Auditor-controller lobbies for 3 new positions

EL CENTRO — Imperial County Auditor-Controller Josue Mercado on Tuesday asked the Board of Supervisors for three additional positions, but how the positions would be funded and what departments it would affect concerned the supervisors.

The cost for the three positions would be $213,000, with Mercado saying the additional positions would not just benefit his department, but the county as whole, and they would also assist in meeting its strategic objectives.

Mercado asked for two accountant auditor positions and one accounting technician for his department.

The supervisors were concerned the new positions would be added to the general fund.

“If you are adding an ( employee to a) department, at the end of the day it comes from the general fund,” said Supervisor Chairman Luis Plancarte.

Supervisor Jesus Eduardo Escobar said he would have a hard time supporting the addition of the three new employees.

“Your department plays a key role in keeping the finances in check, but the finances are not in check,” Escobar said. “I find it hard to approve this with them not being in check.”

Escobar also said that given the fact the county’s budget is tight, he could not support this while not doing the same for other departments.

“I feel uncomfortable adding staff,” Escobar said.

Mercado replied the money had already been allocated, though Escobar said at the end of the day funding positions, like these, will cost the county money.

“How are we going to pay them long term?” he asked. “This is coming from the public.

Supervisor Mike Kelley said he would support the positions as long as he is assured they are not being funded by any money from the general fund.

Supervisor Ray Castillo wanted the other departments who would be impacted to be contacted and to find out where the funds would come from.

Supervisor Ryan Kelley said there are two vacant positions, but because Mercado wants allocation for three positions, there would be a new cost.

“You are going to have to show us it is not going to be a new cost to the general fund,” he said.

The supervisors tabled the request and asked for this item to be brought back to the March 17 meeting.