Mason County auditor and chair clash over reserve calculations and public messaging

A sharply worded public exchange between Mason County Auditor Steve Dunl and Commissioner Pat Tarzwell took place during the June 9 meeting as the auditor defended his reserve calculations and public statements.

Steve Dunl, Mason County auditor, told the board he reviewed finance committee materials and concluded the county’s reserve balances have deteriorated: “We’re spending more than we’re bringing in,” he said, citing treasurer data from a recent finance committee meeting. Dunl read portions of RCW36.22.010 to underscore the auditor’s statutory duties to review and make fiscal statements available to the public.

Commissioner Pat Tarzwell pushed back forcefully, disputing Dunl’s interpretation and saying the auditor was misleading the public. At times the exchange became heated and included interruptions and direct disagreements on whether specific statements had been made in prior meetings. Tarzwell argued his own analysis did not show the kind of reserve deficit Dunl described.

The dispute centered on methods of calculating reserve compliance with county policy and how to present those calculations to the public. Dunl said he relied on the treasurer’s spreadsheet calculations and that he would continue to report concerns about spending. Tarzwell said transparency required not circulating incorrect information and accused the auditor of misrepresenting the record.

Why it matters: The disagreement is about oversight of county finances and public trust in financial reporting. Differences in how reserves and policy compliance are calculated can change public messaging and, potentially, political pressure on budget priorities.

Next steps: No formal policy changes were made during the meeting. Commissioners continued with the agenda; the underlying finance figures and any revised public reporting are expected to be addressed in future finance committee and board discussions.