Just in - Jim Stith elected City Auditor

Guest blog by Steve Thornbury

With a vote by the Norwood Republican Central Committee, a major step was taken toward resolving the issues that have been raised over the last year regarding the office of Auditor of the City of Norwood. Norwood resident Jim Stith has been selected by the Central Committee to fill the new term of the Auditor’s position following the resignation of Auditor-elect Don Jones on December 31, 2007.

Mr. Stith presented a compelling case to the Committee that demonstrated his enthusiasm and firm grasp of the range of issues that the new Auditor will be facing in the days, weeks, and months ahead. Particularly impressive was Jim’s report regarding the two weeks that he spent as the interim Auditor in which he met with the Deputy Auditor and the staff to familiarize himself with the key issues and most pressing deadlines. His presentation to the Central Committee included an impressive three-page document listing the specific steps he was prepared to take upon assuming office. The discussion included consideration of issues raised in the most recent Committee of the Whole meeting regarding the need for professional assistance in municipal finance and budget planning. Mr. Stith has assured us that he is prepared to work closely with the current administration to achieve the goals established in the recent COW meeting.

While the vote this past Saturday marked the official beginning of his term, Mr. Stith’s election to the Auditor’s position will be announced on the floor of the upcoming Norwood City Council Meeting this Tuesday, January 22, 2008. A public celebration is being planned; details will be forthcoming.

I would like to the thank all of the individuals who stepped forward to put their names in consideration for the Auditor’s position. In particular, I would like to thank Cassandra Brown. As a candidate for the position, Casey presented extremely compelling arguments in the proceedings on Saturday and made the decision very difficult indeed. Her many contributions to our City, to our Party, and to her friends and family have made all who know her proud to call her a friend.

I would also like to thank all the elected members of the Central Committee as well as those on the Executive Committee who have taken the time out of their busy schedules, particularly through the recent Holiday Season, to meet and vote on the important decisions that have had to be made throughout. The democratic process is a remarkable tool that has served us well these past 232 years. It is a privilege to be part of it here in Norwood in 2008.

Steve Thornbury
Chair, Norwood Republican Party Central Committee