Press Release: Councilmember McDuffie Issues Statement on the Appointment of Dr. Fitzroy Lee to Chief Financial Officer of the District of Columbia

News Release — Ward 5 DC Council member Kenyan McDuffie

For Immediate Release: Tuesday, January 25, 2022

Contact: Narrean Marsden

Washington, D.C. — Today, Councilmember Kenyan R. McDuffie, Chair Pro Tempore of the Council and Chair of the Council Committee on Business and Economic Development, released the following statement on the appointment of Dr. Fitzroy Lee to Chief Financial Officer of the District of Columbia for the remaining unexpired term, ending June 30, 2022.

“Dr. Fitzroy Lee has served as the Acting Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the District of Columbia since October 4, 2022, filling the vacancy left by Mr. Jeff DeWitt. Dr. Lee has two decades worth of experience working in the Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO) and was the CFO and Chief Economist for the Office of Revenue Analysis prior becoming the Acting CFO of the District of Columbia.

Today my committee held a roundtable to consider the confirmation of Dr. Lee to complete the remainder of the current term.  While revenue estimates are strong and the latest reports show a return to pre-pandemic levels, many District residents and small businesses continue to experience the physical and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

I have worked with Dr. Lee for some time, both in his current capacity as Acting CFO, and prior. I have the utmost respect for him and know that he is a well-qualified, experienced candidate, with the knowledge and skills to execute this role. That said, a number of questions remain about approach to revenue estimates and physical impact statements, outstanding recommendations from the DC Auditors Office, and issues with the DC Office of Lottery and Charitable Gaming.

The confirmation and upcoming performance oversight processes provide an opportunity to take stock of the OCFO’s strengths and weaknesses. I look forward to further discussions with Dr. Lee about his vision for the agency under his leadership.”

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