By Brett Jones/Staff Writer
published Jan. 22, 2009

City Finance Director Brenda Wright will step down from her post at city hall Feb. 13, but she will not be leaving the world of municipal accounting.

Wright is returning to the Oklahoma City accounting firm she worked for prior to joining the city of Mustang — Crawford and Associates — as a financial consultant. Wright said Crawford only works with government entities, most of which are located in Oklahoma. The firm handles an assortment of activities for clients including writing annual reports, doing monthly accounting and conducting rate studies.

“I made a lot of great friends in Mustang and will miss the people I have worked with on a day-to-day basis and just throughout the year on various projects,” she said.

Wright said she was not looking for a new job, but officials with Crawford and Associates contacted her over the holidays and discussed an opportunity that she said was too good for her and her family to pass up. She said no other issues influenced the decision.

“Mustang is a great community and has great potential,” she said. “My hope is that it will continue to grow and reach that potential. The residential growth is here. I hope that the retail and commercial side takes off to be able to support the needs of the city.”

City Manager David Cockrell said the monthlong notice that Wright provided will allow for a smoother transition, and he has begun a statewide search for a replacement.

“She’ll (Wright) be difficult to replace, as she acted as my assistant city manager and was responsible for major projects outside of the finance department.” Cockrell said.

Wright started with the city of Mustang Oct. 1, 2001.

Sheila Cardwell, city controller, will serve as interim finance director.