"About Teresa Smaok Messex & why I'm the most qualified candidate for the job of Auditor."

I appreciate the opportunity to tell you about myself and why I think I should be Auditor. My name is Teresa Smoak Messex.  My husband Travis and I are residents of St. George.

We are both lifelong residents of Dorchester County. I worked closely for the past 10 years with one of the most respected auditors in the field.

I cannot stress how important it is for the Auditor to have hands-on experience and a thorough understanding of the SC Property Tax System. Although there is no requirement to file to run for the position, I want to stress to you how critically important it is that your next Auditor have this hands-on experience!

I’m confident I am the best qualified candidate to serve as your next county Auditor because I’m ready to hit the ground running from Day1.

I’m already familiar with the schedule of events such as the budget, tax billing etc…. I already have a relationship with the current staff not only in the Auditor’s office, but with other county personnel and other agencies throughout the state. I have the people skills and technical skills needed to work with county council, the county administrator, other department heads and agencies as needed in my capacity as your county Auditor.

I assisted in implementing a system to handle FLC mobile homes which has been benchmarked by various counties as an effective method of turning these properties into viable, taxable property, saves the home of the individuals involved and reduces lost tax dollars.

I also assisted in implementing a system that helped to bring in over $2.2 million in past due business personal property taxes over the past several years and has increased the number of business property tax filing by 65% which helped to create a more accurate, collectable tax base.

I have also been a part in helping to reduce the number of vehicles using out of state tags, which helped to bring in over $1.5 million over a 2 year period. This effort has led to the public having more knowledge regarding vehicle registration etc…

I have participated in and/or given presentations to our county magistrates along with SC Assoc of Auditors, Treasures and Tax Collectors.

I have truly enjoyed the challenges that working with the public can bring and consider public service my “calling.”

I’m customer-service oriented as are my co workers, who support me in my effort to become Auditor. I’m known for being energetic, efficient and effective and for being a natural “leader.” I’m a hard-worker and will promise to always do my best to make Dorchester County proud in my capacity as your auditor.

In closing, I would like to ask you to please vote for me as your county Auditor on June 10, 2008.

My promise to you is to always remember that my service to the taxpayers of Dorchester County is my most important priority and I will, to the best of my ability, serve you effectively in my capacity as your county Auditor.

Thank You!