2019 Controller's Annual Financial Report

Overview

This document serves as the cover and introductory section for the Controller’s Annual Financial Report for the County of Blair, covering the fiscal year from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2019. The report was prepared by the office of Controller A. C. Stickel IV.

Controller’s Message

In his message, Controller Stickel highlights the following key points regarding the office's performance in 2019:

• Software Implementation: The county utilized new financial software for its second year, which improved efficiency, transparency, and budget accuracy.
• Staffing Changes: Payroll Administrator Sondra Hoefer retired after 23 years of service. Consequently, payroll processing was moved to the Human Resource Department, though the Controller’s office still finalizes payroll and approves tax payments.
• Board Memberships: The Controller serves as a member of the Blair County Retirement Board, Salary Board, and Prison Board, acting as Secretary for all three in 2019.
• Audit Results: The number of material findings from external audits dropped significantly, from 46 in 2014 to just two in 2019.
• Audit Activities: The office completed audits of most Real Estate Tax Collectors, began auditing District Courts and lodging establishments for hotel tax payments, and collaborated with external auditors on other county offices.

Office Mission and Values

The document outlines the core principles of the Blair County Controller’s Office:

• Accountability: The controller is accountable to the citizens and acts as a steward of taxpayer resources.
• Compliance: The office enforces commonwealth laws and county ordinances, ensuring claims against the county treasury are accurate and legal.
• Non-Partisanship: While an elected position, the office is not political. It commits to treating all citizens, employees, vendors, and customers equally with respect.
• Core Goals: Accuracy, accountability, efficiency, and transparency.

Contact Information

The report lists the following contact details for the Blair County Controller:

• Address: Blair County Courthouse, 423 Allegheny Street, Suite 141, Hollidaysburg, PA 16648
• Phone: 814-693-3040
• Fax: 814-693-3197
• Email: astickel@blairco. org

Key Personnel Acknowledged

The Controller’s message specifically recognizes the contributions of the following staff members:

• Angela Wagner: Chief Deputy
• Marie Wentz: Accounts Payable Manager
• Kendra Gallina: A/P Specialist
• Wendy Long: Administrative Assistant and Retirement Coordinator
• Donny Wertz: Auditor/Accountant
• Tammy Leaper: Former 2nd Deputy Controller (departed early 2020)