Weighing candidates for auditor-controller

If ever there was a clear and obvious choice in an election campaign, it is in the local race for Auditor-Controller.

On the one hand, you have an individual who has repeatedly failed to meet statemandated deadlines for reporting, has cost the county hundreds of thousands of dollars in missed claiming, is the recipient of numerous votes of no confidence from multiple entities, has had numerous workplace hostility claims against her upheld by an independent investigation, and continues to espouse vague and unsubstantiated claims of fraud and mismanagement while offering no proof whatsoever. The vast majority of county department heads (13 of the 19 total) have even gone so far as to sign a letter stating that she has “failed to fulfill the duties and responsibilities of her position.”

On the other hand, you have Cheryl Dillingham, an individual who has a proven track record of successfully running the Auditor-Controller’s office without fanfare or drama, is respected by coworkers, subordinates, department leaders and managers within the county structure, and is endorsed by pretty much everyone who has worked with and for her.

It boggles my mind that there are some who continue to support the incumbent, despite the serious damage she has caused the county. I can only surmise that they enjoy the Kardashian-style of drama and turmoil she has brought to the office.

Cheryl is an outstanding candidate. A vote for her is a vote to restore much-needed trust, integrity and competence to that office.

— Karen Suiker, Eureka