The Missouri state auditor reported no major findings in the city of St. Louis comptroller’s office. Comptroller Darlene Green’s office released a statement regarding the results of the audit.
“I welcome the state auditor’s fresh eyes on city operations. While the auditors
reported no major findings for the comptroller’s office, I understand the importance
of implementing the audit recommendations. We have already implemented 90
percent of the audit recommendations, however, budget constraints present a
challenge for others. Nevertheless, we appreciate the opportunity to improve
governance and efficiency of city operations,” said St. Louis Comptroller Darlene
Green.
The comptroller’s office has implemented audit recommendations to improve payroll
controls and procedures, as well as accounting controls and procedures. A new
computer system for both payroll and accounting will benefit the entire city and
remains a high priority to purchase as the budget allows.
City contract requirements for Tower Grove Park, Metro and Teach for America are
under review by the city counselor’s office.
Controls and procedures for checks and money orders received have been improved
and made more efficient.
Reimbursement of federal funds has improved with the hiring of a new federal grants
manager. Over $33 million has been reimbursed between July and December 2008.
Controls and procedures for capital assets have been improved by establishing a
policy whereby each city department submits and certifies an annual inventory to the
comptroller’s office. Then the comptroller’s office shall reconcile its records to the
departments certified inventory.
The commuter mileage reporting oversight has been corrected, reported to the IRS
and paid for by the comptroller in compliance with IRS requirements. New procedures
have been implemented to review vehicle use and assignment, and require usage
logs.
A new policy has been implemented to require travel reimbursement reports to be
submitted within 30 days of travel.
“My conservative fiscal policies have produced a solid financial foundation for
the city of St. Louis. This year the city received an A+ credit rating, the first in 35
years. The city faces its share of budget challenges, but was not affected by the
auction rate or derivative debt markets. The city has reserve funds and faces no
cash flow or short term credit issues. I have established a solid record of positive
fiscal performance, safeguarding taxpayer dollars and saving taxpayers $80 million
through refinancings.
“The state auditor’s recommendations will certainly enhance the already well-
managed fiscally conservative operations in the comptroller’s office,” Green said.
