Comments about ‘Corroon, county auditor differ on consultant's recommendation about budget process’

The Auditor should not have a daily input into the budget. The auditor's job is to periodically check on the records and make recommendations on improvements. Otherwise there is a definate conflict of interest.

Headline should read: County Auditor Protects His Turf

An historical background may be helpful. Remember why Peter was voted in almost 8 years ago? A culture of corruption, county scandal, hiring family, mugshots, trial, etc. should come to mind. When a Mayor has a legitimate check on power (budget projections) the policy objectives of that mayor are constrained by an independent office and then balanced by the legislative branch. Citizens of Salt Lake County wanted a "shared executive" form of government rather than the more efficient "Commission" form of govt. Budget projections, while a small check, provides for greater fiscal responsibility and constraint. The rating agencies appreciate the fiscal structure. How so? Salt Lake County has been awarded the coveted AAA AAA (triple - triple)from all 3 ratings agencies. To effectuate a political power-grab at this time places that bond rating in jeopardy and a very real cost (in interest payments - thus higher taxes) to the citizens of Salt Lake County.