Lewis County Auditor Receives Recognition for Professional Development

Lewis County Auditor Larry Grove was recently recognized by the Washington Finance Officers Association, the Lewis County Board of  Commissioners announced Monday. 

Grove received the WFOA’s Professional Finance Officer Recognition, one of three awards available through the organization, according to its website. 

“The Professional Finance Officer Recognition program provides an opportunity for our members to be recognized for their continued professional development and achievements in the governmental finance arenas,” according to the WFOA’s website.

Commissioners commended Grove Monday during their regular Monday morning meeting. 

“We were hoping Larry Grove could be this morning so we could honor him,” Commissioner Edna Fund said Monday morning. “This annual award recognizes ongoing educational and professional excellence … It is not automatically awarded.”

Grove was not at Monday’s commission meeting. Commissioner Gary Stamper said he expected the auditor was busy working on a project to increase the number of ballot boxes in the county. 

“We’re very fortunate to have Larry Grove,” Stamper said. 

Members of the WFOA earn points for continuing education and other activities, according to the organization.

Grove was elected in 2014 to take the place of longtime Auditor Gary Zandell. Prior to his election, Grove spent 24 years as Lewis County’s chief accountant, serving as chief financial officer for the county since 1989.