The selection process for the city auditor, a position elected by the city alongside the city clerk and city treasurer/collector, involved a examination of the candidates’ backgrounds and expertise. The city auditor holds a vital role, operating independently and reporting directly to the council. The committee overseeing the hiring process included several council members and city officials, tasked with making a recommendation to the full council.

Karen Butler emerged as a strong candidate during the interviews. She demonstrated a keen understanding of the auditor’s responsibilities, emphasizing her experience in compliance management and budget oversight. Butler shared insights from her previous roles, including her time in a healthcare setting that required strict compliance adherence, drawing parallels to the city auditor’s duties. Her inquiry into the scope of the auditor’s responsibilities within the city underscored her commitment to understanding the comprehensive nature of the position.

Throughout the interview, Butler highlighted her supervisory experience, recounting her leadership at United Way, where she managed a team and established a new department. Her approach to fostering open communication and building rapport with team members was noted, with Butler stating the importance of creating a work environment where staff feel comfortable asking questions. This aspect of her experience was particularly relevant to the city auditor’s role, which requires collaboration with various city departments.

The council discussed the city’s growth over the past decade, with Butler inquiring about demographic changes and their impact on city operations. A council member confirmed significant growth, referencing infrastructure developments such as a new elementary school and Gardner’s appeal as an affordable housing option.

Butler’s familiarity with auditing software and financial systems was also a point of discussion. She expressed proficiency in various financial software, although she acknowledged her lack of experience with specific municipal systems such as MUN software. Her proficiency in Excel and its use for data analysis and collaboration was noted as a valuable skill for the role.

Ultimately, the committee’s recommendation of Karen Butler for the city auditor position was met with unanimous support during the council meeting. The council’s decision to recommend her to the full council for a vote reflected confidence in her ability to take on the responsibilities of the auditor’s role.

In addition to the primary focus on the city auditor interviews, the meeting briefly touched on other matters, including the approval of minutes from previous meetings. This procedural aspect was swiftly addressed, with a motion to approve the minutes passing without opposition. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, which was unanimously approved.