For immediate release: Aug. 9, 2024
Media contact:
Whitney Bermes, Gallatin County Communications Coordinator
406-595-8963
whitney.bermes@gallatin.mt.gov
Gallatin County Auditor Erin Cox Resigns; County Commissioners Now Accepting Applications for Replacement
Erin Cox, Gallatin County’s elected auditor, has submitted her resignation, prompting the County Commissioners to begin the search for a qualified replacement.
Cox has served as the county auditor since her initial election in 2018, securing re-election for a second term in 2022. Before her tenure as auditor, Cox worked in the office for two years. She is stepping down to relocate out of state to be closer to her family. Her last day is effective Aug. 16.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with Gallatin County and am grateful for the opportunities and experiences I have gained during my employment here,” Cox said.
The Gallatin County Commission expressed their gratitude for Cox’s dedicated service, acknowledging her contributions to maintaining the county’s financial integrity.
“For the past six years as our elected auditor, Erin served the Gallatin County community and government with integrity and dedication,” said Gallatin County Commission Chairman Scott MacFarlane. “She promised the voters that she would work hard to improve and maintain our county government to the best of her ability, and the commission can verify that she did just that. We will miss her in the courthouse and know she will be successful in her next adventure.”
The commission is now accepting applications from candidates interested in being appointed to the vacant auditor position.
The auditor’s primary role is to safeguard taxpayer dollars by:
- objectively reviewing processes and procedures,
- assessing risks and risk management efforts,
- ensuring compliance with relevant laws and accounting standards,
- evaluating internal controls and recommending improvements,
- promoting ethics and identifying improper conduct,
- investigating fraud,
- assisting with preparation of the annual audit and communicating results to the county commission.
Responsibilities include reviewing all claims of the county on a weekly basis, performing internal audits of assets, reviewing internal policies and procedures, reviewing accounting transactions prepared by staff, and managing the county’s credit card program. The office also provides training as necessary for other county staff and provides guidance and advice on financial transactions.
The auditor supervises one internal auditor position and the office is physically located in the Gallatin County Courthouse at 311 W. Main St. in downtown Bozeman.
It is anticipated that the successful candidate will be appointed by the commissioners at their public meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 20 and will serve the remainder of the current term, which ends December 31, 2026.
Interested persons should submit a cover letter and a copy of their resume by email to commission@gallatin.mt.gov by 2 PM on Friday, Aug. 16. Questions about the position or this appointment can be directed to the same email address.
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