Colorado Springs City Council Approves Removing CPA Requirement for City Auditor Role

In a pivotal meeting held at Colorado Springs City Hall, city officials gathered to discuss a significant amendment to the qualifications for the city auditor position. The proposed ordinance, introduced by Myra Romero, the Chief Human Resources and Risk Officer, aims to remove the requirement for the city auditor to hold a Colorado Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license. This change reflects a broader shift in the understanding of the auditor's role, emphasizing leadership and strategic oversight over traditional accounting credentials.

Romero explained that the decision to amend the ordinance stems from a review of industry standards, which indicate that the CPA designation is not a necessity for internal auditors. Instead, the focus should be on skills related to governance, risk evaluation, and compliance. Notably, many major U.S. cities have successfully appointed auditors without requiring CPA certification, highlighting a trend towards valuing diverse backgrounds and experiences in leadership roles.

The discussion sparked varied reactions among council members. Councilman Hingeam inquired about the current staff's CPA qualifications, while Councilman Briseley praised the selection of Natalie Lovell as city auditor, emphasizing her leadership qualities over her accounting credentials. However, Councilman Donaldson expressed caution, referencing concerns raised by a former city auditor about the implications of removing such a standard, likening it to having a senior attorney without a law degree.

Lovell, who was appointed as city auditor in March 2025, defended the proposal, stating that the role has evolved beyond technical accounting to encompass strategic leadership. She highlighted that her office currently employs several CPAs and that the focus should be on the ability to deliver independent, risk-based assurance rather than merely holding a certification.

As the council deliberated, it became clear that this amendment could reshape the future of the city auditor's office, potentially attracting a broader range of candidates and fostering a more diverse leadership pipeline. The council's decision on this ordinance will not only impact the current structure of the auditor's office but also set a precedent for how qualifications are viewed in the context of evolving governmental roles. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore the implications of this change, ensuring that the city remains aligned with best practices in governance and accountability.