Baltazar “Buddy” Vargas Appointed as New City Auditor for San Antonio

Published on November 15, 2024

SAN ANTONIO (November 15, 2024) – San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg has appointed Baltazar “Buddy” Vargas as the new City Auditor following the retirement of Kevin Barthold. Vargas, a 17-year veteran of San Antonio’s City Auditor’s Office, was chosen after a competitive selection process that attracted numerous qualified candidates. His deep experience and outstanding credentials made him the ideal choice for the role.

“Buddy Vargas has shown unwavering dedication and exceptional skill over his 17 years with the City,” said Mayor Ron Nirenberg. “I am confident he will excel in this new role as City Auditor, bringing a wealth of expertise to our city. I sincerely thank the search committee for identifying such a qualified candidate.”

In April 2024, Mayor Nirenberg assembled a City Auditor Search Committee – which included Councilmembers Phyllis Viagran (Chair), John Courage, and Dr. Adriana Rocha Garcia – to conduct the search.

“Buddy brings a deep understanding of the city’s operations and our commitment to transparency,” said City Manager Erik Walsh. “I am confident that under his leadership, the City Auditor’s Office will continue to provide the rigorous, impartial oversight our community expects and deserves.”

Vargas has held key positions throughout his tenure with the City of San Antonio, including six years as Senior Auditor Staff and 11 years as Audit Manager. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), and Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE). He also holds both a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from the University of Texas at San Antonio.

Vargas will officially assume his role on December 1, 2024, following the swearing-in ceremony at the City Council meeting on November 21, 2024.