Accounting and Finance

Location:
Washington County Law Enforcement Center
15015 62nd Street N
Stillwater, MN  55082

Telephone: 651-430-6030
Fax:       651-430-6060

Harley Will - Director

The Accounting and Finance Department is responsible for a variety of financial functions and is organized into two units, the Accounting Services Unit and the Finance & Reporting Unit. The department consists of the director, two unit managers and approximately 13 employees.

Our mission is to support county operations by establishing and maintaining systems of financial management consistent with generally accepted accounting standards, regulatory requirements, and best practices for governmental organizations.

These systems strive to incorporate the proper internal controls and provide the county with the ability to record financial activities, to disburse and receive funds, to report financial status and performance, to manage assets and liabilties, and to support financial planning and forecasting. Our objective is to deliver these services in an accurate, timely and efficient manner to support the needs of our residents, managers, clients, employees, vendors and regulatory agencies.

The Accounting Services Unit is primarily responsible for accounts payable, payroll, and collections functions. This unit is also charged with maintaining the accuracy and integrity of the technology supporting the payroll and benefit systems. Additionally, the unit provides collection support for delinquent fines, out-of-home placement, guardian ad litem fees, custody evaluation fees, benefit overpayments, and other delinquent accounts for several departments. This unit has an operational focus insuring the timeliness and accuracy of payments and the integrity of the documentation.

The Finance & Reporting Unit is primarily responsible for compiling financial reports, tracking assets, receipting and investing funds, issuing bonds, and coordinating annual audits. This unit is charged with maintaining the accuracy and integrity of the technology supporting the financial management system. It functions in a consultative capacity to evaluate accounting processes and provide financial analysis support.

Although organized under separate units, the Accounting and Finance Department provides integrated support systems for its customers. Tasks may cross over units and individual strengths may be leveraged to support departmental priorities. As such, it can be seen that a number of responsibilities described will actually be supported by individuals from both units. When this occurs, employees are conscious of the need for maintaining proper internal controls and segregation of duties.