The position might not get the attention of some other offices in the Lawrence County Courthouse, but the role of auditor might be among the most important when it comes to the fiscal stability of the entire local government.

Essentially, the individual holding this elected office is the chief financial officer for the county. It is the auditor’s responsibility, among other things, to ensure that the county knows exactly where every dollar is coming from and where every one is going.

This role will be more important than ever as Lawrence County continues to face rising expenses and shrinking revenues.

Voters have two strong candidates to choose from Nov. 2, with both candidates qualified to take over the post held by Ray T. Dutey for more than 25 years.

Republican Jason Stephens brings to the table his background as a certified financial planner and a hands-on county commissioner who managed the budget and other economic issues. Democrat Stephen Dale Burcham is a certified public accountant, the current county treasurer with a background in government finances.

Based on his credentials and his clear ideas on how the office could best serve the whole county, Burcham is the right man for the job.

Burcham has the ability to hit the ground running, determining if infrastructure and software needs to be improved. He has done this in the treasurer’s office and would be able to help lead this important county office.

Stephens has some unfinished business. Two years ago he was elected to the commission. The public entrusted him with the daunting task of helping lead the county through difficult financial times. Progress has been made, but the work is far from being completed.

Stephens has been there to help shape the vision for the county’s future and is among the best candidates to help the county reach its potential by staying at the helm of the commission. He also has a responsibility to do so. In another two years voters can weigh in on whether or not he accomplished the job they gave him.

Now, Burcham is the right answer for the position of county auditor. All his qualifications simply add up to be the best choice.