Poughkeepsie … Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino has announced the upcoming retirement of Heidi Seelbach, the County’s Commissioner of Finance, following more than a decade of service in County Government. Ms. Seelbach will officially retire April 30, 2026.
Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “In her tenure with
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Dutchess County, Heidi has been a tireless advocate for improved efficiency and modernizations that have saved millions over the years. The Department of Finance is vital to the operation of County government, and we are grateful for the legacy of professionalism and expertise Heidi has instilled in her team, ensuring the thousands of transactions completed each year are done efficiently and securely. I am especially thankful to Heidi for agreeing to delay her retirement to help me transition into my role as County Executive—her dedication and support speak volumes about her commitment to this County. We wish her all the best in her future!”
Ms. Seelbach began her service with Dutchess County Government in 2011 when she was appointed Director of Central Services by former County Executive William R. Steinhaus. In 2012, she became the Deputy Commissioner of Finance before being appointed Commissioner in 2014 by former County Executive Marcus J. Molinaro. Prior to joining Dutchess County Government, she oversaw fiscal management at St. Cabrini Home in West Park, NY, serving in various roles including Comptroller and the Director of Finance.
As Dutchess County’s Commissioner of Finance, Ms. Seelbach has served as the Chief Fiscal Officer of the County charged with the responsibility of receipt and disbursement of county funds. As Commissioner, she has been responsible for the enforcement of real property taxes levied for county, town, school district and village purposes; obtaining borrowing on behalf of the County to finance capital projects; issuing Official Statements as required; and ensuring all financial records comply with the rules established by the Comptroller of the State of New York as well as accounting standards set by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board.
Under her leadership, the County’s bond rating was upgraded to AA+ by Standard & Poor’s (S&P), among the highest ratings for counties in New York State. The County has maintained that impressive rating since 2014, thanks to Ms. Seelbach’s strong financial policies and practices, which include employing a range of strategies for cash management, such as taking advantage of market conditions to maximize interest earnings, refinancing bonds, paying down debt, and avoiding new debt by financing critical capital projects with cash. These measures have saved County taxpayers millions of dollars during her tenure.
Other initiatives under Commissioner Seelbach’s leadership include:
Ms. Seelbach, a resident of Hyde Park, has recently become engaged and looks forward to retirement and her upcoming wedding, travelling, and spending time with her family and friends.
Heidi Seelbach said, “I am grateful to County Executive Serino for her support of the Finance department team and for taking the time to learn more about the intricate workings of this complex department. As I look forward to this next chapter of life, I leave with confidence knowing that the devoted team in the Finance Department will continue their dedicated work to be prudent and efficient fiscal stewards to ensure the County’s strong financial future.”
The County will begin a search for an individual with the necessary combination of management skills and financial knowledge to serve as Commissioner of Finance. Those interested in the position can read the full job description and apply online at dutchessny.gov/jobs.
