“Government services are not without cost, and without a doubt, there will always be a debate about appropriate tax rates and the amount of taxation,” DePasquale told the crowd of more than 500. “But, what is not up for debate is that the taxes government collects must be used as effectively as possible. That is why I pledge to you again today that I will be a tough, fair and independent Auditor General. This starts by making sure your tax dollars are invested wisely.
“My approach to audits will be to focus on making realistic recommendations and developing workable solutions to improve government operations.”
Speaking about the growth from the natural gas drilling industry in the Marcellus Shale region, DePasquale said: “Today it is clear, we must strive to grow our economy and protect our environment at the same time. That is why, one of my first official duties as auditor general will be to initiate a performance audit of the Department of Environmental Protection to make sure our constitutional right to pure water is not being compromised by natural gas drilling.”
He will formally announce the audit on Wednesday, his first full day as auditor general.
During his six years in the House, he became known as a leading voice for government reform and accountability. In 2008, his Alternative Energy Investment Act became law and has since helped consumers save money, create jobs and lead to a more diversified and clean energy portfolio for the state.
Before being elected to the House of Representatives, DePasquale served as Governor Ed Rendell’s deputy secretary in the Department of Environmental Protection. He led the effort to recruit Gamesa, the world’s second largest wind company, to locate its headquarters and manufacturing plants in Pennsylvania.
