Finding 2023-003: Suspension and Debarment Information About the Program: All Programs Criteria: As stated in 2 CFR §200.303, the non-Federal entity (i.e. NFHA) 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 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 in the “Internal Control Integrated Framework” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). According to 2 CFR §200.214, the non-Federal entity is subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Condition: During our audit, we noted NFHA did not perform checks via SAM.gov to ensure that potential vendors, contractors, or consultants are suspended or debarred. The failure to screen such parties increases the possibility that U.S. Government funds may inadvertently be provided to individuals or organizations deemed to be excluded by the U.S. Government. Cause: Management did not have effective internal controls in place to ensure that suspension and debarment checks were being performed prior to entering into contracts with vendors or contractors/ consultants.Potential Effect: NFHA is exposed to an increased risk that future noncompliance could occur by entering into transactions with vendors, contractors, or consultants that are suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from contracting with the U.S. Federal Government. If a non-Federal entity knowingly does business with an excluded person, the agency responsible for NFHA's funding may disallow costs, annul or terminate the transaction, issue a stop work order, debar or suspend NFHA, or take other remedies as appropriate. Questioned Costs: None. Context: NFHA failed to perform its due diligence with respect to these requirements. The issue is considered systemic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding: Not applicable. Recommendation: We recommend NFHA implement internal controls to ensure that all vendors, contractors, and consultants are screened for suspension and debarment prior to entering into any executed contract. We further recommend that a policy be formalized and implemented that requires an annual screening, at a minimum, of any current vendors, contractors, or consultants as well.
Finding 2023-003: Suspension and Debarment Information About the Program: All Programs Criteria: As stated in 2 CFR §200.303, the non-Federal entity (i.e. NFHA) 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 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 in the “Internal Control Integrated Framework” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). According to 2 CFR §200.214, the non-Federal entity is subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Condition: During our audit, we noted NFHA did not perform checks via SAM.gov to ensure that potential vendors, contractors, or consultants are suspended or debarred. The failure to screen such parties increases the possibility that U.S. Government funds may inadvertently be provided to individuals or organizations deemed to be excluded by the U.S. Government. Cause: Management did not have effective internal controls in place to ensure that suspension and debarment checks were being performed prior to entering into contracts with vendors or contractors/ consultants.Potential Effect: NFHA is exposed to an increased risk that future noncompliance could occur by entering into transactions with vendors, contractors, or consultants that are suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from contracting with the U.S. Federal Government. If a non-Federal entity knowingly does business with an excluded person, the agency responsible for NFHA's funding may disallow costs, annul or terminate the transaction, issue a stop work order, debar or suspend NFHA, or take other remedies as appropriate. Questioned Costs: None. Context: NFHA failed to perform its due diligence with respect to these requirements. The issue is considered systemic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding: Not applicable. Recommendation: We recommend NFHA implement internal controls to ensure that all vendors, contractors, and consultants are screened for suspension and debarment prior to entering into any executed contract. We further recommend that a policy be formalized and implemented that requires an annual screening, at a minimum, of any current vendors, contractors, or consultants as well.
Failure to Follow Procurement Policy Finding 2023-003 Condition: The Authority did not comply with the current procurement policy as procedures were not fully followed and forms required by the Authority’s procurement policy were not completed. The following forms required by either 2 CFR 200 and/or the Authority’s own procurement policy were not completed for the current year capital asset purchases: Written Record of Procurement Checklist Form, Method of Procurement Decision Matrix, Advertisement and Solicitation Form, Bid Quotations, Fewer Than 3 Offers Received Evaluation if applicable, Proposal Tabulation, Certification of Compliance with Federal Clauses for the assets less than $25,000, and Responsibility Determination (sam.gov debarred verification). Also, as stated in the prior finding, the procurement policy needs to be updated. Criteria: According to 2 CFR 200.214 Suspension and Debarment, Non-Federal entities are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. The following excerpts are from 2 CFR Part 200.318 General Procurement Standards. (a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. (i) the non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. According to 2 CFR 200.320 Methods of Procurement to be Followed, the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or sub-award. Concurrently, the Authority’s did not comply with its own current procurement policy as it did not follow or prepare the required documentation detailed in the following sections. Procurement Requests-The Authority will maintain sufficient records to detail the history of a procurement. Such records shall include method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection (or rejection), and the contract price. The Authority will treat any prospective contractor or sub-contractor listed on a centralized State government debarment and suspension list as nonresponsible and ineligible for contract award. Debarment and Suspension- The Authority will treat any prospective contractor or sub-contractor listed on a centralized State government debarment and suspension list as non-responsible and ineligible for contract awards. To see if a prospective contractor is eligible, we will look on the website www.SAM.gov and when the bid has been received. Methods of Procurement- a. Micro and Emergency Purchases (do not exceed $10,000)-(a) A written determination as to why price is deemed fair and reasonable must be on file with each purchase made under this method of procurement using Micro-Purchase Price Reasonableness Determination Form. (b) Splitting of procurements to avoid the competitive procurement requirements of federal and state statues shall not be condoned. b. Small Purchase Procurement ($10,000 to $250,000)-(a) A minimum of two price or rate quotations shall be obtained from qualified sources; (b) The procurement will be made from the lowest priced qualified bid, if products or goods are equal; (c) MDOT requires for procurements under $25,000.00. Included Procurement Appendix A, B, E, F, G, H, or I and Vehicle Specification certification if applies. (d) MDOT requires for procurements over $25,000.00 solicitations, including specifications and written selection procedures (lowest bids), Include Procurement Appendix A, F, G, H or I and Vehicle Specification certification if applies. Third Party Contracts with applicable clauses and bond documents must be included. Cause: The Authority did not follow its own procurement policy. Effect: The Authority is noncompliant with 2 CFR 200 and its own procurement policy. Directive: We direct the Authority review and update its procurement policy and implement procedures to ensure that the Authority is complying with the federal requirements, required forms are being completed, and documentation is being maintained. Management’s Response--Corrective Action Plan: Contact person is Rufus Adams, Executive Director, 275 East Wall Street, P.O. Box 837, Benton Harbor, Michigan 49023. Telephone (269) 927-2268. The Authority will review and update its procurement policy to comply with federal requirements. The Authority’s management, consultant, and finance director will review the procedures in the policy to ensure they are being acted upon accordingly going forward.
Failure to Follow Procurement Policy Finding 2023-003 Condition: The Authority did not comply with the current procurement policy as procedures were not fully followed and forms required by the Authority’s procurement policy were not completed. The following forms required by either 2 CFR 200 and/or the Authority’s own procurement policy were not completed for the current year capital asset purchases: Written Record of Procurement Checklist Form, Method of Procurement Decision Matrix, Advertisement and Solicitation Form, Bid Quotations, Fewer Than 3 Offers Received Evaluation if applicable, Proposal Tabulation, Certification of Compliance with Federal Clauses for the assets less than $25,000, and Responsibility Determination (sam.gov debarred verification). Also, as stated in the prior finding, the procurement policy needs to be updated. Criteria: According to 2 CFR 200.214 Suspension and Debarment, Non-Federal entities are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. The following excerpts are from 2 CFR Part 200.318 General Procurement Standards. (a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. (i) the non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. According to 2 CFR 200.320 Methods of Procurement to be Followed, the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or sub-award. Concurrently, the Authority’s did not comply with its own current procurement policy as it did not follow or prepare the required documentation detailed in the following sections. Procurement Requests-The Authority will maintain sufficient records to detail the history of a procurement. Such records shall include method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection (or rejection), and the contract price. The Authority will treat any prospective contractor or sub-contractor listed on a centralized State government debarment and suspension list as nonresponsible and ineligible for contract award. Debarment and Suspension- The Authority will treat any prospective contractor or sub-contractor listed on a centralized State government debarment and suspension list as non-responsible and ineligible for contract awards. To see if a prospective contractor is eligible, we will look on the website www.SAM.gov and when the bid has been received. Methods of Procurement- a. Micro and Emergency Purchases (do not exceed $10,000)-(a) A written determination as to why price is deemed fair and reasonable must be on file with each purchase made under this method of procurement using Micro-Purchase Price Reasonableness Determination Form. (b) Splitting of procurements to avoid the competitive procurement requirements of federal and state statues shall not be condoned. b. Small Purchase Procurement ($10,000 to $250,000)-(a) A minimum of two price or rate quotations shall be obtained from qualified sources; (b) The procurement will be made from the lowest priced qualified bid, if products or goods are equal; (c) MDOT requires for procurements under $25,000.00. Included Procurement Appendix A, B, E, F, G, H, or I and Vehicle Specification certification if applies. (d) MDOT requires for procurements over $25,000.00 solicitations, including specifications and written selection procedures (lowest bids), Include Procurement Appendix A, F, G, H or I and Vehicle Specification certification if applies. Third Party Contracts with applicable clauses and bond documents must be included. Cause: The Authority did not follow its own procurement policy. Effect: The Authority is noncompliant with 2 CFR 200 and its own procurement policy. Directive: We direct the Authority review and update its procurement policy and implement procedures to ensure that the Authority is complying with the federal requirements, required forms are being completed, and documentation is being maintained. Management’s Response--Corrective Action Plan: Contact person is Rufus Adams, Executive Director, 275 East Wall Street, P.O. Box 837, Benton Harbor, Michigan 49023. Telephone (269) 927-2268. The Authority will review and update its procurement policy to comply with federal requirements. The Authority’s management, consultant, and finance director will review the procedures in the policy to ensure they are being acted upon accordingly going forward.
