County Charter Task Force Reviews Auditor Functions and Clarifies Roles Amid Duplication Concerns

During the recent Miami-Dade County Charter Review Task Force meeting, significant discussions centered around clarifying the roles and responsibilities of various county officials, particularly regarding auditing functions. The meeting highlighted the need to address potential overlaps and confusion stemming from the roles of the Clerk of the Circuit Court, the County Auditor, and other auditing positions within the county government.

One of the primary topics was the proposed changes to the charter that would revise references to the Clerk of the Circuit Court. Task Force members emphasized the importance of ensuring that the charter does not assign duties to constitutional officers that could lead to conflicts or duplications of services. This aligns with Amendment 10, which aims to streamline government functions and prevent redundancy.

Commissioner Moss raised concerns about the exclusive authority granted to the Clerk and the potential implications for auditing contracts. The discussion revealed that while the Clerk can assist with audits, there is also the option for the county to hire independent auditors. This distinction is crucial for maintaining clarity in the auditing process and ensuring accountability.

The meeting also touched on the need for clearer definitions of what constitutes an audit, as the term can encompass a range of activities from financial reviews to compliance checks. Task Force members agreed that simplifying the language and delineating the roles of the Clerk, the Comptroller, and the Inspector General would help avoid confusion for both officials and the public.

As the meeting concluded, members recognized the necessity of revisiting these topics in future sessions to ensure that the charter accurately reflects the roles of county officials and adheres to state laws. The ongoing discussions aim to enhance transparency and efficiency in Miami-Dade County's governance, ultimately benefiting residents by clarifying how their government operates.