Auditor's Office

The Auditor is the accounting and budget officer for Cole County. The Auditor has primary responsibility to provide accurate, timely, and relevant information to the public to promote county government openness and accountability, as well as ensuring county tax dollars are used lawfully and to prevent waste and misuse. The Cole County Auditor is an elected office with a four-year term. Mark Ruether has held this office since June 2, 2022.

Accounting / Budget Officer Duties

The Auditor is responsible for establishing and monitoring the accounting and budgeting systems of Cole County. The Auditor is responsible for maintaining the county’s accounting records and preparing the financial statements. The Auditor works with the county’s outside auditors to ensure the annual financial statements are prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. As budget officer, the Auditor is responsible for preparing and submitting a proposed annual budget to the County Commission and preparing all related budget documents and schedules.

 County Auditor Duties

The Auditor monitors compliance with state laws pertaining to county contracts, bidding, and purchasing. The Auditor establishes and monitors internal control procedures, reviews and approves all county expenditures, and monitors and evaluates the financial condition of the county. The Auditor also maintains records of all county property and conducts physical asset inventories. The Auditor’s duties and responsibilities are defined by state statutes in Chapter 55, RSMo.