Failure to Follow Procurement Policy Finding 2023-003 Condition: The Authority did not comply with the current procurement policy as procedures were not fully followed and forms required by the Authority’s procurement policy were not completed. The following forms required by either 2 CFR 200 and/or the Authority’s own procurement policy were not completed for the current year capital asset purchases: Written Record of Procurement Checklist Form, Method of Procurement Decision Matrix, Advertisement and Solicitation Form, Bid Quotations, Fewer Than 3 Offers Received Evaluation if applicable, Proposal Tabulation, Certification of Compliance with Federal Clauses for the assets less than $25,000, and Responsibility Determination (sam.gov debarred verification). Also, as stated in the prior finding, the procurement policy needs to be updated. Criteria: According to 2 CFR 200.214 Suspension and Debarment, Non-Federal entities are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. The following excerpts are from 2 CFR Part 200.318 General Procurement Standards. (a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. (i) the non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. According to 2 CFR 200.320 Methods of Procurement to be Followed, the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or sub-award. Concurrently, the Authority’s did not comply with its own current procurement policy as it did not follow or prepare the required documentation detailed in the following sections. Procurement Requests-The Authority will maintain sufficient records to detail the history of a procurement. Such records shall include method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection (or rejection), and the contract price. The Authority will treat any prospective contractor or sub-contractor listed on a centralized State government debarment and suspension list as nonresponsible and ineligible for contract award. Debarment and Suspension- The Authority will treat any prospective contractor or sub-contractor listed on a centralized State government debarment and suspension list as non-responsible and ineligible for contract awards. To see if a prospective contractor is eligible, we will look on the website www.SAM.gov and when the bid has been received. Methods of Procurement- a. Micro and Emergency Purchases (do not exceed $10,000)-(a) A written determination as to why price is deemed fair and reasonable must be on file with each purchase made under this method of procurement using Micro-Purchase Price Reasonableness Determination Form. (b) Splitting of procurements to avoid the competitive procurement requirements of federal and state statues shall not be condoned. b. Small Purchase Procurement ($10,000 to $250,000)-(a) A minimum of two price or rate quotations shall be obtained from qualified sources; (b) The procurement will be made from the lowest priced qualified bid, if products or goods are equal; (c) MDOT requires for procurements under $25,000.00. Included Procurement Appendix A, B, E, F, G, H, or I and Vehicle Specification certification if applies. (d) MDOT requires for procurements over $25,000.00 solicitations, including specifications and written selection procedures (lowest bids), Include Procurement Appendix A, F, G, H or I and Vehicle Specification certification if applies. Third Party Contracts with applicable clauses and bond documents must be included. Cause: The Authority did not follow its own procurement policy. Effect: The Authority is noncompliant with 2 CFR 200 and its own procurement policy. Directive: We direct the Authority review and update its procurement policy and implement procedures to ensure that the Authority is complying with the federal requirements, required forms are being completed, and documentation is being maintained. Management’s Response--Corrective Action Plan: Contact person is Rufus Adams, Executive Director, 275 East Wall Street, P.O. Box 837, Benton Harbor, Michigan 49023. Telephone (269) 927-2268. The Authority will review and update its procurement policy to comply with federal requirements. The Authority’s management, consultant, and finance director will review the procedures in the policy to ensure they are being acted upon accordingly going forward.
Failure to Follow Procurement Policy Finding 2023-003 Condition: The Authority did not comply with the current procurement policy as procedures were not fully followed and forms required by the Authority’s procurement policy were not completed. The following forms required by either 2 CFR 200 and/or the Authority’s own procurement policy were not completed for the current year capital asset purchases: Written Record of Procurement Checklist Form, Method of Procurement Decision Matrix, Advertisement and Solicitation Form, Bid Quotations, Fewer Than 3 Offers Received Evaluation if applicable, Proposal Tabulation, Certification of Compliance with Federal Clauses for the assets less than $25,000, and Responsibility Determination (sam.gov debarred verification). Also, as stated in the prior finding, the procurement policy needs to be updated. Criteria: According to 2 CFR 200.214 Suspension and Debarment, Non-Federal entities are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. The following excerpts are from 2 CFR Part 200.318 General Procurement Standards. (a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. (i) the non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. According to 2 CFR 200.320 Methods of Procurement to be Followed, the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or sub-award. Concurrently, the Authority’s did not comply with its own current procurement policy as it did not follow or prepare the required documentation detailed in the following sections. Procurement Requests-The Authority will maintain sufficient records to detail the history of a procurement. Such records shall include method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection (or rejection), and the contract price. The Authority will treat any prospective contractor or sub-contractor listed on a centralized State government debarment and suspension list as nonresponsible and ineligible for contract award. Debarment and Suspension- The Authority will treat any prospective contractor or sub-contractor listed on a centralized State government debarment and suspension list as non-responsible and ineligible for contract awards. To see if a prospective contractor is eligible, we will look on the website www.SAM.gov and when the bid has been received. Methods of Procurement- a. Micro and Emergency Purchases (do not exceed $10,000)-(a) A written determination as to why price is deemed fair and reasonable must be on file with each purchase made under this method of procurement using Micro-Purchase Price Reasonableness Determination Form. (b) Splitting of procurements to avoid the competitive procurement requirements of federal and state statues shall not be condoned. b. Small Purchase Procurement ($10,000 to $250,000)-(a) A minimum of two price or rate quotations shall be obtained from qualified sources; (b) The procurement will be made from the lowest priced qualified bid, if products or goods are equal; (c) MDOT requires for procurements under $25,000.00. Included Procurement Appendix A, B, E, F, G, H, or I and Vehicle Specification certification if applies. (d) MDOT requires for procurements over $25,000.00 solicitations, including specifications and written selection procedures (lowest bids), Include Procurement Appendix A, F, G, H or I and Vehicle Specification certification if applies. Third Party Contracts with applicable clauses and bond documents must be included. Cause: The Authority did not follow its own procurement policy. Effect: The Authority is noncompliant with 2 CFR 200 and its own procurement policy. Directive: We direct the Authority review and update its procurement policy and implement procedures to ensure that the Authority is complying with the federal requirements, required forms are being completed, and documentation is being maintained. Management’s Response--Corrective Action Plan: Contact person is Rufus Adams, Executive Director, 275 East Wall Street, P.O. Box 837, Benton Harbor, Michigan 49023. Telephone (269) 927-2268. The Authority will review and update its procurement policy to comply with federal requirements. The Authority’s management, consultant, and finance director will review the procedures in the policy to ensure they are being acted upon accordingly going forward.
