Purpose of Audit

The purpose of our audit was to review whether the District obtained professional services in accordance with its purchasing policy for the period January 1, 2013 through May 31, 2014.

Background

The Slingerlands Fire District is a district corporation of the State, distinct and separate from the Towns of Bethlehem and New Scotland in Albany County. The District is governed by an elected five-member Board of Fire Commissioners. The general fund budget for the 2014 fiscal year totaled $547,525.

Key Finding

• District officials did not obtain quotes or proposals for most professional services during the audit period.

Key Recommendation

• Revise the procurement policy to clearly define the professional services procurement requirements and require written proposals, quotations or price comparisons, depending on the value of the contract, when awarding contracts for professional services.