GFOAT President’s Message
August 2025
Hello Finance Professionals,
As I assume the presidency of this incredible organization, I want to first acknowledge the exceptional work you perform daily in service to Texas communities under increasingly challenging circumstances.
Before I address our professional mission, I must recognize the profound tragedy that has struck our state. The devastating floods in the Texas Hill Country have claimed over 130 lives. Our hearts go out to all those affected by this catastrophic event. In times like these, we are reminded of the importance of coming together in support of one another. Many of you serve communities directly impacted by this tragedy, and your work becomes even more critical as these areas begin the long journey toward recovery and rebuilding.
We operate in a unique environment, characterized by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity, navigating an unpredictable fiscal landscape. Supply chain disruptions, inflation, workforce shortages, and evolving mandates create constant challenges. Yet you maintain the financial integrity that keeps our communities functioning. Your dedication demonstrates that when conditions are most uncertain, disciplined execution becomes most critical. You balance budgets amid fluctuating revenues, manage cash flow during downturns, and present complex fiscal realities to elected officials. This steady leadership is what Texas communities depend upon.
One of my primary missions this year is building the next generation of leaders. The challenges we face will only intensify, and we must ensure emerging finance professionals have both technical skills and leadership capabilities to guide their organizations through future uncertainties. My plan is to work with our executive director and board to establish a formal personal mentorship program within GFOAT. This initiative will pair experienced officers with rising professionals, creating structured relationships that transfer institutional knowledge and leadership wisdom. It is imperative that we cultivate the finance leaders who will shepherd Texas communities through future challenges.
The program will focus on preparing future generations of leaders in crucial skills such as decision-making under pressure, communicating complex concepts, building stakeholder relationships, and maintaining ethical standards. We will create frameworks for mentor-mentee relationships that extend beyond technical training to encompass strategic thinking and adaptive leadership. Your expertise in stewarding public resources has never been more vital. You are guardians of public trust, ensuring every tax dollar serves its intended purpose while maintaining transparency and accountability. Your engagement in this mentorship program is the most important aspect to making this work. Whether serving as a mentor or participating as a mentee, your involvement will strengthen our profession. Together, we will develop leaders who will serve Texas communities with distinction.
As we face both the immediate challenges of recovery and the ongoing uncertainties ahead, we must support each other as colleagues and as Texans. GFOAT stands ready to assist our members and their communities through these difficult times. Thank you for your continued service. In times of uncertainty and tragedy, you provide fiscal stability that allows communities to thrive and rebuild.
Best,
Blu Kostelich
President, GFOAT
Chief Financial Officer and Assistant City Manager
City of Waco