EPHRATA — As Grant County prepares for the Nov. 3 general election, voters will decide who will lead the county auditor's office through the challenges of a growing population and increasing demands for public services. The elected auditor oversees elections, licensing, recording services and public records while managing a staff responsible for serving residents across the county. 

The Columbia Basin Herald posed a series of questions to candidates Shannon Falstad and Darci Homesley about their priorities, leadership philosophies and plans for the office. Their responses are being published as a five-part Q&A series leading up to Election Day. 

For the second installment, candidates were asked: “The auditor's office oversees elections, recording services, licensing and public records. Which of those responsibilities do you believe needs the most improvement in Grant County, and why?”  

Ballots must be postmarked or placed in an official ballot drop box by Nov. 3. Voters can verify their registration status and find election information at VoteWa.gov. Grant County voters with questions can also contact the county elections office at 509-754-2011 ext. 2704. 

Homesley: I would first add an important responsibility to that list: Accounting and financial services are also major functions of the Grant County Auditor’s Office, and I believe Accounting is the area most in need of attention right now. From my observation, Elections, Recording, and Licensing appear to be operating effectively. My concern is the Accounting Department. 

Over the past couple of years, there have been increasing challenges with county departments and outside districts receiving timely financial information needed to prepare accurate budgets, monitor expenditures, and maintain financial accountability. Recent leadership and staffing changes have made that situation even more challenging. New employees need experienced leadership and the tools and support necessary to succeed. 

Accounting is not simply a back-office function. Its work touches virtually every county department and affects the County’s ability to plan, budget, manage operations, and account for taxpayer dollars. When financial information is not timely and reliable, departments cannot make informed decisions or responsibly manage public resources. During this period of significant challenge and transition, experienced financial leadership is especially important to restore stability, strengthen processes, and support the employees doing the work. 

Falstad: The one department not mentioned is the accounting department, which is currently in the process of implementing a new accounting system. Implementing a new system is a significant undertaking, and it also presents an opportunity to improve processes, efficiency, and services. I believe that if you want the best for your employees, the County, and the residents, you should always be looking for ways to improve - not just one department, but all departments. Continuous improvement requires listening to employees, collaborating with other departments, and understanding the needs of the public.