New York, NY – New York City Comptroller Scott Stringer has issued a letter to ThriveNYC Senior Advisor and Director Susan Herman expressing concern over the lack of clarity in the $850 million program’s spending and purpose.
ThriveNYC continues to have a widespread reputation for lacking accountability. With issues mounting regarding the way the organization is spending money, New York City Comptroller Stringer has issued recommendations to improve accounting, transparency and accountability. The Comptroller has reviewed ThriveNYC records, finances and program outcomes. Based on audits the Comptroller
Comptroller Stringer has urged ThriveNYC take concrete steps to improve the program’s effectiveness so the public’s confidence can be restored and taxpayer dollars reach communities in need.
“Providing comprehensive mental health care must be a critical priority for our City, and I commend the City for prioritizing an issue that for too long has been neglected, and working to reduce stigma and to help New Yorkers access the care they need. But the provision of these services cannot come at the expense of transparency and oversight, and without the public’s trust that these dollars are being spent effectively, the program cannot achieve its goals,” said Comptroller Stringer. “I am urging the Office of ThriveNYC to follow these recommendations to ensure public confidence in the integrity and efficacy of these programs and to provide comprehensive mental health care to our communities in need.”
Among the 41 ThriveNYC initiatives presented in the updated budget provided to the Comptroller’s Office in March, only 12 reported an outcome or completed goals. Internal tracking remains spotty. Updated and timely accurate information needs to be posted on the ThriveNYC website.
The Comptroller has noted that the leadership of ThriveNYC must demonstrate a clear definition of the program’s purpose and criteria, It needs to clarify its place within the larger framework of the City’s mental health services.
