FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Toni Messina, Director, Public Communications - (573) 874-7660 or Rene Graham, Public Communications Officer - (573) 874-7316 or John Blattel,
Internal Auditor - (573) 874-7627

City manager names interim finance director

COLUMBIA, MO (November 24, 2010) - City Manager Bill Watkins today announced that John Blattel, the city’s internal auditor, will serve as interim director of the Finance Department, effective Dec. 3. The appointment comes as current Finance Director Lori Fleming leaves city employment for a position with the U.S. Treasury Department. Her last day is Dec. 3.

Blattel’s two-and-a-half years as internal auditor are excellent background for this transitional position said Watkins. “John has thorough knowledge of our accounting systems, treasury operations and other finance functions. He has my trust.”

Blattel’s experience includes more than 30 years with the Missouri State Auditor’s Office. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Southeast Missouri State University and is both a certified public accountant and a certified fraud examiner.

Watkins said that, while Blattel will continue to monitor a few of his current assignments, the internal auditor position will essentially be in abeyance during his interim appointment. “John will devote full time to this critical position. I’m confident that our established internal controls will allow us to maintain prudent operations during the transition.”

“I’m excited to have this opportunity to provide additional service to the city,” Blattel said. Blattel’s annual salary will increase from around $68,000 to $95,000 during his interim appointment, and he will maintain his existing employee benefits. Blattel is married with three children and three grandchildren. He currently resides in Jefferson City, Mo.

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