Thank you for visiting the official internet site of the Office of Inspector General, Palm Beach County, Florida (OIG).  This site has been designed to provide user-friendly access to timely and accurate information about the OIG and the public entities we oversee.  This site provides you access to every report issued by the OIG, information about the role of the OIG, and answers to frequently asked questions.  We also include information about what to expect when contacted by OIG staff, standards that the OIG follows, links to other useful websites, and how to report waste, fraud or abuse. 

This OIG was established to “Enhance Public Trust in Government”.  The OIG has complete independent oversight authority to ensure accountability and transparency to the citizens of Palm Beach County.  Unlike other Inspectors General that report to their governing board or agency head, the Inspector General in Palm Beach County reports to the citizens of Palm Beach County.  This independence is to assure that no interference or influence external to the OIG adversely affects the independence and objectivity of the Inspector General. 

By vote of the citizens, our jurisdiction includes the County Government and each of the 38 municipalities.  Other public entities that have voluntarily entered into contracts for our oversight include the Solid Waste Authority, Health Care District and Children’s Services Council.  The Inspector General is empowered to detect, deter and prevent fraud, waste, mismanagement, misconduct and other abuses within governments and entities under OIG jurisdiction.  Further, the OIG promotes economy, efficiency and effectiveness in the administration and operations of those entities.

My experience as an Inspector General has taught me that the majority of government officials, employees, vendors and contractors are honest and hard-working.  Therefore, it is very important to remember that OIG activities result in a reporting of the facts.  OIG reports do more than identify fraud, waste or abuse.  They also identify when allegations against officials, employees, vendors and contractors are not substantiated.

I consider it an honor and a privilege to serve as the first Inspector General for Palm Beach County.  I will remain steadfast in my commitment to champion ethics reform.

Sheryl G. Steckler

Inspector General