|
Chamber of Commerce Luncheon
September 9th, 12 Noon
Speakers: Brian Sonntag, Washington State Auditor
The State Auditor's Office was established in the state's Constitution as part of the executive branch of state government. Washington citizens elect the State Auditor to four year terms.
It’s mission is to work in cooperation with audit clients and citizens as an advocate for government accountability. As an agency led by an elected official, the State Auditor's Office has the independence to objectively perform audits and investigations. Audits are designed to comply with professional standards and to satisfy the requirements of federal, state and local laws.
The State Auditor's Office has approximately 350 employees who are located around the state to deliver services effectively and efficiently. Approximately 30 percent of the staff are certified public accountants or hold other certifications and advanced degrees.
The audits look at financial information and compliance with state, federal and local laws on the part of all local governments, including schools, and all state agencies, including institutions of higher education. They also perform special investigations of fraud and whistleblower cases and referrals from a citizen hotline. In addition, they conduct performance audits of state agencies and local governments.
The auditor’s office takes it’s role as a partner in accountability seriously. It provides training and technical assistance to governments and has an extensive program to coordinate audit efficiency and to ensure high-quality audits.
Brian Sonntag was first elected State Auditor in 1992. Now in his fifth term as Auditor, Brian remains committed to ensuring state and local governments are accountable, accessible and responsive to citizens. Brian Sonntag has served in public office since 1978 and as an auditor since 1986. Before becoming State Auditor he served as Pierce County Auditor, a position also held by his father.
Brian serves as a board member of the Washington Coalition for Open Government. Brian also is a member of the state Productivity Board and co-chairs Public Service Recognition Week, an annual event showcasing the achievements of state employees.
Brian is involved in his community, serving on the boards of United Way and the Boys and Girls Club. He also volunteered for many years as a youth baseball and basketball coach.
Brian spent many years as a passionate, yet extremely average baseball player, and was an avid power lifter. He is a member of the Tacoma Athletic Commission.
Professionally, he holds the designation as a Certified Government Financial Manager from the National Association of Government Accountants. He also serves as a trustee on the Association of Government Accountants Academy of Government Accountability.
Date: Septeber 9th, 2010
Place: Community Center at Mercer View
8236 SE 24th, Mercer Island, WA 98040
Time: 12 Noon
11:45 Informal networking
Cost: $15 for members
$18 for non-members and members without a reservation
RSVP: Reservation deadline, September 7th at 4:00pm. RSVP via return e-mail or by phone, 206-232-3404
Please note: the Chamber bills for reservations made but not cancelled 24 hours before the event. |