I am seeking your vote to again serve as your National Treasurer of the Chief Petty Officer Association (CPOA). One of the most important positions within our Association, the Treasurer’s primary duty is as the Chief Financial Officer, overseeing the management of the CPOA’s annual budget, and providing sound financial guidance to the National Board of Directors and the National Office staff.

 

During my previous three terms serving as the CPOA’s National Treasurer (from May 2012-August 2021), I employed my experience as a Storekeeper/Budget Analyst to produce accurate drafts of the CPOA’s Annual Budgets for consideration at our National Conventions. I was fully engaged with the budget process, providing timely updates and reports on the fiscal well-being of our Association. I provided our Board of Directors with data about how proposed budgets were generated, and further ensured our Board Members had the information necessary to respond knowledgeably to members’ budgetary questions. My input during the selection and implementation of our new accounting software helped to ensure much needed financial oversight and transparency. I oversaw the transition to our Association’s new accounting firm, guaranteeing proper oversight of our financial processes and ensuring that the necessary checks and balances were in place.

 

Beyond my service as our previous National Treasurer, I have been actively involved in the CPOA on a Chapter level since I was advanced to Chief in 2004; Galveston Chapter (2004-2005), Hawaiian Islands Chapter (2005-2008), Lone Star (formerly Galveston) Chapter again (2008-2013) where I served as President, VP & Treasurer, Low Country Chapter (2013-2015), Hampton Roads Chapter (2015-2017), Lone Star Chapter (2017-2021) & Mobile Chapter (2021 – current). I was also honored to be made the 37th CPOA Gold Lifetime Member in August 2023 and currently serving as the Treasurer of the Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer Foundation.

 

I am dedicated to making a positive impact on our Association. If re-elected as National Treasurer, I will continue to work hard to protect our Association’s assets by reducing expenses and recommending improvements to our financial processes and functions. I would be honored to have your vote so I can continue to serve.

 

Yours in Service,

 

CWO4(F&S) MARK T. TAHTINEN