Failure to Follow Procurement Policy Finding 2023-003 Condition: The Authority did not comply with the current procurement policy as procedures were not fully followed and forms required by the Authority’s procurement policy were not completed. The following forms required by either 2 CFR 200 and/or the Authority’s own procurement policy were not completed for the current year capital asset purchases: Written Record of Procurement Checklist Form, Method of Procurement Decision Matrix, Advertisement and Solicitation Form, Bid Quotations, Fewer Than 3 Offers Received Evaluation if applicable, Proposal Tabulation, Certification of Compliance with Federal Clauses for the assets less than $25,000, and Responsibility Determination (sam.gov debarred verification). Also, as stated in the prior finding, the procurement policy needs to be updated. Criteria: According to 2 CFR 200.214 Suspension and Debarment, Non-Federal entities are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. The following excerpts are from 2 CFR Part 200.318 General Procurement Standards. (a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. (i) the non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. According to 2 CFR 200.320 Methods of Procurement to be Followed, the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or sub-award. Concurrently, the Authority’s did not comply with its own current procurement policy as it did not follow or prepare the required documentation detailed in the following sections. Procurement Requests-The Authority will maintain sufficient records to detail the history of a procurement. Such records shall include method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection (or rejection), and the contract price. The Authority will treat any prospective contractor or sub-contractor listed on a centralized State government debarment and suspension list as nonresponsible and ineligible for contract award. Debarment and Suspension- The Authority will treat any prospective contractor or sub-contractor listed on a centralized State government debarment and suspension list as non-responsible and ineligible for contract awards. To see if a prospective contractor is eligible, we will look on the website www.SAM.gov and when the bid has been received. Methods of Procurement- a. Micro and Emergency Purchases (do not exceed $10,000)-(a) A written determination as to why price is deemed fair and reasonable must be on file with each purchase made under this method of procurement using Micro-Purchase Price Reasonableness Determination Form. (b) Splitting of procurements to avoid the competitive procurement requirements of federal and state statues shall not be condoned. b. Small Purchase Procurement ($10,000 to $250,000)-(a) A minimum of two price or rate quotations shall be obtained from qualified sources; (b) The procurement will be made from the lowest priced qualified bid, if products or goods are equal; (c) MDOT requires for procurements under $25,000.00. Included Procurement Appendix A, B, E, F, G, H, or I and Vehicle Specification certification if applies. (d) MDOT requires for procurements over $25,000.00 solicitations, including specifications and written selection procedures (lowest bids), Include Procurement Appendix A, F, G, H or I and Vehicle Specification certification if applies. Third Party Contracts with applicable clauses and bond documents must be included. Cause: The Authority did not follow its own procurement policy. Effect: The Authority is noncompliant with 2 CFR 200 and its own procurement policy. Directive: We direct the Authority review and update its procurement policy and implement procedures to ensure that the Authority is complying with the federal requirements, required forms are being completed, and documentation is being maintained. Management’s Response--Corrective Action Plan: Contact person is Rufus Adams, Executive Director, 275 East Wall Street, P.O. Box 837, Benton Harbor, Michigan 49023. Telephone (269) 927-2268. The Authority will review and update its procurement policy to comply with federal requirements. The Authority’s management, consultant, and finance director will review the procedures in the policy to ensure they are being acted upon accordingly going forward.
Type of Finding: Material Weakness - Internal Control Criteria: Uniform Guidance states recipients of Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (CLFRF) are responsible for ensuring any procurement using CLFRF funds are consistent with the procurement standards set forth in the Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200.214). Condition: The County failed to implement and monitor suspension and debarment procedures to comply with the Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200.214). Cause: Procedures were not put in place to monitor the procurement procedures conducted by the independent contractor to assure compliance with the Uniform Guidance standards. Effect: Contracts may have been awarded to ineligible vendors. Questioned Costs: None Recommendation: Procedures should be put in place to monitor and comply with the Uniform Guidance procurement standards. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective action:
Type of Finding: Material Non-compliance Criteria: Uniform Guidance procurement standards (2 CFR 200.214) state recipients of Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds are prohibited from entering into subawards and contracts with parties that are debarred, suspended or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal Assistance programs. Condition: The County failed to comply with the Uniform Guidance procurement standards (2 CFR 200.214) regarding suspension and debarment. Cause: The County's procurement procedures did not include procedures for vetting vendors with regard to suspension and debarment from participating in federal assistance programs. Effect: Contracts may have been awarded to vendors ineligible to participate in the federal assistance program. Questioned Cost: None Recommendation: Procedures should be put in place to comply with the Uniform Guidance procurement standards regarding suspension and debarment. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective action:
Criteria - According to the Coronavirus State and Local Recover Funds (CSLRF) Final Rule, Suspension and Debarment is covered under CFR 200.214 in Subpart C, which is fully applicable under the revenue replacement method. As such, suspension and debarment should be evaluated and documented for all non-payroll expenditures under the program. Condition - During our testing, it was noted that 6 of 6 of the vendor selections tested for this program did not have suspension and debarment evaluated or documented prior to the purchase. In addition, there was no formal control policy for the City to evaluate and document suspension and debarment for expenditures in this program. Cause - The City was unaware of this requirement applied to CSLRF funding under the revenue replacement method and, due to the timing of the previous audit, did not correct this issue for fiscal year 2023. Effect - By not evaluating suspension and debarment for the expenditures of this program, expenditures could be made that do not comply with the program requirements for suspension and debarment. Recommendation - We recommend that suspension and debarment be evaluated and documented for all expenditures made for this program and that a formal control policy for suspension and debarment be considered for such purchases.
Criteria: According to 2 CFR section 200.318(c) and 48 CFR sections 52.203-13 and 52.303-16, an entity should have written standards of conduct to cover conflicts of interest and govern the performance of its employees engaged in the selection, award, and administration of contracts. According to 2 CFR section 200.214, an entity is subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations. Condition: During our testing of federal award expenditures, it was noted that there were no formal written policies in place for standards of conducts covering conflict of interests for employees engaged in the selection, award, and administration of contracts nor to determine if a vendor is suspended or disbarred. Recommendation: The City should create policies and procedures for applicable requirements in order to comply with Federal regulations including procedures that cover conflicts of interest and govern the performance of its employees engaged in the selection, award, and administration of contracts and for procedures to determine whether vendors have been suspended or debarred prior to entering into contracts or purchase orders for all transactions and maintain documentation supporting this verification View of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action: 1. Develop Comprehensive Policies and Procedures: Policy Development: Create policies that align with federal, state, and municipal regulations governing conflicts of interest and employee conduct in contract selection, award, and administration. Conflicts of Interest Policy: Define clear guidelines and procedures for identifying, disclosing, managing, and mitigating conflicts of interest among employees involved in contracting activities. Contract Administration Procedures: Establish detailed procedures that encompass the entire contract lifecycle, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and municipal requirements at every stage. Training and Awareness: Conduct training sessions for employees involved in contracting to ensure understanding and adherence to the newly developed policies, procedures and current bid law regulations set forth by the State of Alabama. 2. Implement Procedures for Vendor Evaluation and Debarment Checks: Vendor Evaluation Process: Develop standardized procedures for evaluating vendors before entering into contracts, including criteria for assessing qualifications, capabilities, and compliance with regulatory requirements. Debarment Check Procedure: Establish a systematic procedure to verify whether potential vendors have been suspended or debarred by federal, state, or municipal authorities prior to initiating contract negotiations. Documentation Requirements: Specify the documentation that must be collected and maintained to demonstrate compliance with vendor evaluation and debarment check procedures. 3. Maintain Comprehensive Documentation: Document Retention Policy: Create a policy outlining requirements for retaining all documentation related to contracts, including vendor evaluations, debarment checks, contract awards, modifications, and performance records. Centralized Documentation Management: Implement a centralized system or repository for storing and managing contract-related documentation, ensuring accessibility, security, and compliance with retention policies. Audit Trail: Maintain a clear audit trail for all contract-related activities, documenting decisionmaking processes and actions taken to ensure accountability and compliance. 4. Monitoring and Compliance Oversight: Monitoring Mechanisms: Establish mechanisms for ongoing monitoring of compliance with federal, state, and municipal regulations, as well as internal policies related to conflicts of interest, contract administration, and vendor debarment checks. Regular Audits: Conduct regular audits of contract management practices and documentation to identify any deviations from established procedures and regulatory requirements. Reporting and Accountability: Implement a reporting structure that provides regular updates to management and stakeholders on compliance status, audit findings, and corrective actions taken to address deficiencies. 5. Continuous Improvement and Adaptation: Feedback and Review: Encourage feedback from employees involved in contract management to identify opportunities for improving policies, procedures, and compliance practices. Benchmarking: Benchmark contract management practices against industry standards, best practices, and regulatory changes to continuously enhance processes and ensure alignment with evolving requirements. Adaptation to Changes: Stay informed about updates and changes in federal, state, and municipal regulations impacting conflicts of interest, contract administration, and vendor management, and update policies and procedures accordingly.
Finding No.: 2023-003 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Treasury Federal Communications Commission AL Program: COVID-19 21.027 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds COVID-19 32.006 Telehealth Program Requirement: Suspension & Debarment Questioned Costs: $0 Criteria: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.214, non-Federal entities are subject to the non- procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing 2 CFR 180. Such regulation restricts awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Under 2 CFR 180.300, when entering into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, verification must be made that the person with whom an intent to do business with is not excluded or disqualified. Such verification can be made by (a) checking SAM Exclusions, (b) collecting a certification from that person; or (c) adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. Condition: The Authority did not properly document that verification was performed to identify if the selected person or entity in the covered transaction was not suspended or debarred prior to transacting with them. Cause: The Authority did not properly document that verification was performed to identify if the selected person or entity in the covered transaction was not suspended or debarred prior to transacting with them. Effect: The Authority is in noncompliance with the applicable requirement. Recommendation: The Authority should revisit and implement its procedures to ensure that vendors and entities that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities are restricted from Federal awards, subawards and contracts. Procedures performed should be adequately maintained in the procurement files. Views of Responsible Officials: GMHA's corrective action plan does not indicate disagreement and provides planned corrective actions.
Finding No.: 2023-003 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Treasury Federal Communications Commission AL Program: COVID-19 21.027 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds COVID-19 32.006 Telehealth Program Requirement: Suspension & Debarment Questioned Costs: $0 Criteria: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.214, non-Federal entities are subject to the non- procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing 2 CFR 180. Such regulation restricts awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Under 2 CFR 180.300, when entering into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, verification must be made that the person with whom an intent to do business with is not excluded or disqualified. Such verification can be made by (a) checking SAM Exclusions, (b) collecting a certification from that person; or (c) adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. Condition: The Authority did not properly document that verification was performed to identify if the selected person or entity in the covered transaction was not suspended or debarred prior to transacting with them. Cause: The Authority did not properly document that verification was performed to identify if the selected person or entity in the covered transaction was not suspended or debarred prior to transacting with them. Effect: The Authority is in noncompliance with the applicable requirement. Recommendation: The Authority should revisit and implement its procedures to ensure that vendors and entities that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities are restricted from Federal awards, subawards and contracts. Procedures performed should be adequately maintained in the procurement files. Views of Responsible Officials: GMHA's corrective action plan does not indicate disagreement and provides planned corrective actions.
Finding 2023-004 – PROCUREMENT Type: Material Weakness in Internal Control/Noncompliance. Program: ALN 93.493 Congressional Directives Criteria: Pursuant to 2 CFR 200.320, when a procurement transaction under a Federal award exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, formal procurement methods are required. Pursuant to 2 CFR 200.214 and 2 CFR part 180, prior to entering into a covered transaction, a nonfederal entity must verify that the person with whom they intend to do business is not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded or disqualified.” Condition: The CMHSP did not follow the formal procurement methods outlined in 2 CFR 200.320 prior to entering into contracts for services under the grant. Also, the CMHSP did not verify that the vendors were not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded or disqualified in accordance with 2 CFR requirements prior to entering into a contract for services under the grant. Cause: This condition was caused by an insufficient internal control process for review and approval of procurements/check for suspension and debarment. Effect: The CMHSP purchased several items that did not have the proper documentation/support of the procurement process. Questioned Cost: $749,624 Context: Three contracts were paid from grant funds. The questioned costs shown above reflect the amount paid from grant funds for the year pursuant to those contracts. Also, upon subsequent review, it was determined that the vendor was not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded or disqualified. Recommendation: We recommend that the CMHSP review their internal controls and make necessary changes to ensure that purchases adhere to the CMHSP’s procurement policy. Management’s Resp: We are in agreement with this finding.
Finding No.: 2023-016 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of the Interior AL Program: 15.875 Economic, Social, and Political Development of the Territories Federal Award No.: Compact of Free Association, As Amended Questioned Costs: $314,943 Area: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Criteria: Section 200.317 of 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards states that, when procuring property and services under a Federal award, a state must follow the same policies and procedures it uses for procurements from its non-Federal funds. RepMar’s Procurement Code states the following: (a) Section 124 - unless otherwise authorized by law, all Government contracts shall be awarded by competitive sealed bidding. (b) Section 127 - procurement of goods and services not exceeding $25,000 may be made in accordance with small purchase procedures promulgated by RepMar’s Policy Office. Small purchase procedures are those relatively simple and informal methods for securing services, supplies, or other property that do not cost more than $25,000. RepMar’s Ministry of Finance, Banking and Postal Services has previously declared that if small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations shall be obtained from three qualified sources. (c) Section 128 - a contract may be awarded for a supply, service, or construction item without competition when it is determined in writing that there is only one source for the required supply, service, or construction item. The RMI Procurement Regulations Pursuant to the Procurement Code Act 1988 (RMI Procurement Regulations) Sections 5 and 6 stipulate procedures pertaining to suspension or debarment of persons who shall not be considered for award of contracts. 2 CFR 200.214 states that recipients and subrecipients are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, as well as 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict making Federal awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from receiving or participating in Federal awards. 2 CFR 180.300 states that when an entity enters into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, the entity must verify that the person with whom the entity intends to do business is not excluded or disqualified by doing the following: (a) Checking SAM.gov Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. Furthermore, 2 CFR 200.303(a) states that a recipient of a Federal award must establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 1: For 8 (or 12%) of 65 procurement transactions tested, aggregating $6,463,583 of $16,926,745 in total transactions subject to procurement requirements, there was no procurement file provided to substantiate compliance with applicable procurement requirements as follows: Item # Fund # Voucher # Amount 1 10410 22/00001589 JOURNAL $ 11,581 2 10409 22/00001587 JOURNAL 167,852 3 10401 22/00003286 PINVOICE 21,178 4 10406 22/00003856 PINVOICE 9,950 5 10406 22/00005332 PINVOICE 10,275 6 10401 22/00000717 PINVOICE 23,247 7 10406 22/00005350 PINVOICE 24,995 8 10406 22/00001939 PINVOICE 10,437 $ 279,515 Condition 2: For 3 (or 5%) of 65 procurement transactions tested, aggregating $6,463,583 of $16,926,745 in total transactions, the procurement documentation is insufficient to support the rationale for vendor selection in accordance with 2 CFR section 200.323 and 48 CFR section 15.404-3. Item # Fund # Voucher # Amount 1 10402 22/00003565 PINVOICE $ 4,784 2 10402 22/00004883 PINVOICE 5,000 3 10406 22/00002441 PV 660 $ 10,444 For 9 (or 14%) of 65 procurement transactions tested, aggregating $6,463,583 of $16,926,745 in total transactions, supporting procurement documentation was not sufficient to substantiate compliance with applicable procurement requirements as follows: Item # Fund # Voucher # Amount 1 10402 22/00004885 PINVOICE $ 5,000 2 10402 22/00005513 PINVOICE 1,430 3 10406 22/00003035 PV 508 4 10406 22/00011377 PV 4,870 5 10406 22/00000549 PV 336 6 10403 22/00011927 PV 2,319 7 10401 22/00001875 PINVOICE 2,195 8 10402 22/00003839 PV 2,565 9 10402 22/00000269 PV 5,761 $ 24,984 No quotations/ cost comparison were provided for the items. The procurement documentation is insufficient to demonstrate compliance with applicable procurement requirements. Condition 4: Documented evidence of compliance with RMI Procurement Regulations and 2 CFR 200.214 and 2 CFR 180.300 regarding debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded persons or entities was not made available. Cause: RepMar did not enforce internal control policies and procedures over documentation of the procurement process to satisfy compliance with applicable procurement requirements. Effect: RepMar is in noncompliance with applicable procurement requirements. The reportable questioned cost is $314,943. Identification as a Repeat Finding: Finding No. 2022-006 Recommendation: Responsible personnel should require that documentation be adequate to comply with applicable procurement requirements. Specifically, documentation should indicate the history of procurement, including the rationale for contractor or vendor selection. Views of Responsible Officials: RepMar’s Corrective Action Plan does not indicate disagreement and provides planned corrective action.
