Morton-Crum and Lewis face off for Boone County Auditor's office

Apr. 23—No Democrats are seeking major offices in the Boone County Primary Election on May 7, but there are four Republican races.

The Lebanon Reporter sent questionnaires to each candidate in a contested race and will publish their answers today and in coming days, starting with the race for Boone County Auditor.

Boone County Auditor Debbie Morton-Crum was elected via caucus near the beginning of this term. Former Lebanon Mayor Harold 'Huck' Lewis hopes to edge her out.

1. What is the most important aspect of the auditor's job and how would you fulfill that duty?

Crum: The most crucial aspect of the auditor's job is to ensure financial transparency, accountability, and accuracy within Boone County's governmental operations. As the current auditor, I will continue to prioritize this responsibility and continue to implement rigorous internal controls and best practices to safeguard public funds.

Lewis: Just as in any business, the most important aspect of the auditor's job is the monthly reconciling of the accounting ledgers and making sure that all information is accurate.

The auditor must be able to report balanced financials to the County Council and to the State of Indiana at any given time and especially during budget hearings. The County Council, Commissioners and other county offices depend on this to be able to develop and maintain a fiscally responsible and balanced budget. Likewise, the auditor is charged with keeping the real estate records up to date (deeds, plats and ownership transfers) to maintain accurate tax data and assessments. I pledge to fulfill these and other obligations of the office in a timely and professional manner, for the best interests of Boone County, always.

2. What changes would you like to see in the auditor's office and why?

Lewis: I believe there is a need for additional training of the auditor's staff. We need to cross-train team members to be more efficient in how services and information are provided to the citizens of Boone County. If I have the opportunity to be your next auditor, I will encourage the staff to participate in the many training opportunities presented by the State of Indiana and other associations like the Indiana Association of Counties. Another goal will be to improve the transparency of the offices' operation through better use of the county website and social media outlets.

Crum: I am committed to modernizing the office to enhance transparency, efficiency and accountability. This includes implementing updated technology, enhancing financial reporting practices, and promoting collaboration and communication with other county departments.

3. What do you think works well in the auditor's office and why?

Crum: Efficient management of financial records, adherence to regulatory compliance and timely delivery of reports are crucial aspects that contribute to the office's effectiveness. Providing accessible information to the public regarding budget allocations, expenditures, and financial audits instills trust in the county's fiscal management.

Lewis: Not being in the office, I really do not have any knowledge as to what is working well. However, with any business, whether in government or in the private sector, you need solid processes to eliminate mistakes and to reduce the variables that occur in the day-to-day operations, leaving little room for error. If elected, I will conduct a review of office operations and see what is working well and where improvements should be made.

4. What is the auditor's role in respect to relations with county commissioners and the county council?

Lewis: There appears to be tension between some office holders and the current auditor, and I believe this has been the case for quite some time. The County Commissioners and Council depend on the auditor for complete and accurate fiscal information. Those bodies are not able to make informed decisions on funding county operations without having an accurate accounting of our revenues and expenses. The auditor must prepare and process the claims submitted, receive bids for materials and projects, and reconcile all statements with the County Treasurer. I believe that we all need to work together as a team. When I was County Commissioner and Mayor, I worked to foster an atmosphere of teamwork between departments. We need open, continuous and frank communications that provide a "can-do" approach for Boone County.

Crum: The auditor serves as a vital link between these two entities, ensuring transparent and effective communication channels are maintained. The auditor also plays a pivotal role in providing financial oversight and accountability and also serves as the secretary of the board of commissioners, according to state stature. By working with commissioners, my goal is to provide comprehensive financial reports and analysis, enabling informed decision making that aligns with the county's fiscal objectives. Similarly the auditor's relationship with the county council is essential for budgetary planning and execution. I understand the significance of engaging with council members to develop realistic budgets that meet the needs of our community while adhering to fiscal responsibility.

5. Why are you the right person for this job?

Crum: Having served as auditor of Boone County for the past four years, I bring a proven track record of successes to the role. Building on the accomplishments of my tenure, I am uniquely positioned to continue driving positive change and further enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the county's financial operations. With a solid background in accounting and finance, through my experience prior to and during my time as auditor, I will continue my role as auditor with integrity, professionalism and a commitment to transparency and contribute to the prosperity and well being of all Boone County residents.

Lewis: I will bring 20 plus years of experience in local government to the office of Boone County Auditor. As a former county commissioner and mayor, I have an extensive background in budgeting, funding and overall leadership. In my former positions I sought to anticipate the demands of the office and avoid a "crisis management" environment by being proactive and working in close collaboration with the other stakeholders and the people of Boone County. I always started by evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the present team. I have seen too many new officeholders come in and let staff go. This is a poor way to start your first term in office. I pledge to bring this experience to the office of Boone County Auditor, and I respectfully ask for your vote.

For a complete primary candidate list, visit the website at https://boonecounty.in.gov/offices/clerk/election-information/.

2024 Primary Election sample ballots may be viewed online at https://boonecounty.in.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/INBOOP24_AllPcts_Infinity-SAMPLE.pdf.