Purpose of Audit

The objective of our audit was to examine internal controls over the District’s financial operations for the period July 1, 2015 through July 31, 2016.

Background

The Pittsfield Fire District is a district corporation of the State, distinct and separate from the Town of Pittsfield, in Otsego County. The District is governed by an elected five-member Board of Fire Commissioners. General fund budgeted appropriations for 2016 total $105,000.

Key Findings

• The Board does not have any policies or procedures for credit card usage.
• The Treasurer is responsible for performing virtually all of the District’s financial duties.

Key Recommendations

• Develop and adopt a credit card policy, including requirements for retaining supporting documentation for charges on each credit card bill.
• Provide oversight of the Treasurer’s duties throughout the year, including a periodic review of the Treasurer’s monthly reports, bank reconciliations and supporting documentation, such as the District’s bank statements, canceled check images and hall rental agreement forms.