Columbus auditor Megan Kilgore announces resignation; council opens application window for replacement

City Auditor Megan Kilgore told Columbus City Council on Wednesday she will step down effective May 4, 2026, after serving as auditor and overseeing the office’s finance responsibilities. Kilgore described the office’s technical complexity, fiscal systems, and the importance of financial credibility and management experience for successors.

Council announced an open application process (posted on council’s website) for residents interested in appointment; applications were accepted through April 23 at noon. Kilgore said candidates should bring public finance, capital markets and debt issuance experience and be able to add credibility on day one; she offered to assist in transition. Council made clear adherence to charter timelines requiring the city not to be without an auditor.

Quote: “We are the face of Wall Street…Every single 0.1% that we can save means more dollars for council and the mayor to make decisions,” Auditor Kilgore said, describing the scale and public accountability of the auditor’s office.

Next steps: Council will review applications and follow the charter process for appointment. Kilgore said she will support a transparent search and offered to participate in transition activities.