January 8th, 2026 National News
Washington Co., Mo. (KFMO) - Government operations in Washington County are under review as Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick announces the start of a regularly scheduled performance audit.
According to the Missouri State Auditor’s Office, the audit officially began Tuesday, January 6, 2026, and will examine multiple county offices to evaluate financial and operational practices.
Auditor Fitzpatrick says the review is intended to promote transparency, accountability, and efficiency in county government, while also reducing the risk of fraud. He encourages residents to contact the State Auditor’s Office Whistleblower Hotline if they have information that may be relevant during the audit process.
The last full performance audit of Washington County was issued in 2018, when the county received an overall rating of “good.” That report included recommendations for improvements in several county offices. More recently, the State Auditor’s Office released an audit of the Washington County Collector’s Office in 2024, which resulted in a “poor” rating. That audit detailed questionable decisions by the former collector, ultimately leading to her removal from office and the filing of criminal charges.
The current audit will continue over the coming months, with findings to be released once the review is complete.