Editor’s note: This article was updated on Aug. 27, 2024, at 8:45 a.m. to reflect that Terry Scott is retiring from the city auditor’s office, not resigning.
MOUNT VERNON — Mount Vernon City Auditor Terry Scott announced his retirement at Monday’s city council meeting. His retirement is effective Sept. 6.
“As I look across the members sitting here in this semi-circle, I realize all of you are younger than I am,” Scott told the council members.
Scott recalled the first day he walked into his office in March 1995.
“I was pleasantly surprised to see there was a sticky note in the middle of the desk with a small note that indicated number one: the state examiners will be here tomorrow.
“Number two, nothing has been done. And that is a major undertaking,” he said.
“Not being that familiar with the operations of government coming from public accounting, it’s quite an eye opener.
“Council members, mayor and certainly to the community, it has been an honor to serve as your auditor for 30 years.”
Scott said that as Mount Vernon’s longest-serving city auditor, it was time to reflect on the 29 certificates of achievements from the Government Finance Officers Association and the 20 awards from the Ohio Auditor State Office he received during that time.
“It is very rewarding and enriching to stand before you and say I did the best I could. Now it’s someone else’s opportunity,” he said.
“Thank you, and may God bless you.”
Reappointment process for city auditor
Knox County Republican Party Chairman Fred Dailey said he would review the Ohio Revised Code and consult with Knox County Prosecutor Chip McConville about filling the auditor’s position.
“It’s my understanding that the mayor can appoint someone,” he said.
“Ultimately, the [Knox County Republican] Central Committee will vet candidates and screen them for that position.”
Members of the Central Committee who live in Mount Vernon will interview the candidates after verifying their professional qualifications and voting records and checking for legal issues.
Those committee members will then formally appoint a candidate between five and 45 days after Scott’s resignation. To retain the unexpired portion of Scott’s term, the replacement would have to run in November 2025.
The replacement would run again in 2027 for the regular four-year term if he or she chooses.
“Terry served with distinction over the years, and we wish him the best,” Dailey said.
