CHICAGO - The Illinois legislative audit commission has formally launched its search for candidates to replace retiring auditor general William Holland.
The commission will accept applications for the appointed post through Aug. 19.
"We encourage anyone who is qualified for this important position to apply," state Sen. Jason Barickman and Rep. Robert Rita, co-chairs of the commission, said in a statement. "We intend to conduct a thorough search for the best person or persons to recommend for appointment."
The auditor general must be determined by the General Assembly to be experienced and competent in governmental auditing, financial management, or government operation and knowledgeable in the subject of state government, according to the constitutional requirements for the post.
A commission subcommittee will recommend finalists for the post and at least one candidate will then be recommended to the General Assembly for appointment. A three-fifths vote of the members of each chamber is required for appointment.
The auditor general is a constitutional officer charged with the audit of public funds of the state; he or she oversees a staff of 90 with a $30.7 million budget. The office reviews state agency spending and accounting with its powers extending to any area that receives state public funds. The office also audits the state's annual financial report prepared by the state comptroller and annually releases the overall net fiscal position of the state. Lawmakers can request special audits. The current salary is $154,127.
Holland announced in June his intention to retire at the end of the year after a 23 career in the position.
