Spokane County commissioners on Jan. 21 discussed a bill originating in Thurston County that would modify several duties of county auditors and could, as written, be read to require the county auditor to prepare the county budget.

County legislative staff noted statutory language and punctuation in Revised Code of Washington 36.40.040 may create ambiguity: one reading omits a comma and could be interpreted to place budget-writing authority with the auditor rather than the current practice-managed budget office. Staff recommended commissioners ask the county's legislative team to seek an amendment clarifying the statute to preserve the county's existing budgeting process.

Why it matters: The bill could shift administrative responsibility and authority for budget preparation and some other duties to the county auditor. Commissioners and staff described risks and potential unintended consequences — including a change in internal roles, added liability, and confusion during transitions in counties that recently moved to five commissioner seats — and suggested engaging with the bill sponsor to craft clarifying language.

What staff will do: County legislative staff said they will seek to contact the county auditor for input, meet with legislative colleagues, and work toward an amendment that preserves current practice. The bill was noted to have a hearing scheduled on Jan. 23; staff asked for direction that the county not take a blanket opposition but instead pursue language to maintain the status quo if that is the board’s preference.

Ending: Commissioners asked staff to protect Spokane County’s current budget process and to return if the bill is scheduled for a hearing or if the county auditor has objections or wishes to join amendment negotiations.