Talton set standard for state controller
An era passed this week with the death of former State Controller Fred W. Talton, who was the first independent state controller confirmed by the General Assembly. Mr. Talton was appointed by Governor Jim Martin in 1988 and was charged with modernizing the stateís financial operations for the new digital age. His efforts and the benefits from the transformation of North Carolina state government from paper based-systems to new technology-based operations continue today through many of the stateís financial policies, processes and systems.
Mr. Talton was widely known as an outstanding public servant, whose low key and friendly manner and good government ethics endeared him to members of the General Assembly, state employees and citizens. He was a certified public accountant who hired, trained and encouraged young people to a commitment of excellence in public service. Following his retirement, he carried that same level of commitment to the private sector, assisting many North Carolina businesses. All of us in the Office of the State Controller are appreciative of his efforts and his exemplary service to the state.
ó David T. McCoy
Raleigh
McCoy is the current state controller.