Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Local Government topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commissioners appoint Cheryl Park to fill vacant County Auditor post
Summary
After interviews and a brief closed-session review of qualifications, the Board of Commissioners voted 3-0 to appoint Cheryl Park to fill the Walla Walla County Auditor vacancy; the formal appointment resolution will be finalized at the next meeting and the appointee is expected to begin orientation.
The Walla Walla County Board of Commissioners on Monday appointed Cheryl Park to fill the vacant position of County Auditor following interviews and a short closed session to discuss candidate qualifications.
Commissioners reviewed applications and reference checks for three candidates submitted under state appointment procedures. Commissioner Clayton recommended Cheryl Daves based on prior government and enterprise-system experience, while another commissioner favored Park for her accounting and finance background. After discussion, the board voted 3-0 to appoint Cheryl Park to the Auditor's office; the formal appointment resolution will be placed on the next meeting agenda.
The board noted the appointee will serve the remainder of the current term and will need to stand for election in the upcoming election cycle if she chooses to continue in the post. Commissioners asked the new auditor to attend next week's new-hire orientation and to work quickly to transition into duties that include elections administration, payroll and accounting, recording and vehicle licensing.
Why it matters: The County Auditor's office is central to county operations, overseeing elections, licensing and financial functions. Commissioners emphasized finance experience and operational leadership as key qualifications for the role.
Next steps: The formal resolution will be presented at the next meeting to finalize the appointment and staff will arrange a transition and orientation schedule.
