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Pocono News Section
New Luzerne County Controller Takes Office
New Luzerne County Controller Takes Office - Monday, January 4, 2010 at 5:40PM EST
Reported by: Mike Trim
Monday, Jan 4, 2010 @ 05:40pm EST
WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY -- Luzerne County controller Walter Griffith was sworn in Monday morning. The outspoken taxpayer advocate admits, it's going to take a while to sink in.
"You've been on that side of the podium and you've been able to shoot bullets over the bow and hope that they hit your target. Now you're on the other side, somebody can shoot bullets at you and you have to be able to take those bullets,Ó said Griffith.
For years, Griffith has openly criticized county government at commissioner meetings. He's asked for accountability amidst a sweeping federal corruption probe, and now hopes to be part of the solution.
As controller, Griffith says he'll get to work immediately, auditing every county office, "All of those things that have been set aside because the controllerÕs office had been so busy with all these corruption issues. Digging paperwork up for FBI,Ó said Griffith.
The sheriff's office came under fire last year after time sheets weren't filled out properly. The prothonatary's office is apparently missing money right now.
Other than putting employees and offices under the microscope, Griffith has other goals. He wants to find new revenue to help wipe out county debt.
He says he's confident he'll work well with the commissioners he once criticized. Griffith said, ÒI really think we can get it done. I'm looking forward to the next four years together with the people of this government making things change for the better. I think it's a great day for the county." | |
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