MOUNT VERNON — Mount Vernon City Auditor Terry Scott announced his resignation at Monday’s City Council meeting. His resignation will be effective Sept. 6.
“When I look at the members sitting here in this semicircle, I realize that you are all younger than me,” Scott told council members.
Scott remembered the first day in March 1995 when he entered his office.
“I was pleasantly surprised when I discovered a sticky note in the middle of the desk with a little note that said number one: The state inspectors will be here tomorrow.”
“Secondly, nothing has been done. And that is a huge undertaking,” he said.
“Coming from a public accounting background and not being so familiar with government processes, this is a real revelation.
“Ladies and gentlemen of the Council, Mr. Mayor and of course the entire community, it has been an honor to serve you as auditor for 30 years.”
Scott said that as Mount Vernon’s longest-serving city auditor, it is time to reflect on the 29 Government Finance Officers Association Certificates of Achievement and 20 Ohio Auditor State Office awards he has received during that time.
“It’s very rewarding and enriching to be able to stand in front of you and say I did my best. Now someone else has the chance,” he said.
“Thank you, God bless you.”
Reappointment procedure for the city auditor
Knox County Republican Party Chairman Fred Dailey said he will review the Ohio Revised Code and consult with Knox County Attorney Chip McConville about filling the auditor position.
“As far as I know, the mayor can appoint someone for a short period of 30 days,” he said.
“Ultimately, the (Knox County Republican) Central Committee will review and consider candidates for this position.”
The Central Committee will invite the candidates for interviews after verifying their professional qualifications and voting behavior and clarifying legal aspects.
The Central Committee will then formally appoint a candidate. If the selected candidate chooses to continue serving as Auditor, he or she will be required to run for re-election for the regular four-year term in 2025 and 2027.
“Terry has provided outstanding service over the years and we wish him the best,” Dailey said.
