By Howard Packowitz
BLOOMINGTON – Some leading Republicans believe a new McLean County Auditor is needed even though the incumbent is also a Republican.
Trisha Malott announced Wednesday she’s running for the position in the March primary, challenging Auditor Michelle Anderson, who told WJBC News she plans to run for re-election.
Anderson has been at odds with County Treasurer Rebecca McNeil over bookkeeping methods, causing the county to fall behind in paying bills.
Malott is McLean County’s Behavioral Health Coordinating Council Supervisor. Malott said she also has vast administrative experience in the public and private sectors.
“I have a proven track record of collaboration. The auditor’s office is only one piece of the financial equation for the county. That one piece of the equation though can be led with a collaborative spirit to partner with county leadership for efficiency in the financial process, while being a good steward of taxpayer dollars,” Malott said.
According to Malott, the auditor’s office has received too much media attention lately.
“The issues of the auditor’s office generally, probably should not make it to the media. In many ways, it should be an office that is kind of low-lying with regards to focus being on it,” Malott said.
Five Republican McLean County Board members attended Malott’s campaign announcement. They are Catherine Metsker, William Friedrich, Jacob Beard, Susan Schafer, and Lindsay Bloomfield.
Board member Jim Soeldner, the Finance Committee chair, said he’s backing Malott, but did not attend Wednesday’s event.
McLean County Clerk Kathy Michael, State’s Attorney Don Knapp and Sheriff Jon Sandage were also on hand. Sandage described auditor’s office operations as “troubled.”
“We had issues with vendors not being paid. We’ve had issues of just plain collaborating and partnership,” said Sandage.
“The auditor’s office (has) huge responsibilities, and requires a level of maturity. Right now, we don’t feel like we’re getting that,” the sheriff said.
Malott said her background is in economics, and she claims to have a passion for math, numbers, and solving problems.
It’s Malott’s first run for political office.
The winner of the March primary is likely to face former Bloomington City Council member Rob Fazzini, who is the only Democrat in the race.
Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]
