New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli today announced his office completed audits of the Halcottsville Fire Department, Town of Rush, Willsboro Fire Department and the Child Protective Service units in the counties of Dutchess, Livingston, Niagara, Oneida, Rockland, Saratoga, Ulster and Washington.

“In today’s fiscal climate, budget transparency and accountability for our local communities is a top priority,” said DiNapoli. “By auditing municipal finances and operations, my office continues to provide taxpayers the assurance that their money is being spent appropriately and effectively.” 

Halcottsville Fire Department – Cash Receipts and Disbursements (Delaware County)

Although the department members developed good policies and procedures, the bylaws could be improved by adding specific language specifying who is responsible for approving bills for payment and reviewing the treasurer’s work. 

Town of Rush – Board Oversight (Monroe County)

The town board did not audit claims prior to approval for payment during fiscal years 2012 and 2013. In addition, the board did not conduct an annual audit of the books and records of all town officers who received and disbursed cash for fiscal years 2012 and 2013. 

Willsboro Fire Department – Financial Operations (Essex County)

Department officials did not establish policies and procedures or provide oversight of department financial activities. Consequently, the department’s accounting records were not properly maintained, bank reconciliations were not performed and crucial financial reports were not prepared and submitted for department officials’ review. 

Child Protective Services (2013-MS-5)

None of the eight counties audited use available historical and programmatic knowledge to determine if Child Protective Services program improvements are needed or if certain initiatives or actions result in positive outcomes. Three counties did not fully implement CPS program improvement plans to reduce recurrence rates of child abuse and neglect.

For access to state and local government spending and nearly 50,000 state contracts, visit http://www.openbooknewyork.com/. The easy-to-use website was created by Comptroller DiNapoli to promote openness in government and provide taxpayers with better access to the financial workings of government.