HOLYOKE — Just six months into a four-year term, city treasurer Katherine Jackowski announced she will resign effective July 14 to become the treasurer-tax collector in Provincetown.
Jackowski said she could not turn down Provincetown’s offer, which comes with a higher salary and room for career advancement. She stated that she passed up previous job opportunities to remain in Holyoke.
She currently earns $85,000 plus a $3,000 retirement stipend annually. Her salary in Provincetown will be $103,000 per year.
“I was given the opportunity to have a lot more career growth potential and certainly significant financial incentives,” she said. “I’ve decided to leave the City of Holyoke, and I’ve been there 11 going on 12 years. I feel somewhat stuck, and there’s not much growth potential anymore.”
She added the new position “fell in her lap,” and a recruiter approached her. She was interviewed by Provincetown’s finance director.
The Cape Cod community is managed by former Mayor Alex B. Morse, who accepted the Provincetown post in April 2021. As Holyoke’s mayor, he had appointed Jackowski the city’s acting treasurer shortly before his departure.
Jackowski hashed out a hybrid arrangement with Provincetown, allowing her to work remotely in Holyoke, where she owns a home.
“I got to a point where I kept turning down better career offers because I feel a sense of loyalty for the city of Holyoke,” Jackowski said. “I’m very comfortable with Mayor (Joshua) Garcia’s vision, and what’s he’s been doing since he came in.”
Jackowski said she leaves the Treasurer’s Office in good shape and has confidence the staff will execute their duties.
She ran unopposed in the November 2021 municipal elections. She was serving as acting treasurer before her victory. She also held positions in the Tax Collector’s Office and acting City Auditor.
Sandra Smith resigned as treasurer in February 2021, citing health and personal reasons. Morse appointed Jackowski acting treasurer, stating she was the most qualified to lead the office until the November ballot.
Jackowski said she spoke briefly with Garcia about her intentions.
“I’m not moving, and I’m happy to help with the transition,” she said.
The Provincetown job starts July 26, according to Morse in an email.