2023 Accountability Audit Underway
Representatives from the Washington State Auditor’s Office provided a closer look at an accountability audit currently underway at the PUD during a special meeting on December 27.
Jefferson PUD has successfully passed 7 consecutive accountability audits.
Accountability audits are a look-back review at a full calendar year. Auditors are currently reviewing records from January 1 – December 31, 2023, specifically looking
at compliance with various state laws and overview contracts and grant agreements, as well as ensuring internal policies are followed. Procedures for the handling of public funds are also reviewed to ensure they are in accordance with the law.
Auditors use a risk-based approach, meaning they prioritize critical areas that could pose a potential threat to utility operations and provide safeguarding suggestions. The team evaluates items like accounts payable, payroll, procurement, open public meetings, and financial condition focused on financial distress.
The WA State Auditor’s office reviews public funds across all state agencies and local governments. The office has approximately 450 employees in 15 local field offices throughout Washington state. Between 2,600 – 2,700 audits are conducted annually.
The PUD covers the cost of the audit. During the meeting, commissioners focused questions on Lean facilitation audits, which are a free service provided by the Auditor’s office. Lean audits look at specific segments of the organization to focus procedural efforts for better tracking and compliance. Lean audits are available upon request and apply to operations like customer service, permitting, financials, and more, said Vinny Shiel, Audit Supervisor.
“Auditor teams are willing to give it a go at pretty much any process you might need help with,” said Shiel.
The state auditing team is currently underway and plan to present findings by late-January 2025 during an exit conference during a PUD regular or special meeting.
To listen to the December 27th State Auditor Special Meeting here.
All of the PUDs financial and audit documents are available to the public on online here.