Part Watchdog, Part Sleuth
Watchdog and sleuth. What a combo! Leah Anderson, the Republican Candidate for Minnehaha Auditor, gives us some detail on the how property tax requests are reviewed and authorized.
A large part of the county auditor’s job is related to accounting.
While there are many accounting functions in the auditor’s office, the most important is serving as a watchdog for property owners. The auditor reviews tax requests from county entities and ensures these organizations meet the criteria to impose a real estate tax. Then he/she confirms that the amount being levied is in compliance with South Dakota law. Verifying compliance with laws, codes, and regulations are common accounting responsibilities, so this part of the job would be a very good match with my experience.
The auditor also keeps county records and acts as a bookkeeper for county business. Some of the records include documents, books, and minutes from county commission meetings. In addition, the auditor is responsible for scheduling county commission meetings, preparing meeting agenda, following up on commission decisions through letters and memoranda, and preparing the county budget. The auditor also handles payroll for county employees.
Compliance, record keeping, and bookkeeping are things I have done many times in my career, so I would welcome the opportunity to use my 29 years of accounting experience combined with my love of people to make the Minnehaha County Auditor’s office more transparent and efficient.
Please make sure you vote Tuesday, November 8th!
Thanks, Leah