Finding No.: 2023-017 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services AL Program: 93.323 Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity for Infectious Diseases Federal Award No.: NU50CK000558 Questioned Costs: $6,500 Area: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Criteria: Section 200.317 of 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards states that, when procuring property and services under a Federal award, a state must follow the same policies and procedures it uses for procurements from its non-Federal funds. RepMar’s Procurement Code states the following: (a) Section 124 - unless otherwise authorized by law, all Government contracts shall be awarded by competitive sealed bidding. (b) Section 125 – (1) contracts shall be awarded by competitive sealed bidding. (2) An invitation for bids shall be issued and shall include a purchase description and all contractual terms and conditions applicable to the procurement. (3) adequate public notice of the invitation for bids shall be given a reasonable time. (4) Bids shall be opened publicly in the presence of one or more witnesses at the time and place designated in the invitation for bid. (5) Bids shall be unconditionally accepted without alteration or correction. (c) Section 127 - procurement of goods and services not exceeding $25,000 may be made in accordance with small purchase procedures promulgated by RepMar’s Policy Office. Small purchase procedures are those relatively simple and informal methods for securing services, supplies, or other property that do not cost more than $25,000. RepMar’s Ministry of Finance, Banking and Postal Services has previously declared that if small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations shall be obtained from three qualified sources. (d) Section 128 - a contract may be awarded for a supply, service, or construction item without competition when it is determined in writing that there is only one source for the required supply, service, or construction item. The RMI Procurement Regulations Pursuant to the Procurement Code Act 1988 (RMI Procurement Regulations) Sections 5 and 6 stipulate procedures pertaining to suspension or debarment of persons who shall not be considered for award of contracts. 2 CFR 200.214 states that recipients and subrecipients are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, as well as 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict making Federal awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from receiving or participating in Federal awards. 2 CFR 180.300 states that when an entity enters into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, the entity must verify that the person with whom the entity intends to do business is not excluded or disqualified by doing the following: (a) Checking SAM.gov Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. Furthermore, 2 CFR 200.303(a) states that a recipient of a Federal award must establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 1: For 1 (or 6%) of 17 procurement transactions tested, aggregating $89,724 of $1,985,592 in total transactions subject to procurement requirements, no procurement file was provided to substantiate vendor selection. Item # Reference # Expenditure Amount Questioned Cost 1 22/00001586 $ 4,000 $ 4,000 Condition 2: For 1 (or 6%) of 17 procurement transactions tested, aggregating $89,724 of $1,985,592 in total transactions, supporting procurement documentation was not sufficient to substantiate compliance with applicable procurement requirements as follows: Item # Reference # Expenditure Amount Questioned Cost 1 22/00002281 $ 2,500 $ 2,500 Condition 3: Documented evidence of compliance with RMI Procurement Regulations and 2 CFR 200.214 and 2 CFR 180.300 regarding debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded persons or entities was not made available. Cause: RepMar did not enforce adequate internal control policies and procedures over documentation of the procurement process to satisfy compliance with applicable procurement requirements. Further, RepMar lacks policies and procedures requiring verification of the status of an entity with which RepMar intends to enter into a covered transaction. Effect: RepMar is in noncompliance with applicable procurement requirements. Accordingly, questioned costs of $6,500 result because the projected questioned cost amount exceeds the $25,000 threshold. Identification as a Repeat Finding: Finding No. 2022-008 Recommendation: Responsible personnel should require that documentation be adequate to comply with applicable procurement requirements and regulations. Specifically, documentation should indicate the history of procurement, including the rationale for contractor or vendor selection, and verification of whether an entity or person with whom RepMar intends to do business is not excluded or disqualified. Views of Responsible Officials: RepMar’s Corrective Action Plan does not indicate disagreement and provides planned corrective action.
Criteria: 1. In accordance with 2 CFR § 200.319(a), all procurement transactions under a Federal award must be conducted in a manner that provides full and open competition. Further, 2 CFR § 200.320(a)(1)(i) requires that, to the extent practicable, micro‑purchases be distributed equitably among qualified suppliers. 2. 2 CFR § 200.214 subjects non‑Federal entities to the non-procurement suspension and debarment regulations in 2 CFR part 180, which restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from Federal awards. Under 2 CFR § 180.300, before entering into a covered transaction with another person or entity at the next lower tier, the non Federal entity must verify that the party is not excluded or disqualified. This verification may be completed by reviewing the SAM.gov Exclusions, obtaining a certification from the entity, or including an appropriate suspension and debarment clause or condition in the contract or agreement. Further, in accordance with 2 CFR § 200.318(i), non‑federal entities must maintain records sufficient to document the history of procurement transactions; and 2 CFR § 200.334 requires retention of all supporting documentation for Federal awards. Together, these regulations require that documentation of the suspension and debarment verification be retained to demonstrate compliance with Federal procurement and suspension and debarment requirements. Condition: 1. The Republic’s procurement regulation § 625(c)(3) permits small purchases under $2,500 after obtaining one written price quotation. However, the policy does not demonstrate full and open competition to ensure that to the extent practicable, small purchases are distributed equitably among qualified suppliers. Of the 131 procurement transactions, 54 were identified as within the threshold established under § 625(c)(3)No. No. of Transactions General Ledger Account Name Amount 1 20 General Supplies $ 16,123 2 18 Fuel & Other Pol Products 9,220 3 7 Advertising 5,480 4 4 All Other Rentals 3,467 5 3 Boat Rentals 4,900 6 1 Medical Supplies 364 7 1 Vehicle Cycle Etc Rentl 540 Total: 54 $ 40,094 2. The Republic represents that vendors are verified in SAM.gov before entering into covered transactions; however, no documentation was retained to demonstrate that the required verification occurred. Documentation such as screenshots, printouts, approval records, or other system‑based evidence showing that the SAM.gov check was performed, was not available in the procurement or vendor files. Of the 57 purchase orders issued during the year ended September 30, 2023, 4 were identified as covered transactions subject to federal suspension and debarment requirements, totaling $1,978,024. No. Purchase Order # Vendor Amount 1 22301491 PATIENT FOCUS ARFICA (PTY) TD. $ 48,349 2 22303764 ARC CONSULTANCY 131,924 3 22305075 GOPHER SPORT 95,036 4 PC2 ROJECT BELAU SUBMARINE CABLE CORPORATION 1,702,715 Total: $ 1,978,024 Auditor verification of the above vendors in SAM.gov did not identify any as suspended or debarred. However, the absence of documentation prevents the Republic from demonstrating compliance with Federal suspension and debarment requirements. Cause: The Republic’s procurement policy does not ensure full and open competition for small purchases due to lack of required procedures to equitably distribute small purchases among qualified suppliers. Additionally, the Republic’s procurement procedures do not require the retention of documentation evidencing that suspension and debarment checks were performed. Effect: The Republic is not in compliance with Federal procurement, suspension and debarment requirements. Without federally compliant procedures and supporting documentation, the extent of questioned costs cannot be determined, resulting in an undeterminable question cost. Identification as a Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend that the Republic update its procurement policies and procedures to include specific guidance to ensure full and open competition to equitably distribute small purchases among available qualified suppliers. Management should ensure that documentation supporting the basis for supplier selection is consistently maintained in procurement files. Additionally, we recommend that the Republic strengthen its procurement and vendor‑approval procedures to require retention of evidence demonstrating that suspension and debarment verification was performed for each covered transaction. Acceptable documentation may include date‑stamped screenshots of the SAM.gov search, system‑generated verification logs, or signed certifications. Documentation should be consistently retained in the procurement or vendor file to support compliance with Federal requirements. Views of Responsible Officials: The Republic’s Corrective Action Plan does not indicate disagreement and provides planned corrective action.
