Do any of ya'll out there that have private practices in the courthouse get that use taxed as a "fringe benefit" and added to your W-2? This is what our inexperienced outside auditor recommended and seconded by our bookkeeper auditor. (All based on actions by two electeds that don't like me and run folks against me - who then loose!) I reimburse the County (per resolution) for copies and long distance phone calls. Also, any difference between us and the Judges (mostly JPs) that get personal gain from courthouse offices - weddings - allowed even without Commissioners Court approval (our 41.011 Govt. Code)? I believe this is bad precedence and could effect all of you out there with private practices in the courthouse. Any ideas, suggestions, comments, I'm open! Thanks Tons! Cheryll Mabray

OK, I was waiting for one of the gurus to answer. Since the silence is deafening - all I can offer is this (yes, Clay, I'm one of the THOSE personalities!)

WHen I have had major head buttings with my auditor, I have gone to a local CPA and asked the question. 95% of the time he shakes his head, disagrees with her, and gives me a letter telling her she's wrong. I present the letter to her quietly. If she isn't willing to follow it, I would take it on to COmmissioners Court and point out that she is - according to the experts - misinterpreting IRS regs.

Lisa L. Peterson
Nolan County Attorney

Having no private office, had no advice. If I asked my auditor about it she is just paranoid enough to begin investigating whether I had a private office on county property. Lisa, I think your advice is right on as usual. So don't sell yourself short, Guru Lisa.