Mayor Nominates Dondlinger as Chief Financial Officer

Mayor Nominates Dondlinger as Chief Financial Officer

Published on November 13, 2024

Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird today announced her nomination and intent to appoint Joe Dondlinger of Lincoln as the next Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for the City. The CFO serves as Director of the City Finance Department. Dondlinger is currently the CFO for Apace and has more than 10 years of experience in government budgeting and finance. Dondlinger would start December 10, following approval by the Lincoln City Council.

Dondlinger replaces Lyn Heaton, who served as City Financial Officer from June 2022 until July 2024. Former City Budget Officer and Finance Department Director Steve Hubka has served as Interim Chief Financial Officer since July.

"As we looked to fill this this important leadership position, Joe Dondlinger's experience in public sector financial management, commitment to fiscal responsibility, and ambition for organizational excellence stood out," said Mayor Gaylor Baird. "Joe's background will position the City to maintain its top financial ratings that support our ability to provide great services to the residents of Lincoln."

Before taking his position with Apace in 2021, Dondlinger served as Deputy Director of Finance and Program Integrity, Division of Developmental Disabilities for the State Department of Health and Human Services. Other positions with the State include Financial Officer for the Division of Developmental Disabilities and Financial Services Program Analyst for the Operations Division.

He has three degrees from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln: a master's in business administration and bachelor's in economics and chemistry. He currently holds Certified Management Accountant and Certified Fraud Examiner designations.

"I am deeply honored to serve the people of the City of Lincoln and to contribute to advancing the Mayor's priorities. The Finance Department's commitment to excellence in financial reporting and budgeting is inspiring, and I am humbled to join such a dedicated team," Dondlinger said

The Finance Department provides service related to City finances for City residents and to internal departments that is consistent, reliable, and timely. The Department has seven divisions: Accounting, Administration, Budget, City Clerk, City Treasurer, Information Services, and Purchasing.

For more information, visit finance.lincoln.ne.gov.