Criteria: 1. In accordance with 2 CFR § 200.319(a), all procurement transactions under a Federal award must be conducted in a manner that provides full and open competition. Further, 2 CFR § 200.320(a)(1)(i) requires that, to the extent practicable, micro‑purchases be distributed equitably among qualified suppliers. 2. 2 CFR § 200.214 subjects non‑Federal entities to the non-procurement suspension and debarment regulations in 2 CFR part 180, which restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from Federal awards. Under 2 CFR § 180.300, before entering into a covered transaction with another person or entity at the next lower tier, the non Federal entity must verify that the party is not excluded or disqualified. This verification may be completed by reviewing the SAM.gov Exclusions, obtaining a certification from the entity, or including an appropriate suspension and debarment clause or condition in the contract or agreement. Further, in accordance with 2 CFR § 200.318(i), non‑federal entities must maintain records sufficient to document the history of procurement transactions, and 2 CFR § 200.334 requires retention of all supporting documentation for Federal awards. Together, these regulations require that documentation of the suspension and debarment verification be retained to demonstrate compliance with Federal procurement and suspension and debarment requirements. Condition: 1. The Republic’s procurement regulation § 625(c)(3) permits purchases under $2,500 after obtaining one written price quotation. However, the policy does not demonstrate full and open competition to ensure that to the extent practicable, small purchases are distributed equitably among qualified suppliers. Of the 143 procurement transactions, 46 were identified as within the threshold established under § 625(c)(3). No. No. of transactions GL Account Name Amount 1 19 Machinery & Equip Repair $ 6,103 2 24 General Supplies 17,106 3 1 Professional 425 4 1 Advertising 500 5 1 Conference 504 Total: 46 $ 24,638 2. The Republic represents that vendors are verified in SAM.gov before entering into covered transactions; however, no documentation was retained to demonstrate that the required verification occurred. Documentation such as screenshots, printouts, approval records, or other system‑based evidence showing that the SAM.gov check was performed was not available in the procurement or vendor files. Of the 38 purchase orders issued during the year ended September 30, 2023, 2 were identified as covered transactions subject to federal suspension and debarment requirements, totaling $92,149. No. Purchase Order # Vendor Amount 1 22305991 EDHANNAH EDUCATION CONSULTING SERVICES $ 21,000 2 22300871 GUAM CEDDERS 71,149 Total: $ 92,149 Auditor verification of the above vendors in SAM.gov did not identify any as suspended or debarred. However, the absence of documentation prevents the Republic from demonstrating compliance with Federal suspension and debarment requirements. Cause: The Republic’s procurement policy does not ensure full and open competition for small purchases due to lack of required procedures to equitably distribute micro‑purchases among qualified suppliers. Additionally, the Republic’s procurement procedures do not require the retention of documentation evidencing that suspension and debarment checks were performed. Effect: The Republic is not in compliance with Federal procurement, suspension and debarment requirements. Without federally compliant procedures and supporting documentation, the extent of questioned costs cannot be determined, resulting in an undeterminable question cost. Identification as a Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend that the Republic update its procurement policies and procedures to include specific guidance to ensure full and open competition to equitably distribute small purchases among available qualified suppliers. Management should ensure that documentation supporting the basis for supplier selection is consistently maintained in procurement files. Additionally, we recommend that the Republic strengthen its procurement and vendor‑approval procedures to require retention of evidence demonstrating that suspension and debarment verification was performed for each covered transaction. Acceptable documentation may include date‑stamped screenshots of the SAM.gov search, system‑generated verification logs, or signed certifications. Documentation should be consistently retained in the procurement or vendor file to support compliance with Federal requirements. Views of Responsible Officials: The Republic’s Corrective Action Plan does not indicate disagreement and provides planned corrective action.
Criteria: 1. In accordance with 2 CFR § 200.319(a), all procurement transactions under a Federal award must be conducted in a manner that provides full and open competition. Further, 2 CFR § 200.320(a)(1)(i) requires that, to the extent practicable, micro‑purchases be distributed equitably among qualified suppliers. 2. 2 CFR § 200.214 subjects non‑Federal entities to the non-procurement suspension and debarment regulations in 2 CFR part 180, which restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from Federal awards. Under 2 CFR § 180.300, before entering into a covered transaction with another person or entity at the next lower tier, the non Federal entity must verify that the party is not excluded or disqualified. This verification may be completed by reviewing the SAM.gov Exclusions, obtaining a certification from the entity, or including an appropriate suspension and debarment clause or condition in the contract or agreement. Further, in accordance with 2 CFR § 200.318(i), non‑federal entities must maintain records sufficient to document the history of procurement transactions, and 2 CFR § 200.334 requires retention of all supporting documentation for Federal awards. Together, these regulations require that documentation of the suspension and debarment verification be retained to demonstrate compliance with Federal procurement and suspension and debarment requirements. Condition: 1. The Republic’s procurement regulation § 625(c)(3) permits purchases under $2,500 after obtaining one written price quotation. However, the policy does not demonstrate full and open competition to ensure that small purchases are distributed equitably among qualified suppliers. Of the 583 procurement transactions, 140 were identified as within the threshold established under § 625(c)(3). No. No. of Transactions General Ledger Account Name Amount 1 7 Boat Rentals $ 9,400 2 64 General Supplies 60,349 3 7 Advertising 1,045 4 6 Conference 11,800 5 1 All Other Purchased Serv 1,999 6 39 Vehicle Cycle Repair 7,987 7 12 Building/Space Rentals 5,830 8 4 Machinery & Equip Repair 837 Total: 140 $ 99,247 2. The Republic represents that vendors are verified in SAM.gov before entering into covered transactions; however, no documentation was retained to demonstrate that the required verification occurred. Documentation such as screenshots, printouts, approval records, or other system‑based evidence showing that the SAM.gov check was performed was not available in the procurement or vendor files. Of the 185 purchase orders issued during the year ended September 30, 2023, 19 were identified as covered transactions subject to federal suspension and debarment requirements, totaling $2,101,228, of which 12 totaling $1,919,175 were selected for testing. No. Purchase Order # Vendor Amount 1 22300843 MEDPHARM $ 93,032 2 22301907 PACIFIC SOURCE INC. LTD. 490,573 3 22301908 PACIFIC SOURCE INC. LTD. 512,382 4 22301909 PACIFIC SOURCE INC. LTD. 463,320 5 22302788 MEDPHARM 111,550 6 22300845 MD WHOLESALE 55,160 7 22301465 MD WHOLESALE 11,952 8 22302557 MD WHOLESALE 29,607 9 22302790 MEDPHARM 80,946 10 22303546 G&N CLEANING EXPRESS 16,560 11 22306254 ARC HEALTH 37,125 12 22307066 MD WHOLESALE 16,968 Total: $ 1,919,175 Auditor verification of the above vendors in SAM.gov did not identify any as suspended or debarred. However, the absence of documentation prevents the Republic from demonstrating compliance with Federal suspension and debarment requirements. Cause: The Republic’s procurement policy does not ensure full and open competition for small purchases and does not include procedures to equitably distribute micro‑purchases among qualified suppliers. Additionally, the Republic’s procurement and vendor compliance procedures do not require the retention of documentation evidencing that suspension and debarment checks were performed. Effect: The Republic is not in compliance with Federal procurement, suspension and debarment requirements. Without federally compliant procedures and supporting documentation, the extent of questioned costs cannot be determined, resulting in an undeterminable question cost. Identification as a Repeat Finding: Finding 2022-009 Recommendation: We recommend that the Republic update its procurement policies and procedures to include specific guidance to ensure full and open competition and to equitably distribute micro‑purchases among qualified suppliers. Management should ensure that documentation supporting the basis for supplier selection is consistently maintained in procurement files. Additionally, we recommend that the Republic strengthen its procurement and vendor‑approval procedures to require retention of evidence demonstrating that suspension and debarment verification was performed for each covered transaction. Acceptable documentation may include date‑stamped screenshots of the SAM.gov search, system‑generated verification logs, or signed certifications. Documentation should be consistently retained in the procurement or vendor file to support compliance with Federal requirements. Views of Responsible Officials: The Republic’s Corrective Action Plan does not indicate disagreement and provides planned corrective action.
