Kristy L. Apprill is seeking a second full term as Jefferson County Auditor.
Because no Democrats filed for the seat, the winner of the Republican Party’s primary in the Aug. 2 election will be sworn in to the four-year term in January.
Apprill was first elected in 2018 after she was appointed earlier that year to fill a vacancy. She had served as the chief auditor, or the second-in-command, of the office for 16 years.
She will square off against political newcomer Michael S. Minicky in the Republican primary.
The Auditor is paid a salary of $86,120.
APPRILL, 46, of Festus is the incumbent Auditor. She has two sons. She earned an associate degree from Jefferson College, a bachelor’s degree in accounting with a minor in auditing and forensic accounting from Kaplan University and is pursuing a master’s degree in forensic accounting from Webster University.
Website/social media: Facebook: Apprill 4 Auditor
MINICKY, 59, of Festus is a self-employed business consultant and is retired from working for the federal government after 33 years. He has three children with his wife, Laurie. He earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from the University of Missouri.
Website: minickyforjeffco.com
What experience do you have (elected office, civic organizations, volunteer work, etc.) that might serve you well in this position?
Apprill: I have more than 22 years of governmental accounting experience, four of which I have served as County Auditor. Over the years, I have been involved in Boy Scouts of America and Civil Air Patrol as well as being involved in various school activities when my boys were in school.
Minicky: I have been involved in the Jefferson County community for more than 20 years. While chairman of the University of Missouri Jefferson County Extension Council, I worked through the budgeting process and helped manage appropriations received from the county. Serving on the Jefferson County Charter Commission equipped me with a strong working knowledge of the functions and interrelationships of county government. I was also strategic planning chairperson for the St. Pius X Board of Directors.
What are the auditor’s duties? Why are you qualified to carry them out?
Apprill: The Auditor assists the County Executive in the preparation of the county budget. The Auditor also monitors activity throughout the year to ensure that each department stays within its budget and ensure that each office is following policies, procedures and statutes pertaining to their office.
The office tracks every asset over $1,000, prepares annual audit reports and works with the external firm that performs the annual external audit. It also audits grants received by the county.
Minicky: The responsibility of the Auditor, as specified by the county charter and Missouri statute, is to ensure proper financial accountability and transparency of tax dollars and assets. I have more than 30 years of experience working with federal government financial management systems, have overseen county-appropriated budgets and ensured proper accounting practices for my small business. I have listened to the concerns of current county officeholders and residents and will make the office more responsive. I look forward to bringing a fresh perspective and approach.
Why should voters elect you to this position? List your goals, if elected.
Apprill: I have the practical experience and the education to perform the duties of this office. I have been in governmental accounting for more than 22 years and I absolutely love my job. This position is not about politics but ensuring that the taxpayer dollars are being spent wisely and efficiently.
My goals will be to implement a fraud, waste and abuse tip line; continue the evaluation of current policies and procedures and work with departments on revisions; and to create a financial dashboard on the county website that will provide additional information.
Minicky: I will ensure participation in the state’s Show-Me Checkbook program, which makes all county expenditures public. I will invite the County Council to participate in the budget process and will also make sure the county’s distribution of ARPA funds is transparent. I will establish a countywide fraud, waste and abuse hotline. I will replace the county’s outdated financial management system. I will ensure the office works effectively with other departments. I will provide customer service training to all employees of the office and will welcome residents holding me accountable to accomplish these goals.