Finding No. 2022-007 -Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Eligible Uses - FEMA
Condition
During the closeout procedures, the Cenh·al Office of Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3) office performed a 100% validation on Rental Equipment, supporting documents including conh"act smmnary record...
Finding No. 2022-007 -Activities Allowed or Unallowed, Eligible Uses - FEMA
Condition
During the closeout procedures, the Cenh·al Office of Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3) office performed a 100% validation on Rental Equipment, supporting documents including conh"act smmnary record, invoices, and proofs of payment. As a result of the validation, the total validated amount is $979,259 from an original amount of $1,260,775 submitted by the Corporation for reimbursement.
Corporation response
The Corporation agrees with the finding.
Corrective Action Plan
Upon receiving the audit findings, we initiated an immediate review of our FEMA-funded projects and expenditures. We are implementing immediate corrective actions to address the identified deficiencies and ensure strict compliance with FEMA guidelines regarding eligible uses.
• Policies and Procedures Review - Simultaneously, the Corporation is reviewing our existing policies and procedures related to FEMA funds, with a specific focus on eligible activities. Any necessary revisions will be made to strengthen our policies and ensure rigorous adherence to FEMA guidelines and regulations.
• Enhance Internal Controls - We are enhancing our internal controls related to FEMA fund utilization. This includes implementing additional checks and balances to improve the accuracy and reliability of our project management processes, ensuring they align with FEMA guidelines.
■ Communication Protocols Enhancements - We understand the importance of transparent communication regarding the use of FEMA funds. To address this, we are enhancing our communication protocols to ensure that all relevant stakeholders are informed of FEMA guidelines, project eligibility requirements, and any changes to procedures.
• Return of Funds - Initiate the communication process with the Central Office of Recovery, Reconstruction, and Resiliency to obtain instructions for returning the funds to FEMA. Follow FEMA's specific guidelines on the return of funds, including the appropriate documentation, timelines, and c01mnunication procedures.
■ Finance Team - The Corporation has made changes to its management staff structure in the finance and budget department, with the mission of improving the monitoring process and compliance with federal and local regulations and the support of independent consultants. A new Finance and Budget Director and the Associate Director of Finance and Budget have been appointed.
Names of the contact persons responsible for corrective action plan
Jesus A. Rodrfguez Aviles - Financial Planning and Analysis Associate Director Cecilia Robles Kakiuchi - Financial Planning and Analysis Director
Anticipated Completion Date Fiscal Year 2024