Criteria: 1. In accordance with 2 CFR § 200.319(a), all procurement transactions under a Federal award must be conducted in a manner that provides full and open competition. Further, 2 CFR § 200.320(a)(1)(i) requires that, to the extent practicable, micro‑purchases be distributed equitably among qualified suppliers. 2. 2 CFR § 200.214 subjects non‑Federal entities to the non-procurement suspension and debarment regulations in 2 CFR part 180, which restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from Federal awards. Under 2 CFR § 180.300, before entering into a covered transaction with another person or entity at the next lower tier, the non Federal entity must verify that the party is not excluded or disqualified. This verification may be completed by reviewing the SAM.gov Exclusions, obtaining a certification from the entity, or including an appropriate suspension and debarment clause or condition in the contract or agreement. Further, in accordance with 2 CFR § 200.318(i), non‑federal entities must maintain records sufficient to document the history of procurement transactions, and 2 CFR § 200.334 requires retention of all supporting documentation for Federal awards. Together, these regulations require that documentation of the suspension and debarment verification be retained to demonstrate compliance with Federal procurement and suspension and debarment requirements. Condition: 1. The Republic’s procurement regulation § 625(c)(3) permits small purchases under $2,500 after obtaining one written price quotation. However, the policy does not demonstrate full and open competition to ensure that micro‑purchases are distributed equitably among qualified suppliers. Of the 224 procurement transactions, 72 were identified as within the threshold established under § 625(c)(3). Condition, continued: No. No. of transactions General Ledger Account Name Amount 1 18 General Supplies $ 19,541 2 1 All Other Rentals 240 3 13 Freight 6,894 4 3 Boat Rentals 3,000 5 3 All Other Purchased Serv 1,635 6 3 Conference 6,463 7 5 Vehicle Cycle Repair 628 8 11 Advertising 4,309 9 1 Dues & Fees 700 10 3 Machinery & Equip Repair 899 11 11 Fuel & Other Pol Products 5,865 Total: 72 $ 50,174 2. The Republic represents that vendors are verified in SAM.gov before entering into covered transactions; however, no documentation was retained to demonstrate that the required verification occurred. Documentation such as screenshots, printouts, approval records, or other system‑based evidence showing that the SAM.gov check was performed was not available in the procurement or vendor files. Of the 70 purchase orders issued during the year ended September 30, 2023, 7 were identified as covered transactions subject to federal suspension and debarment requirements totaling $229,639. No. Purchase Order # Vendor Amount 1 22300343 TLAU T. RIDPATH $ 32,500 2 22301468 MD WHOLESALE 5,371 3 22302270 UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII - OFFICE OF RESEARCH SERVICES 59,738 4 22304018 JMI-EDISON 93,300 5 22304084 SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION 7,500 6 22306331 BELAU MEDICAL CLINIC 21,870 7 22307680 DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY SERVICES, INC 9,360 Total: $ 229,639 Condition, continued: Auditor verification of the above vendors in SAM.gov not identify any as suspended or debarred. However, the absence of documentation prevents the Republic from demonstrating compliance with Federal suspension and debarment requirements. Cause: The Republic’s procurement policy does not ensure full and open competition for small purchases due to lack of procedures to equitably distribute small purchases among qualified suppliers. Additionally, the Republic’s procurement and vendor compliance procedures do not require the retention of documentation evidencing that suspension and debarment checks were performed. Effect: The Republic is not in compliance with Federal procurement, suspension and debarment requirements. Without federally compliant procedures and supporting documentation, the extent of questioned costs cannot be determined, resulting in an undeterminable question cost. Identification as a Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend that the Republic update its procurement policies and procedures to include specific guidance to ensure full and open competition and to equitably distribute small purchases among available qualified suppliers. Management should ensure that documentation supporting the basis for supplier selection is consistently maintained in procurement files. Additionally, we recommend that the Republic strengthen its procurement and vendor‑approval procedures to require retention of evidence demonstrating that suspension and debarment verification was performed for each covered transaction. Acceptable documentation may include date‑stamped screenshots of the SAM.gov search, system‑generated verification logs, or signed certifications. Documentation should be consistently retained in the procurement or vendor file to support compliance with Federal requirements. Views of Responsible Officials: The Republic’s Corrective Action Plan does not indicate disagreement and provides planned corrective action.
U.S. Department of the Treasury COVID-19 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds, Award Years: 2021, 2022 Criteria or Specific Requirement - Suspension and Debarment In accordance with 2 CFR 200.214, non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred. “Covered transactions” include contracts for goods and services awarded under a non-procurement transaction (e.g., grant or cooperative agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000 or meet certain other criteria as specified in 2 CFR Section 180.220. In accordance with 2 CFR Section 180.300, when a non-federal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the non-federal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR Section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred. Per 2 CFR 200.303, the non-Federal entities receiving federal awards (i.e., auditee management) should establish and maintain internal control design to reasonably ensure compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. Condition: During our test work over suspension and debarment compliance requirements, we determined checks were not completed prior to entering into contracts for two out of two vendors selected for testing. Cause: The City's controls to ensure suspension and debarment checks on vendors receiving federal funds did not operate effectively. Effect or Potential Effect: Federal funds could be paid to entities that are suspended or debarred. Questioned Costs: None. Context: Two contracts for the years ended December 31, 2023, totaling approximately $320,000 and $220,000, respectively, were selected for testing suspension and debarment, and in both instances (2 of 2), the City did not check the vendor’s suspension and debarment status prior to purchase. The sample was not intended to be, and was not, a statistically valid sample. Identification of Prior Year Finding: N/A Recommendation: Policies and procedures should be modified to ensure that suspension and debarment checks are performed on vendors prior to making purchases with federal funds. Views of Responsible Official and Planned Corrective Action: Management is in agreement with the finding. The City will incorporate controls surrounding suspension and debarment to ensure the appropriate checks are performed prior to entering into covered transactions.
Assistance Listing, Federal Agency, and Program Name - 21.027, U.S. Department of the Treasury, COVID-19 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Federal Award Identification Number and Year - 38080710K, 2022 Pass-through Entity - Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) Finding Type - Material weakness and material noncompliance with laws and regulations Repeat Finding - No Criteria - Per 2 CFR 200.303, the recipient must establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 (COSO). Per 2 CFR 200.318(a), the non-Federal entity must have an use documented procedures, consistent with state, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. The nonfederal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §200.317 through §200.327. Per 2 CFR 200.318(h), the non-Federal entity must award contracts only to responsible contractors possessing the ability to perform successfully under the terms and conditions of a proposed procurement. Consideration will be given to such matters as contractor integrity, compliance with public policy, record of past performance, and financial and technical resources. Further, 2 CFR 200.214 restricts awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Per 2 CFR 200.318(i), the non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Condition - Controls were not sufficient to ensure that management has written policies and procedures surrounding procurement that align with Federal Procurement Standards outlined within the Uniform Guidance. Further, controls were not adequate to ensure that the history of procurement decisions was documented. Additionally, controls were not sufficient to ensure checks for suspension and debarment were performed and documented before entering into a covered transaction with third parties. Questioned Costs - $3,000,000 If Questioned Costs Are Not Determinable, Description of Why Known Questioned Costs Were Undetermined or Otherwise Could Not Be Reported - N/A Identification of How Questioned Costs Were Computed - Questioned costs represent procured contractor activity reported on the SEFA not in compliance with Federal procurement standards. Context - Through review of management's various policies and procedures in place related to purchasing, we noted that management does not have policies and procedures in place that align with the federal procurements standards under §200.317 through §200.327 to ensure compliance with these standards. Further, while testing a sample of 2 contracts out of 3 vendors with activity on the SEFA, we noted no documented evidence of the history of procurement, rationale for the method of procurement used, selection of the contract type, basis for contract selection, analysis of cost or price, or checks for suspension and debarment. Cause and Effect - A lack of written policies and procedures has resulted in material noncompliance with federal procurement standards, including standards to ensure checks for suspension and debarment are performed before entering into a covered transaction with third parties. Recommendation - We recommend management implement written policies and procedures, as required by the Uniform Guidance, to ensure compliance with the federal procurement standards under §200.317 through §200.327 of the Uniform Guidance. We also recommend management implement a system of internal controls to ensure procurement decisions are documented, including checks for suspension and debarment to ensure compliance with §200.214. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions - The Organization will update and formally adopt written procurement, suspension, and debarment policies and procedures to conform to Uniform Guidance requirements and implement procedures to ensure those policies are consistently followed and documented for all federally funded procurements.
