

Why We Need CFO Arthur Watts
ARTHUR WATTS, CFO
Watts Cut Administrative Costs, Reduced Staff and Closed Offices
The central office budget was reduced by $2 million. Watts reduced MPS central office expenditures to 3 percent. Personnel were reduced, offices were consolidated, and a school was closed to combat inefficiencies. New systems were established to collect and track all monies entering and leaving MPS programs.
Watts Delivered the First Balanced Budget in 20 Years
For the first time in two decades, the Montgomery Public Schools has a balanced budget with a surplus under this leadership team. This is a significant financial achievement after years of mismanagement.
Watts Provided Crucial Leadership During State Intervention
As the chief financial officer brought in during the state intervention, he played a vital role in the financial improvements seen under Dr. Brown's tenure, rooting out fraud waste and balancing the system’s budget for the first time in two decades. Because of this financial success, Montgomery County Schools were released from state intervention.
Watts Stopped Fraud and Financial Mismanagement
Watts uncovered and helped highlight instances of financial mismanagement that resulted in indictments and guilty verdicts against some principals, assistant CFOs, and vice principals. Watts has brought financial accountability, openness and transparency to the taxpayers of Montgomery, ensuring that our tax dollars are used efficiently and effectively for our children.
Watts Brought Financial Stability to Montgomery County Schools
By eliminating waste, fighting fraud, balancing the budget, and creating financial surpluses, Watts has brought financial stability to Montgomery County Schools and instilled a sense of confidence in our community. His actions have placed Montgomery County Schools on a stable financial foundation, allowing for future growth and success of the school system.
Watts Launched Pay Portals.
Watts led the implementation of portals so families can pay fees electronically, minimizing theft and simplifying the process for parents.
Watts Career Successes
Watts was Birmingham’s chief school financial officer for 13. Years. Before that, Watts worked more than four years as the chief financial officer for the Wilcox County Board of Education after the state took over management of the school system. Watts also spent four years of his career in the private sector working as an accountant. He has a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a major in accounting from Barber-Scotia College in Concord, North Carolina.