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Newly appointed County Auditor Fran Lee has served the county since 1996. -
Former County Auditor Patrick Swain celebrates retirement alongside his wife Donna during a Dec. 12 reception.
During the Jan. 2 special meeting of the Jefferson County Commissioners, First Assistant County Auditor Fran Lee was appointed Jefferson County Auditor for the unexpired term of former County Auditor Patrick Swain, effective Jan. 1 through Dec. 31.
Lee has served the county since 1996, when she began as staff accountant, was promoted to financial manager in 2002, and served as first assistant auditor 2017 through 2023.
Lee’s compensation moving forward will be an annual salary of $153,321.38, an automobile allowance of $6,840, and a cell phone allowance of $900.
“I’m grateful for Patrick’s encouragement and support and for his mentorship through the years, as well as the support from our district judges,” said Lee. “It felt like it was a non-event, and I was very grateful they had the confidence in me to do the job. I want to do the best job for the taxpayers.”
With 12 years of experience with the county, Rebekah Patton will take Lee’s place as first assistant county auditor.
“Through the years, Patrick and I have built a great office and we couldn’t do it without our staff,” said Lee.
Swain was appointed county auditor in 1996 and said that, aside from cleaning out 30 years of nick-nacks from the closet, he is most looking forward to spending time with his wife of 38 years, Donna, their three children, and his grandbabies as he looks forward to welcoming the second grand in February.
“I may have to go back to work to get a break,” said Swain with a laugh as he talked about a list of honey do’s he’s certain to tackle.
Swain informed district judges of his intent to retire last August and had a reception on Dec. 12 to say his farewells.
“Fran is very experienced and has been my first assistant auditor for years. She will do a great job,” said Swain.