Salt Lake County Treasurer K. Wayne Cushing to step down in January

After 14 years of balancing Salt Lake County’s finances, K. Wayne Cushing is preparing for a different kind of balancing act—one involving more fishing rods, golf clubs, and time with his grandkids. As he steps down from his role as Treasurer, Cushing shared his reflections on his career, challenges and achievements. His time in office was marked by efforts to navigate economic uncertainties, adopt new technologies, and improve financial management for the county.

Cushing’s decision to retire comes after a long period of service, during which he expressed satisfaction in his work and a readiness to allow new leadership to bring fresh perspectives. “I have enjoyed my 14 years as Salt Lake County Treasurer tremendously and no doubt will miss being a part of the county leadership team,” he stated. “I do feel it is time to retire and believe it is good to have new eyes and ideas periodically review the goals of our office.”

When Cushing took office, the county was emerging from a significant recession that had led to budget cuts and staff reductions across departments. He noted that many departments were operating under statutory minimums, but he sought to improve the county’s financial stability.

One of Cushing's initiatives was to improve the property tax collection rate. “One of the first things I learned was that our collection rate on property taxes influenced the amount that was billed in future years,” he explained. By ensuring that tax notices were delivered accurately, his office was able to raise the collection rate from 96% to 98%, resulting in substantial annual savings for taxpayers.

Cushing also prioritized raising awareness about Property Tax Relief programs. “Statutory minimum would require us to offer tax relief to those who apply with no requirement to advertise the programs,” he said. “Our office took every opportunity to advertise the various programs, including visits to senior centers, interviews with local media, and even a special insert with the valuation notice sent last year.” Through these efforts, more residents were able to benefit from available tax relief, especially seniors.

The Treasurer’s Office has multiple responsibilities, including billing, collecting and distributing property taxes, investing county funds, and administering tax relief programs. Additionally, Cushing was involved in key financial committees, including the Revenue Committee and the Debt Review Committee. 

“The treasurer is one of three rotating chairs to the Debt Review Committee, which reviews and makes suggestions to the mayor and council regarding any debt issuances anticipated by the county,” he noted. These duties required cooperation with other departments, something Cushing appreciated during his tenure. “I have enjoyed working with the other elected officials and the mayor’s finance team,” he said, “I have truly seen a ‘county over party’ atmosphere as everyone works for the common goal of serving our constituents.”

Throughout his time in office, Cushing navigated the county's finances through periods of economic fluctuation. He pointed to both challenges and opportunities that arose from changing interest rates. “The low interest rates that were prevalent in 2010-18 allowed the county to refinance much of its debt with significant future savings,” he explained, though those same rates also limited the revenue that could be earned on investments. When interest rates began to rise again, Cushing moved to secure longer-term rates, positioning the county for financial stability.

During his tenure, the Treasurer’s Office also introduced technological updates to streamline processes and improve accessibility for residents. “We made simple but effective changes to make it easier for those coming in to pay taxes or have a question,” he said. These updates included the introduction of an e-bill program and enhancements to the county’s website, which allowed taxpayers to access information, print past notices, and choose payment options. Cushing believed these changes not only improved efficiency but also made the experience more convenient for residents. “We check with those in line to make sure they have proper paperwork so we can get that to them prior to getting to the front of the line,” he said. 

As Cushing prepares to step down, he acknowledged that his successor will continue to face budgetary concerns and the need to balance efficiency with the office’s impact on residents. “There will always be budget issues and trying to keep the office efficient while focusing on our effect on our citizens,” he said. He advised maintaining a spirit of cooperation, which he regarded as vital to successful financial management in county government.

Reflecting on his career, Cushing hopes his legacy will be defined by his commitment to service and collaboration. “My goal has always been to be helpful in any way possible with other offices and departments in the county,” he said. “I have tried to leave politics out of decisions made, focusing on our responsibilities to the public. I hope my emphasis on going beyond our ‘statutory minimum’ duties when it benefits other offices and the public will be something I am remembered by.”

Though Cushing is stepping away from his role, he remains open to new possibilities, and he has not ruled out further contributions in public service or finance. “Very good question, one that I have postponed but now that it is here, I need to look at,” he said, reflecting on future plans. “Of course, there will be more fishing, golf and grandkids. I taught beginning accounting courses in the past and may investigate that, and there are some social issues that I want to focus on, particularly in the property tax relief for seniors.”

Cushing will leave office in January 2025, where Democrat nominee Sheila Shrivastava or Republican candidate Phil Conder hope to replace him.