Governor Togiola talks about Territorial Auditor position
Governor Togiola Tulafono said it has been very hard to hire a territorial auditor, because the requirements under the law are too restrictive.
Speaking on a public broadcast, Togiola said even with salary offers of up to $90,000 per annum, finding a qualified and interested territorial auditor who fits the requirements as set forth under local laws has been very difficult.
The territorial auditor post has been vacant since 2005 when George Webster was terminated by Governor Togiola.
According to the Governor, he will try to propose a bill that will amend the law regarding the qualifications for a territorial auditor, so there can be more options in recruiting someone for the position.
He said that the salary being offered locally pales in comparison to the money accountants are making off island. For example, he said he spoke to a junior accountant fresh out of graduate school who told him that he was making about $150,000 per year.
According to the Governor, he will seek financial assistance from DOI to help pay for the services of a territorial auditor.
Under local law, the territorial auditor must be a person experienced and competent in governmental auditing, financial management, or government operations and budgeting. In addition, the territorial auditor shall be a certified public accountant or a certified internal auditor holding a current certificate from any state of the United States.
It is the governor who appoints the territorial auditor who is then subject to Fono confirmation. The territorial auditor serves a four-year term from the date of his appointment and no person shall serve as territorial auditor for more than 8 years, consecutive or not.
According to Togiola, a territorial auditor will ensure proper documentation in all areas of the government, as well as ensure that all finances are appropriately accounted for.
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