The ongoing discussion surrounding the Burleigh County Auditor position has resurfaced, with calls for increased public involvement and transparency in the decision-making process.
The debate centers on whether the auditor should remain an elected position or transition to an appointed role, a topic that has been the subject of previous disagreements and a failed 2020 campaign to convert the position.
As a Burleigh County resident and former member of the Home Rule Charter commission, I've had a front-row seat to the ongoing debate surrounding the County Auditor position.
I've witnessed the frustrations, the disagreements, and the failed attempts to address the underlying issues plaguing this vital office. And now, I believe it's time for a new approach – one that prioritizes transparency, public input, and a genuine commitment to finding solutions that work for everyone.
Let's be clear: the current situation is not sustainable. The fact that someone unqualified can be elected to such a complex and demanding position is a serious concern. The high turnover rate in the auditor's office and other departments has created a lack of continuity, contributing to problems like mismanaged funds and hindering the county's ability to function effectively.
While I've been critical of the current auditor in the past, I recognize that the problems we face are not solely his fault. The auditor's office is overwhelmed, and the lack of support and collaboration from the commission has only made matters worse.
Below is my statement to the Burleigh County Commission last night:
Concerns about the County Auditor position:
The current situation, where someone unqualified can be elected, is concerning.
The job is overwhelming and requires someone with specific qualifications.
The high turnover rate in the auditor's office and other departments has led to a lack of continuity and issues like the mismanaged funds.
The current auditor's attitude and decision to sue the commission have created additional problems.
Suggestions for improvement:
The commission should have started discussing these issues publicly sooner.
The public needs to be involved in the process and understand the reasons behind any changes.
The idea of converting the auditor position to an appointed role should be put to a specific public vote.
A special election or another Home Rule Charter commission could be considered to address this issue.
The commission should be more transparent and communicate with the public in real-time about issues as they develop.
Issues Related To The 2022 Home Rule Charter Commission
There was an understanding in the 2022 commission that any changes to the auditor position would be put to a public vote.
The commission has the power to put the resolution on the ballot for a special election, but this should be further discussed.
The commission's role is to inform the public about issues and let voters know what is happening.
The overall goal is to restructure county government for better efficiency and outcomes for taxpayers.
Here is the actual audio from 2022:
It's time for a change. We need to have an open and honest conversation about the future of the auditor's office. Should it remain an elected position, or would the county be better served by an appointed auditor with the necessary qualifications and experience? This is not a decision that should be made behind closed doors. The public deserves to be involved in this process, and their voices need to be heard.
I urge the commission to take the following steps:
Increase Transparency: Be upfront with the public about the challenges facing the auditor's office. Share information openly and honestly, and don't wait for problems to escalate before addressing them.
Seek Public Input: Hold public forums, conduct surveys, and create opportunities for residents to share their thoughts and concerns. The more voices we hear, the better equipped we'll be to make informed decisions.
Explore All Options: Don't rule anything out. Consider all potential solutions, including restructuring the auditor's office, providing additional support and training, and even revisiting the idea of converting the position to an appointed role.
Work Together: Put aside personal differences and focus on finding common ground. The commission, the auditor, and the public all have a role to play in resolving this issue.
I believe that by working together, we can create a more efficient, effective, and accountable county government that serves the best interests of all Burleigh County residents. The time for action is now. Let's make our voices heard and demand the change we deserve.
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