PASCO, Wash. -- Former Franklin County Public Works accountant Dennis Huston has been out of office for several months, but the accusation that he embezzled millions of tax payer money has prompted some changes. Franklin County Commissioners have two big tasks at hand, fill three vacant positions in public works and make some changes in how money is handled.
During Tuesday's meeting, Franklin County Auditor, Matt Beaton presented some options. Beaton recommended hiring a finance director to oversee the Public Works Accountant and the Accounting Assistant. As Auditor, Beaton would oversee the finance director.
"Right now, the accounting function, they have dedicated accountants that are located in Public Works that do public works accounting. And then we have the auditor's office function. There is no cross over. So the discussion was should there be cross over? Where should they be located? How should that look going forward?," said Beaton of the things that must be considered.
In the past, Dennis Huston was managed by his Public Works director, Tim Fife and Huston had the final say over invoices. Tuesday, Commissioners also decided to hire a public works director and a separate engineer. In the past, Tim fife, did the duties of both.
They will vote on the accounting department restructuring next week.
