W
ashington County Commissioner Nick Sherman disputed an audit by Acting Controller Heather Sheatler, which revealed the county spent $122,877 on last month's Real Estate Expo. The event brought in about $71,000 from sponsorships and vendor fees, leaving a deficit of $51,586.

    The largest expense was a $30,000 payment to HGTV personality Hilary Farr for her speaking appearance, along with $1,805 for airfare, $1,566 for hotel stay, and $499 for chauffeured transportation. Other significant expenses included advertising ($23,021), event planning and marketing ($22,130), audio rentals ($14,751), and video commercials ($12,750).

    The audit also criticized the opening of a new bank account with unauthorized signers overseeing withdrawals and improper oversight of the account. Sheatler said the audit was necessary to ensure transparency in Washington County.

    Commissioner Larry Maggi praised Sheatler's audit and questioned the use of county funds for the event. However, Sherman and Commissioner Electra Janis disputed the findings, suggesting that Sheatler released the report prematurely to gain an advantage in her election campaign.

    The back-and-forth over the audit highlights a growing rift between the two Republican commissioners and Sheatler. The dispute also raises questions about Sheatler's ability to perform her duties as acting controller, with Sherman and Janis expressing concerns about her job performance.

    Sheatler is running for full-time controller in the May 20 primary against fellow Republicans Brenda Davis, Tony Jacob DeLost, and Pat Phillips.