Allegheny County Controller’s Office – Pittsburgh, PA

Fiscal Watchdog of Allegheny County

The Allegheny County Controller’s Office, led by the independently elected County Controller, serves as the chief financial officer and auditor for the county government. Located in the Allegheny County Courthouse, this office acts as the taxpayer’s advocate, ensuring that county funds are spent legally, efficiently, and transparently. The Controller sits on several critical boards, including the Retirement Board, Prison Board, and Salary Board.

Key Responsibilities

The office manages the county’s fiscal operations through several divisions:

• Auditing: Conducts financial and performance audits of county departments and agencies to prevent waste and fraud.
• Accounting and Payroll: Processes payments for county vendors and manages payroll for thousands of county employees.
• Financial Reporting: Produces the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and the Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR).
• OpenGov: Maintains a digital platform for citizens to view county contracts, expenses, and budget data.

Visiting the Office

While most interaction with the Controller’s office—such as viewing audit reports or contracts—can be done online, the physical office is open to the public. As it is housed within the Courthouse, visitors must adhere to strict security protocols, including passing through metal detectors. The office is distinct from the Treasurer; the Controller checks the books, while the Treasurer collects the funds.