Purpose of Audit

The purpose of our audit was to review the Town’s financial operations for the period January 1, 2016 through March 23, 2017.

Background

The Town of McDonough is located in Chenango County and has a population of approximately 890. The Town is governed by an elected five-member Town Board. Budgeted appropriations for the general and highway funds for 2017 total $678,550.

Key Findings

• Town officials purchased goods and services totaling $265,200 without soliciting competition, selecting the lowest bidders or using County or New York State Office of General Services pricing.
• Town officials did not always ensure that purchases were at the best prices and disbursements were for proper Town purposes.

Key Recommendations

• Ensure that the requirements for soliciting competitive bids, obtaining quotes and maintaining documentation are communicated to and complied with by Town officials and employees.
• Audit claims prior to payment to ensure they are for proper and valid charges and that the goods and services are procured at the lowest costs.