Announcements

First, thank you for all of your work over the past several weeks. Because of the efforts of Washingtonians from every corner of the state and every sector of the economy, we have seen hopeful signs in our fight against this pandemic. While we are by no means done, I think all of us can feel a sense of pride in what Washington has accomplished so far.

Second, I want share some guidance and updates from the State Auditor's Office.

The most important advice we are sharing with all our audit clients in state and local government comes down to one action word: document.

The State Auditor's Office has been working hard to find solutions to accommodate statutory and regulatory deadlines governments face, in light of the current emergency situation in our state. In that effort we have reached out to Gov. Inslee, and received assurances from his office, so we can address one issue through emergency declaration.

As all of Washington responds to the threat of COVID-19, I wanted to reach out to our partners in good government and let you know some steps the State Auditor's Office (SAO) is taking related to our audits of state agencies and local governments.

The Budgeting, Accounting and Reporting System (BARS) Manuals for GAAP and cash basis governments have been updated and are available on our website at www.sao.wa.gov/, under “BARS & Annual Filing.”

Beginning in February, several phone numbers for the Office of the Washington State Auditor will change.

Here's what you need to know:

We believe it's important to stay in communication at the Washington State Auditor's Office. That's why we email you about audit reports, new resources and news you can use. But do you know how to get in contact with us?

The Office of the Washington State Auditor recently passed its external peer review, which is a rigorous independent examination of the Office's work conducted every three years.

SAO is proud to have passed all of its peer reviews.

“The national peer review team affirmed the excellent work our auditors do on the public's behalf,” Auditor Pat McCarthy said. “As independent auditors, we understand the value of an objective, outside review. And we are proud to advance the cause of government transparency by sharing these results publicly.”

Saundra Groshong, audit manager for our South King County team, has left SAO after 19 years of service. Groshong accepted a position as finance director at the City of Buckley. Saundra was a great leader for our Office, and she will be missed.

As it turns out, a lot.

On the public's behalf, the Office of the Washington State Auditor is on the trail of good government.