Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-004: Payroll Significant Deficiency Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): As noted in 2 CFR 200.303 “The non-Federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).” Condition: Payroll approvals for individuals are not always made by individuals who are the employee’s supervisors or are otherwise knowledgeable about their level of effort during the payroll periods paid for. Cause: AAPT did not appropriately assign or ensure approval by payroll approvers based on who supervised or was otherwise knowledgeable of employee activity on federal grants. Effect or Potential Effect: Without an individual knowledgeable of an individual employee’s level of effort approving the time charged there is a greater risk that payroll payments are applied to a federal grant improperly, or leave is otherwise improperly omitted or overapplied to the individual’s leave balance. Questioned Costs: None noted. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: Not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend that AAPT change the designated approver for certain employees for whom the designated approver is not the employee’s supervisor or is not otherwise aware of the employee’s work efforts. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: AAPT has made changes to correctly reflect the employee’s assigned supervisor based on the position and job duties of the employees. Anticipated Completion Date: 04/01/2024 Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-004: Payroll Significant Deficiency Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): As noted in 2 CFR 200.303 “The non-Federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).” Condition: Payroll approvals for individuals are not always made by individuals who are the employee’s supervisors or are otherwise knowledgeable about their level of effort during the payroll periods paid for. Cause: AAPT did not appropriately assign or ensure approval by payroll approvers based on who supervised or was otherwise knowledgeable of employee activity on federal grants. Effect or Potential Effect: Without an individual knowledgeable of an individual employee’s level of effort approving the time charged there is a greater risk that payroll payments are applied to a federal grant improperly, or leave is otherwise improperly omitted or overapplied to the individual’s leave balance. Questioned Costs: None noted. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: Not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend that AAPT change the designated approver for certain employees for whom the designated approver is not the employee’s supervisor or is not otherwise aware of the employee’s work efforts. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: AAPT has made changes to correctly reflect the employee’s assigned supervisor based on the position and job duties of the employees. Anticipated Completion Date: 04/01/2024 Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-006: Subrecipient Monitoring Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 - STEM +C Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): As stated in 2 CFR 200.331 part (b), all pass-through entities must evaluate each subrecipient's risk of noncompliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the subaward for purposes of determining the appropriate subrecipient monitoring procedures to prescribe to each individual subrecipient. Condition: During our audit work over subrecipient monitoring, we were unable to verify that pre-award risk assessment procedures were performed. It is our understanding that AAPT has ongoing relationships with these subrecipients and evaluation of these subrecipients' risk is a continual process; however, these procedures were not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing risk assessment on subrecipient was not performed. Effect or Potential Effect: AAPT could inadvertently engage in relationships with subrecipients of higher risk without the appropriate level of oversight to ensure subrecipients are expending funds in accordance with the provisions and terms of the subaward. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of examining documentation of the subrecipient monitoring process, and evaluating internal controls over the process. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-005. Recommendation: We recommend AAPT follow their internal policies and procedures surrounding subrecipients and document the risk assessment criteria for the purpose of determining the expected level of oversight during the period of performance. This evaluation should include a scaling system, such as high, medium or low risk (for example), and the monitoring tools and procedures to be performed at each of these levels (additional
training, on-site reviews, types of and frequency of reporting, etc.).
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will continue to
perform risk assessment procedures and will thoroughly document the processes and
evaluations.
Anticipated Completion Date: 12/17/2021
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-004: Payroll Significant Deficiency Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): As noted in 2 CFR 200.303 “The non-Federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).” Condition: Payroll approvals for individuals are not always made by individuals who are the employee’s supervisors or are otherwise knowledgeable about their level of effort during the payroll periods paid for. Cause: AAPT did not appropriately assign or ensure approval by payroll approvers based on who supervised or was otherwise knowledgeable of employee activity on federal grants. Effect or Potential Effect: Without an individual knowledgeable of an individual employee’s level of effort approving the time charged there is a greater risk that payroll payments are applied to a federal grant improperly, or leave is otherwise improperly omitted or overapplied to the individual’s leave balance. Questioned Costs: None noted. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: Not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend that AAPT change the designated approver for certain employees for whom the designated approver is not the employee’s supervisor or is not otherwise aware of the employee’s work efforts. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: AAPT has made changes to correctly reflect the employee’s assigned supervisor based on the position and job duties of the employees. Anticipated Completion Date: 04/01/2024 Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-004: Payroll Significant Deficiency Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): As noted in 2 CFR 200.303 “The non-Federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).” Condition: Payroll approvals for individuals are not always made by individuals who are the employee’s supervisors or are otherwise knowledgeable about their level of effort during the payroll periods paid for. Cause: AAPT did not appropriately assign or ensure approval by payroll approvers based on who supervised or was otherwise knowledgeable of employee activity on federal grants. Effect or Potential Effect: Without an individual knowledgeable of an individual employee’s level of effort approving the time charged there is a greater risk that payroll payments are applied to a federal grant improperly, or leave is otherwise improperly omitted or overapplied to the individual’s leave balance. Questioned Costs: None noted. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: Not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend that AAPT change the designated approver for certain employees for whom the designated approver is not the employee’s supervisor or is not otherwise aware of the employee’s work efforts. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: AAPT has made changes to correctly reflect the employee’s assigned supervisor based on the position and job duties of the employees. Anticipated Completion Date: 04/01/2024 Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-004: Payroll Significant Deficiency Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): As noted in 2 CFR 200.303 “The non-Federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).” Condition: Payroll approvals for individuals are not always made by individuals who are the employee’s supervisors or are otherwise knowledgeable about their level of effort during the payroll periods paid for. Cause: AAPT did not appropriately assign or ensure approval by payroll approvers based on who supervised or was otherwise knowledgeable of employee activity on federal grants. Effect or Potential Effect: Without an individual knowledgeable of an individual employee’s level of effort approving the time charged there is a greater risk that payroll payments are applied to a federal grant improperly, or leave is otherwise improperly omitted or overapplied to the individual’s leave balance. Questioned Costs: None noted. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: Not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend that AAPT change the designated approver for certain employees for whom the designated approver is not the employee’s supervisor or is not otherwise aware of the employee’s work efforts. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: AAPT has made changes to correctly reflect the employee’s assigned supervisor based on the position and job duties of the employees. Anticipated Completion Date: 04/01/2024 Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-006: Subrecipient Monitoring Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 - STEM +C Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): As stated in 2 CFR 200.331 part (b), all pass-through entities must evaluate each subrecipient's risk of noncompliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the subaward for purposes of determining the appropriate subrecipient monitoring procedures to prescribe to each individual subrecipient. Condition: During our audit work over subrecipient monitoring, we were unable to verify that pre-award risk assessment procedures were performed. It is our understanding that AAPT has ongoing relationships with these subrecipients and evaluation of these subrecipients' risk is a continual process; however, these procedures were not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing risk assessment on subrecipient was not performed. Effect or Potential Effect: AAPT could inadvertently engage in relationships with subrecipients of higher risk without the appropriate level of oversight to ensure subrecipients are expending funds in accordance with the provisions and terms of the subaward. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of examining documentation of the subrecipient monitoring process, and evaluating internal controls over the process. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-005. Recommendation: We recommend AAPT follow their internal policies and procedures surrounding subrecipients and document the risk assessment criteria for the purpose of determining the expected level of oversight during the period of performance. This evaluation should include a scaling system, such as high, medium or low risk (for example), and the monitoring tools and procedures to be performed at each of these levels (additional
training, on-site reviews, types of and frequency of reporting, etc.).
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will continue to
perform risk assessment procedures and will thoroughly document the processes and
evaluations.
Anticipated Completion Date: 12/17/2021
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-004: Payroll Significant Deficiency Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): As noted in 2 CFR 200.303 “The non-Federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).” Condition: Payroll approvals for individuals are not always made by individuals who are the employee’s supervisors or are otherwise knowledgeable about their level of effort during the payroll periods paid for. Cause: AAPT did not appropriately assign or ensure approval by payroll approvers based on who supervised or was otherwise knowledgeable of employee activity on federal grants. Effect or Potential Effect: Without an individual knowledgeable of an individual employee’s level of effort approving the time charged there is a greater risk that payroll payments are applied to a federal grant improperly, or leave is otherwise improperly omitted or overapplied to the individual’s leave balance. Questioned Costs: None noted. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: Not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend that AAPT change the designated approver for certain employees for whom the designated approver is not the employee’s supervisor or is not otherwise aware of the employee’s work efforts. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: AAPT has made changes to correctly reflect the employee’s assigned supervisor based on the position and job duties of the employees. Anticipated Completion Date: 04/01/2024 Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-003: Reconciliation of Accounts Material Weakness Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: 47.076 Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): According to 2 CFR 200.508 "Auditee Responsibilities" the auditee must prepare appropriate financial statements, including the SEFA (as specifically defined under 2 CFR 200.510 "Financial statements"). Title 2 CFR 200.510 "financial statements" requires recipients of Federal funds to prepare a SEFA for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements, which must include
the total Federal awards expended. In addition, as noted in 2 CFR 200.302 "Financial
management", the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for
identification, in its accounts, of all Federal awards received and expended and the Federal
programs under which they were received, and records that identify adequately the source and
application of funds for federally-funded activities including expenditures.
Condition: The year-end schedules for federal grants receivable, for net assets, and for vacation
payable were not reconciled and needed to be revised and updated.
Cause: Errors in transferring balances between years occurred, which impacted carry-over
amounts and the ending balances as of 12/31/2020. Related to vacation payables, the schedule
had not been properly adjusted to account for the number of days in the last pay period.
Effect or Potential Effect: Three federal grant accounts were overdrawn as of 12/31/2020,
creating a liability to the federal government. The related grant receivable and liability balances
were not properly stated before adjustment as a result.
Questioned Costs: $77,113.
Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-002
Recommendation: We recommend AAPT staff prepare schedules used to prepare entries into
the accounting information system or which the information in the schedules will
otherwise be used to initiate financial transactions, and the transactions and schedules be
reviewed by a supervisor.
Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The outstanding liability due to
NSF of $73,057 will be reimbursed when AAPT files the next drawn down request. Anticipated
date of drawn down will be by April, 30,2024 The remaining balance was earned in 2021.
The senior accountant will be trained to prepare entries previously prepared by the CFO
The senior accountant will reconcile accounts, and provide updated current schedules.
The CFO will review and approve the entries and schedules prepared by the Senior accountant.
Anticipated Completion Date: 05/01/2024
Responsible Official: Michael Brosnan, CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2020-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2019-004. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services
with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds.
Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024
Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO