East Central Reporter

In 2019, David Cruitt, the former County Board Chairman of Shelby County, signed a resolution that added several responsibilities to the County Treasurer's role. These duties included managing human resources tasks, overseeing health insurance for county employees, and maintaining accurate payroll records.

Despite concerns raised by the treasurer about potential payroll abuses and fraud, a forensic audit conducted on one department revealed significant discrepancies. The audit found over 11,808 hours were paid but not worked, which could be considered fraudulent. However, no action has been taken by the county board to address these issues or correct overpayments and underpayments identified in the audit.

In 2021, there was an attempt to outsource payroll from the Treasurer’s office. An email from Paylocity to former State’s Attorney Nichole Kroncke and former County Board member Davit Switts suggested behind-the-scenes discussions about shifting payroll responsibilities to another official. The email questioned whether Jessica Fox was aware of her potential new role in handling payroll.

Jessica Fox responded by clarifying that her office does not manage payroll and requested not to be involved in removing functions from another elected official's department. She stated: "The Shelby County Clerk/Recorder’s office does not do payroll... This request also puts the County Clerk as an elected official in a bad position."

Although the past board rescinded its decision to outsource payroll, a promised legal opinion on this matter was never provided by Kroncke. Confusion persists regarding who is responsible for handling payroll duties.

Local rumors have inaccurately claimed that it was at the treasurer's request to outsource payroll. However, Jessica Fox clarified: “The County Clerk’s office requests that the board seek another option for processing of payroll.”

As discussions continue around outsourcing options and departmental responsibilities, questions remain about transparency and communication within Shelby County's administration.