Question 1: What are your qualifications to run for county auditor and why do you want to serve? (200 words max.)

Michael Howard
I hold a Bachelor's of Science in Computer Science from Westminster College of Salt Lake City with a math minor. I also hold an Executive MBA from Brigham Young University in Provo. My work experience is varied and encompasses both large and small companies. I was a Systems Analyst assigned to the Benefits division of American Stores Company, a Fortune 50 company. We actively accounted for $2.5 billion in assets and employed the necessary controls, processes and systems to efficiently do so.

I currently own and operate a small IT consulting firm providing systems analysis, process review, and project implementation to companies in the Summit and Salt Lake County areas. I have maintained these business relationships for many years and my clients trust that I have their best interests at heart. I have served as a Trustee for a 401(k) plan, as a board member and executive committee member for various local non-profits (Summit Land Conservancy and Friends of Animals). I currently serve as Chair of the Administrative Control Board for the Park City Fire District.
I feel my education and varied work expertise qualifies me to be county auditor.

Gary Shumway
My wife and I own property and have lived on both sides of the county. I am aware of the issues facing us. I have three Masters Degrees: an MBA (Finance), MA (Psychology), and MPH (Biostatistics). I am a member of The Institute of Internal Auditors. I have been a computer programmer since 1976, with my own company since 1984. I have programmed a complete accounting and budgeting package for a university, hired by the federal government, the County of San Diego, large HMOs, national medical laboratories and a brokerage firm. I will take the Certified Government Auditing Professional exam next year.

I am campaigning for your county auditor because it's predominantly OUR, yours and my, money that the county's spending. I want an objective and independent county auditor who will actually conduct audits. Companies hire independent auditors, it shouldn't be any different with your money. Electing a Democratic Auditor when most of the county offices are run by Democrats is not independent auditing. I am a Republican but independent as I self-fund, take no money from political parties, and do not have political baggage or debts to repay. My motto is "trust but verify." Gary Shumway for Auditor. Voteshumway.org.