Commissioners begin hiring process for new director post

Restructuring of Whitman County’s finance department came one step closer to finality Monday. County commissioners officially created an Administrative Director position under their authority to oversee county finances in conjunction with a companion position in the auditor’s office.

Creation of the job means the hiring process can begin. Help Wanted ads for the position will be posted in newspapers in Spokane, Portland and across the Puget Sound area.

“I know King County, they’re cutting back,” said Commissioner Pat O’Neill. “There might be somebody with exactly what we’re looking for.”

Commissioners also named candidates for a search committee to interview applicants.

On the list were Esther Wilson, the last employee of the defunct finance department, Commissioner Greg Partch, Human Resources Director Kelli Campbell, Treasurer Bob Lothspeich, Pullman Finance Director William Mulholland and Spokane accountant Elias Sirianio, the Spokane accountant who has been contracted to oversee accounting processes.

“He’s been working on the books for the last several years, he should be on the committee,” said O’Neill.

Starting annual salary for the position will be between $49,668 and $54,264.

Auditor Eunice Coker has yet to finalize the job description for the finance director that will work under her watch.