Cole County Circuit Judge Jon Beteem issued a ruling Monday that denies a request by Clay County commissioners to put a stop to an audit by Missouri Auditor Nicole Galloway's office.
Two of the county's three commissioners wanted a preliminary injunction that would have kept Galloway from issuing subpoenas and demanding information for the audit. A grassroots group called Citizens for a Better Clay County demanded the probe.
Among the many concerns brought up by the non-profit citizens group: two county commissioners have been accused of misusing public funds, and an assistant county administrator has been charged with tempering with public documents, a misdemeanor. Organizers say they have no trust in Clay County government and they want to restore faith in the system.
Galloway's office posted a brief statement Monday on its official website:
The ruling means Galloway's office is allowed access to Clay County financial information, closed meeting minutes and other data stored on county computers and smartphones.
Judge Beteem did not issue a ruling on the county's request to dismiss the lawsuit. Another hearing is scheduled for next month on that question.