Purpose of Audit

The purpose of our audit was to examine controls over the recording and reporting of financial activity for the period January 1, 2013 through May 19, 2014.

Background

The Hortonville Fire Company is a volunteer organization associated with the Hortonville Fire District, which serves the hamlet of Hortonville in the Town of Delaware, Suffolk County. The members, including five officers, are responsible for the Company’s overall financial management. Disbursements totaled almost $100,000 during 2013.

Key Findings

• The members did not review bank reconciliations or conduct an annual audit of the Treasurer’s records.
• Death benefit payouts and grant activities were not included on reports to the members.
• Fundraising controls are generally lacking.
• Not all claims were approved by the members prior to payment.

Key Recommendations

• Compare financial activity recorded by the Treasurer with bank statements and conduct an annual audit of the Treasurer’s records.
• Ensure that the Trustees submit monthly reports of death benefit activity to the members.
• Establish controls over fundraising activities to ensure that all money collected is deposited in a timely manner.
• Audit and approve all claims before payments are made.