Letter: St. Louis County Council Must Get Its Act Together on Auditor Position

In 2000, then-state senator David Klarich prefiled Senate Bill 760, legislation seeking to make the St. Louis County Auditor position an elected position, rather than an appointed position. He envisioned independent audits and conclusions that were not smeared by the interests of other elected leaders in St. Louis County government. The measure failed. Fast forward 25 years.

It has been widely reported in the media that St. Louis County is unable to hire a competent auditor. For several years, under the leadership of Councilwoman Rita Days, taxpayers have paid the price for the absence of a capable auditor, which led to salacious and costly scandals, and too few audits.

Having personally witnessed the difficulties of the last auditor, I implore the Council to seek the best candidates in a nationwide search. It was confusing why one bad auditor was replaced with another.

It is also puzzling why it took so long for the Council to act. Surely Council leadership read the articles over the course of many years. Surely the Council knows the buck stops with them, right?

Rather than using the same strategies, taxpayers deserve innovative approaches to securing a class act auditor. A Council that chooses not to do a stellar job in filling this important position should anticipate continued admonishment from County citizens. The County Auditor is an important position that ensures local government is functioning well.

Simply put, there must be a vigorous effort this time around. How many do-overs will this Council need to correct previous mistakes?