with the struggles due to COVID-19.
“As a single mother, a Jersey City resident, and a Latina, I’m beyond humbled to be entrusted by Mayor Fulop with this great opportunity to continue the important work within the newly established Division of Finance,” Castillo added.
“I’m excited to further solidify our stance as a regional model of what fiscal responsibility can accomplish.”
Castillo’s accounting career spans more than 21 years of combined experience in governmental, manufacturing, and managerial roles, during which time she also obtained state licensure as a Certified Municipal Financial Officer.
As acting director, she will oversee five divisions within the Finance Department: Management and Budget, Collections, Treasury and Debt Management, Accounts and Control, and Payroll.
“Liz has been a great asset to our finance team, and is the best fit to further lead the city in our objective to best serve the residents and businesses citywide,” noted Metro.
