VOTE411 Voter Guide

The Chippewa Township Fiscal Officer is an elected official responsible for the township s fiscal health, including managing accounts, recording Board of Trustees proceedings, processing payroll, paying bills, preparing financial statements, and ensuring compliance with state law.The Fiscal Officer maintains accurate records of all transactions and accounts, serves as the liaison to the Ohio Auditor of State and county officials, and must complete mandatory training in fiscal integrity.Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Record-Keeping: The Fiscal Officer keeps an accurate record of all township accounts, transactions, and proceedings of the Board of Trustees.Financial Management: This includes paying bills, processing payroll, receiving revenue, and preparing the township s annual financial statements.Budget Oversight: The Fiscal Officer plays a role in drafting budgets and controlling spending to ensure financial best practices are followed.Liaison: They serve as a contact for the County Fiscal Officer and the State Auditor s Office.Legal & Reporting:They must comply with Ohio Revised Code requirements for fiscal duties.The Fiscal Officer files a bond for the faithful performance of duties.They notify the Board of Elections of any vacancies in elected township offices.Compliance & Training:Fiscal Officers must ensure their entity s financial statements are accurately prepared.They must complete required initial and continuing education courses to ensure fiscal integrity, according to the Ohio Auditor of State.Relationship with the Board of Trustees:The Fiscal Officer is an elected official, independent of the Board of Trustees, but must work closely with them.While the Trustees hold the legislative authority, the Fiscal Officer handles the financial and record-keeping aspects.The Fiscal Officer is responsible for the functions of their own office and is not required to be a personal assistant or secretary to the Trustees.