Accountability in local financial reporting is fundamental to building public trust and Janet Thompson understands the importance of maintaining that trust. When political accusations surface, she does not take it lightly. But when those accusations are made by an opponent twenty days before the election, the accuracy and motivation of the accuser is in question.
A press release, issued by her opponent, cited a complaint made by a “whistleblower” to the State Auditor’s office regarding the management of sales tax dollars by the Boone County Commission, including an assertion that fund balances were being hidden from the public and that the amount of money going to the Children’s Services Fund exceeds “the amount needed.”
As verified by the County Auditor and reported by the Columbia Missourian, the accusations are without merit. The financial information for the 911 and Emergency Management Fund is available online to everyone in the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, and the annual county budget (also available online) details how all funds are allocated, including the Children’s Services Fund.
Slow to criticize, but fiercely loyal to Boone County’s children and families, Janet does not take these accusations lightly. “This is yet another bomb throwing effort by three candidates for office who have no understanding of the issues nor an interest in obtaining real knowledge. Their interest is clearly political, not substantive.”