State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick recently released an audit revealing that a former mayor of Excelsior Estates had improperly paid himself over $37,000 and funneled over $200,000 to a business he owned. The audit found that the village’s records were in disarray, with vital documents stored in a makeshift trailer.
The audit was conducted after a whistleblower complaint and with the village’s consent. A new law granting the auditor’s office power to investigate improper government activities took effect, allowing audits to be initiated without the need for board approval or a petition.
The bill, originating from concerns about cost overruns at a school construction project, aims to make audits more accessible. The auditor’s office, now rebuilding its staff, is focusing on audits of state agencies and programs. The number of audits has declined in recent years due to staffing shortages and increased workload.
The office’s routine work includes monitoring property tax rates, publishing spending reports, and auditing counties without elected auditors. Lawmakers have increased the auditor’s budget to attract new talent and retain staff.
The new law does not interfere with the auditor’s statutory responsibilities, providing additional authority to initiate investigations when necessary. Overall, the aim is to improve accountability and oversight of local government activities.
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