Why I'm Running

People have asked me why I'm running for Clerk/Auditor. Quite simply,
  1. I love our county,
  2. I am passionate about this type of work, and
  3. I know I can do a great job!

​I learned to appreciate service while growing up in a military family and I love to give back. I want to help my fellow citizens and contribute to this community that means so much to me and my family.

Duties of the Clerk/Auditor

The duties of the Washington County Clerk/Auditor can be summarized in a few basic points. I've listed those below, along with my thoughts and experience to help me accomplish those objectives.

Auditing Services

An audit is an independent examination of books and records to ensure compliance with established standards. The Clerk/Auditor is responsible for auditing the various county departments. I believe an auditor has a greater responsibility, and that rather than simply pointing out deficiencies, we should work together to help entities meet and exceed expectations.

Accounting Services

I have been a Certified Public Accountant in Utah for 17 years, and am a Chartered Global Management Accountant. With this background I have the unique education, training, and skill set to not only oversee, but to understand all the accounting functions completed in the Clerk/Auditor's office and in the various county departments.

Clerk of the Legislative Body

A clerk is a record keeper, and in Washington County the legislative body is the County Commission. The Clerk/Auditor records all Commission proceedings, votes, and resolutions, and keeps various other lists, reports, and records as required by law. If working as a CPA with government agencies has taught me anything it is the importance of maintaining complete and accurate records. 

Other Duties

The Clerk/Auditor oversees marriage licenses, oaths, and elections. These sacred activities demand nothing less than complete impartiality and integrity. My favorite quote is, "If you have integrity, nothing else matters. If you don't have integrity, nothing else matters." (Sen. Alan Simpson, WY) I vow to serve as Clerk/Auditor with complete fidelity and integrity.

My Philosophy

​My philosophy about service is simple.

​​Understand.  Serve.  Repeat.​
Understand. It has been said that "all of us are smarter than any of us." None of us can know everything we need to know about everything. But when we work together we can bring together that knowledge. I like to listen, to collaborate with others, and to gather pieces of the puzzle. My professional training as a Certified Public Accountant has helped me to learn how to analyze information and situations to find the best solution. As my understanding grows, I am in a better position to help.

Serve. With a greater understanding of the situation I am ready to address the needs by moving forward and making a difference. I've had a lot of opportunities to serve, and I know I still have plenty to give. I've listed below some of the service opportunities I've had that have helped me prepare for a position as our Clerk/Auditor.

Repeat. Move on to the next project or situation to start over and do it all again. 

My Experience

​I am a CPA and a small business owner. I have enjoyed the opportunities I have had over the last 20 years to make a difference, and enjoy giving back. Here are some highlights of the things I'm doing or have done in Washington County.
  • Certified Public Accountant in Utah
  • Chartered Global Management Accountant (designation of the American Institute of CPAs to indicate expertise in management accounting, or using accounting to assist in decision making)
  • Small business owner
  • Washington County Planning Commission, Vice-Chair, Commissioner
  • Doctors' Volunteer Clinic, Treasurer, Board Director
  • Olive Osmond Hearing Fund, Chief Financial Officer
  • ​Celebrity Concert Series at Dixie State University, Board Director
  • Washington County School District Foundation, Board Director
  • ​St. George Area Housing Authority, Commissioner
  • ​St. George Chamber of Commerce, Board Chairman, Treasurer, Director
  • The Family Support Center of Washington County, Board Chairman, Treasurer, Director
  • Precinct state delegate
  • Precinct county delegate

More About Doug

​Want to know more about me? Have a specific question? Just want to talk?
​Email me at dougsolstad@hotmail.com, ​or call or text me at 435-680-0497.