New Auditor Promises Integrity and Transparency
New auditor aims to restore trust, transparency, and financial accountability in Nueces County after a challenging year marked by staffing changes, a forensic audit, and a costly phishing scam.
Following his appointment by the Nueces County Board of District Judges in October, Elias Sissamis officially began his two-year term on November 3. As a result of his selection, the county expects renewed stability and stronger financial oversight.
Moreover, he is a certified public accountant with broad experience in finance and administration, succeeding interim auditor Constance Sanchez. Meanwhile, Sanchez now returns to her former position as the county’s budget officer, ensuring continuity within the department.
As the county’s chief financial officer, Sissamis oversees fund disbursements, compliance with the Texas Local Government Code, and financial reporting. He also prioritizes cybersecurity and fraud prevention, key areas for rebuilding public trust and strengthening fiscal integrity.
“Organizational effectiveness has always been one of my biggest goals,” Sissamis said. “I want to use my experience in the corporate and nonprofit sectors to improve oversight and enhance how the office operates.”
Experienced Leadership After a Period of Turmoil
New auditor aims to restore confidence in county leadership as the Board of District Judges commended Elias Sissamis for his extensive background in accounting, auditing, and public finance.
Judge David Stith said Sissamis’s expertise and leadership will strengthen county finances and build public trust.
Before his appointment, Sissamis served as Director of Finance and Administration for the Corpus Christi Regional Transportation Authority (CCRTA) for six years. He also gained valuable private-sector experience at Adamson & Co., a certified public accounting firm.
Although he reports directly to the district judges, Sissamis emphasized his commitment to collaboration with the Nueces County Commissioners Court. He plans to attend meetings regularly and bridge communication among departments — a key step, he said, in strengthening county operations and rebuilding public trust.
Addressing Audit Findings and Financial Mismanagement
Sissamis takes office following a turbulent period for the Auditor’s Office. He is the third county auditor appointed this year, following the resignation of Grayson Meyer and the brief tenure of Constance Sanchez.
In August, district judges removed Meyer after a forensic audit revealed significant weaknesses and risks in the county’s financial operations from 2020 to 2024.
The audit findings were alarming:
- County officials transferred and loaned $3.75 million to the health insurance fund without the commissioners’ approval.
- Poor documentation and weak oversight were standard under previous leadership.
- Delayed bank reconciliations and policy noncompliance created further vulnerabilities.
- The office lacked transparency regarding fund performance and payroll changes.
These revelations prompted district judges to act swiftly, citing a need for stronger internal controls and leadership that prioritizes accountability.
Fighting Cyber Threats and Recovering Lost Funds
In addition to the audit findings, the county also faced a phishing scam targeting its staff earlier this year. Nearly $2 million was lost, but officials confirmed that the Auditor’s Office recovered the funds after swift action.
Sissamis said the transparency shown during that incident inspired him to apply for the position.
“The county was proactive and transparent,” he said. “They immediately informed the public — and that level of accountability really stood out to me.”
Sissamis emphasized that combating cybercrime and identity theft is now a top priority. He aims to strengthen internal defenses and support his team of internal auditors who assess risk and monitor vulnerabilities across departments.
Sissamis said internal audits may be less visible but are vital for identifying risks. He added that audits improve processes and help safeguard public funds effectively.
Fostering Accountability and Strengthening Public Trust
As Nueces County works to rebuild after a challenging year, Sissamis’s leadership marks a turning point. His focus on efficiency, transparency, and cybersecurity signals a broader effort to restore confidence in local government operations.
His message to residents and county staff is clear: accountability begins within.
“I want to improve the department from the inside out,” he said. “By strengthening our internal systems and communication, we can rebuild public trust and ensure the county’s financial integrity for years to come.”