DeJonge keeps comptroller spot

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - Incumbent Grand Rapids Comptroller Donijo DeJonge will keep her job after taking the race with about 57% of the vote.

DeJonge was appointed by city commissioners last year when long-time comptroller Stan Milanowksi resigned.

She was challenged by career politician Michael Sak.

So, what does the city comptroller actually do?

According to DeJonge, in "the city of Grand Rapids, it's the city auditor. It's the city accountant."

DeJonge has initiated a number of programs to make sure your tax dollars are being spent wisely, including boosting the auditing department. She's written a sort of citizens guide, explaining what the city does with taxpayer money as a way to make government more transparent.

"I have the experience, the background, the education to bring to this job," DeJonge said. "I think in less than a year's time I've proven that I can put things in motion that will help save the taxpayers dollars, either in the short term or over the long run."

DeJonge said that depending on the goals of the person in the office, it should not automatically be assumed to be a fulltime position.

"At a minimum, somebody could come in, simply sign some papers, go to a few meetings, and that's it," she said. "To me, being the watchdog, that's not very accountable. So I thought, why not cut that salary?"