Blansitt, a former auditor for the National Science Foundation and U.S. Department of Commerce, recently took over the post of Montgomery County inspector general. What attracted you to the top watchdog position in Montgomery County?
I heard about the position and thought that it sounded interesting. I have spent most of my adult life in the D.C. area. I used to spend a lot of time here and I liked it. The job is consistent with what I had been doing in the federal sector; I thought it would give me an opportunity to use my skills in a positive way.
What’s your impression of Montgomery thus far?
It’s a nice, environmentally friendly progressive place where there’s an appreciation for government workers and the services they provide.
How is this different from being a federal auditor?
They are certainly some structural differences in terms of focus. The federal offices have a larger focus in a law enforcement capacity. This office deals with many complaints but is not primarily a law enforcement activity. This office is focused more on operating efficiency and effectiveness.
How would you define your new role?
It’s interesting — I have to find a good niche. I see my role as strengthening the integrity, effectiveness and efficiency in county government. The role that I see for myself is developing accurate, timely and objective information for use by decision makers. For decision makers, your decisions are only as good as the information you have.
As an auditor, you always tell people what they are doing wrong — is it hard to make friends?
I’ve always had trouble making friends throughout my life. The people who are going to be your friends are going to be your friends. I don’t think that I have a problem establishing productive relationships with people, even when they might not be happy with our findings.
– Brian Hughes
