Open Letter to the Citizens of Palm Beach County

As I begin my service as Inspector General for Palm Beach County, I do so with deep respect for this office, its mission, its employees, and the citizens who rely on independent oversight to help protect public trust.

Inspectors General have been part of this nation’s commitment to accountable government since the founding of our country. In our representative democracy, checks and balances matter. Independent oversight is one way we give meaning to that principle. Inspectors General help ensure that public dollars are protected, government actions are reviewed, and public institutions remain worthy of the trust and confidence placed in them.

I look forward to serving in this new capacity and building on the strong foundation established under Inspector General John Carey. John has been a true servant leader, teacher, and mentor. I am grateful for the lessons and encouragement he has given me over the years. I am humbled by the responsibility now entrusted to me and committed to carrying this work forward with independence, objectivity, professionalism, and purpose.

Leadership is changing, but the mission is not.

The Office of Inspector General will continue its important work of identifying opportunities to improve government operations and helping prevent and detect fraud, waste, abuse, mismanagement, and misconduct involving taxpayer dollars.

Having served as Deputy Inspector General and General Counsel, I have worked closely with our leadership team and have seen firsthand the care, discipline, and professionalism with which this office approaches its work. I am proud to continue serving alongside a team deeply committed to integrity, accountability, and public service.

I have also seen the dedication of public servants throughout Palm Beach County and its municipalities. Most elected officials and government employees are committed to serving the public well. Independent oversight is not about assuming the worst. It is about helping government be its best.

When government works with integrity, communities are stronger. When public dollars are protected, taxpayers are better served. When government actions are reviewed independently and fairly, confidence grows.

The Office of Inspector General cannot do this work alone. Our effectiveness depends on the willingness of citizens, employees, contractors, public officials, and community partners to share information, raise concerns, offer ideas, and support a culture of ethics and integrity.

Good government is everyone’s business.

In the coming weeks, I look forward to listening, learning, and engaging with the citizens, municipalities, public servants, and community partners we serve through outreach.

It is an honor to serve as your Inspector General. I look forward to working together to enhance public trust in government.

Sincerely,

Kalinthia R. Dillard

Inspector General