Program - AL 21.027 – COVID-19 – Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – Suspension & Debarment Grant Number & Year - SLFRP0847, March 3, 2021, through December 31, 2024 Federal Grantor Agency -U.S. Department of the Treasury Criteria -Title 2 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) § 200.303 (January 1, 2023) states the following, in relevant part: The non-Federal entity must: (a) 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). 2 CFR § 200.214 (January 1, 2023) states the following: Non-Federal entities are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. The U.S. Department of the Treasury adopted the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards in 2 CFR § 1000.10 (January 1, 2023), which states the following: Except for the deviations set forth elsewhere in this Part, the Department of the Treasury adopts the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, set forth at 2 CFR part 200. 2 CFR § 180.300 (January 1, 2023) requires non-Federal entities to verify that an entity is not excluded or disqualified prior to entering into a covered transaction by “(a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that . . . [entity]; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that . . . [entity].” A good internal control plan requires the County to have proper procedures in place to verify that contractors paid with Federal funds are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities. Condition -Dawson County could not provide documentation to support that the County implemented effective internal controls to ensure that suspension and debarment requirements were followed and adequately documented. We noted the County used Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to pay five vendors over $25,000 each, totaling $638,407, during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023. The County failed to ensure that these vendors were not excluded or disqualified prior to entering into these covered transactions. We reviewed SAM.gov, and noted that none of these vendors were suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in Federal programs or activities as of the date testing was performed. Repeat Finding - No Questioned Costs - None Statistical Sample - No Context - The following table provides details of the covered transactions noted: Cause - Lack of procedures and knowledge regarding suspension and debarment requirements. Effect - Without adequate procedures to ensure contractors are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities, there is an increased risk for the misuse of Federal funds and noncompliance with Federal regulations, leading to possible Federal sanctions. Recommendation - We recommend the County implement procedures to ensure, prior to entering into a covered transaction, that a contractor is not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities, and those procedures are adequately documented. View of Officials - The County has put procedures in place; when a contractor is hired, sam.gov will be utilized to verify the entity has not been suspended or debarred.
Program - AL 21.027 – COVID-19 – Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – Suspension & Debarment Grant Number & Year - SLFRP3090, March 3, 2021, through December 31, 2024 Federal Grantor Agency - U.S. Department of the Treasury Criteria - Title 2 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) § 200.303 (January 1, 2023) states the following, in relevant part: The non-Federal entity must: (a) 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). The U.S. Department of the Treasury adopted the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards in 2 CFR § 1000.10 (January 1, 2023), which states the following: Except for the deviations set forth elsewhere in this Part, the Department of the Treasury adopts the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, set forth at 2 CFR part 200. 2 CFR § 200.214 (January 1, 2023) states the following: Non-Federal entities are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. 2 CFR § 180.300 (January 1, 2023) requires non-Federal entities to verify that an entity is not excluded or disqualified prior to entering into a covered transaction by: "(a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that . . . [entity]; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that . . . [entity]." A good internal control plan requires the County to have proper procedures in place to verify that contractors paid with Federal funds are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities. Condition - Knox County could not provide documentation to support that the County implemented effective internal controls to ensure that suspension and debarment requirements were followed and adequately documented. We noted the County used Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to pay three vendors over $25,000, totaling $633,021, during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023. The County failed to ensure that these vendors were not excluded or disqualified prior to entering into these covered transactions. We reviewed SAM.gov, and noted that none of these vendors were suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in Federal programs or activities as of the date testing was performed. Repeat Finding - No Questioned Costs - None Statistical Sample - No Context - The following table provides details of the covered transactions noted: Cause - Lack of procedures and knowledge regarding suspension and debarment requirements Effect - Without adequate procedures to ensure contractors are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities, there is an increased risk for the misuse of Federal funds and noncompliance with Federal regulations, leading to possible Federal sanctions. Recommendation - We recommend the County implement procedures to ensure, prior to entering into a covered transaction, that a contractor is not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities, and those procedures are adequately documented. View of Officials - The County has discussed checking the SAM (System for Award Management formerly Excluded Parties Listing System (EPLS), which is maintained by the General Services Administration to ensure vendors are not suspended or debarred before entering a transaction.
2023-002 - Procurment, Debarment & Suspension Certification Finding Criteria: 2 CFR Part 200.214 and 2 CFR Part 180 provides that entities who are suspended or debarred shall be excluded from financial and non-financial assistance and benefits under Federal Programs and activities. Accordingly, the District should follow their written policy/procedure for ensuring that vendors paid with federal funds are not suspected or debarred from doing business with the federal government. Condition: During our testing we found one instance where the Distrct had not checks SAMS.GOV, prior to making a purchase, to determine if the vendor was suspended or debarred from doing business with the District under a Federal Award. Cause and Effect: The District has a policy and process in place to check for suspension/debarment for all transactions except for purchases made with credit cards. However, the District checked afterwards, and this vendor was neither suspended or debarred. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend that the District implements a process to scrutinize purchases with credit cards by verifying if a vendor is either suspended or debarred prior to commencing work under any contracts funded by the Federal Government.
Program - AL 21.027 – COVID-19 – Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Suspension & Debarment Grant Number & Year - SLFRP0874, March 3, 2021, through December 31, 2024 Federal Grantor Agency - U.S. Department of the Treasury Criteria - Title 2 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) § 200.303 (January 1, 2023) states the following, in relevant part: The non-Federal entity must: (a) 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). 2 CFR § 200.214 (January 1, 2023) states the following: Non-Federal entities are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. The U.S. Department of the Treasury adopted the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards in 2 CFR § 1000.10 (January 1, 2023), which states the following: Except for the deviations set forth elsewhere in this Part, the Department of the Treasury adopts the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, set forth at 2 CFR part 200. 2 CFR § 180.300 (January 1, 2023) requires non-Federal entities to verify that an entity is not excluded or disqualified prior to entering into a covered transaction by, “(a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that . . . [entity]; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that . . . [entity].” A good internal control plan requires the County to have proper procedures in place toverify that contractors paid with Federal funds are not suspended, debarred, or otherwiseexcluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities. Condition - Dakota County could not provide documentation to support that the County implemented effective internal controls to ensure that suspension and debarment requirements were followed and adequately documented. We noted the County used Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to pay 14 vendors over $25,000 each, totaling $1,033,366, during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023. The County failed to ensure that these vendors were not excluded or disqualified prior to entering into these covered transactions. We reviewed SAM.gov, and noted that none of these vendors were suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in Federal programs or activities as of the date testing was performed. Repeat Finding - No Questioned Costs - None Statistical Sample - No Cause - Lack of procedures and knowledge regarding suspension and debarment requirements. Effect - Without adequate procedures to ensure contractors are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities, there is an increased risk for the misuse of Federal funds and noncompliance with Federal regulations, leading to possible Federal sanctions. Recommendation - We recommend the County implement procedures to ensure, prior to entering into a covered transaction, that a contractor is not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities, and those procedures are adequately documented. View of Officials - The County will implement procedures to ensure when a contractor is paid with federal funds, https://www.sam.gov will be utilized to verify the entity has not been suspended or debarred and such procedure will be adequately documented.
Program - AL 21.027 – COVID-19 – Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – Suspension & Debarment Grant Number & Year - SLFRP2377, March 3, 2021, through December 31, 2024 Federal Grantor Agency - U.S. Department of the Treasury Criteria - Title 2 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) § 200.303 (January 1, 2023) states the following, in relevant part: The non-Federal entity must: (a) 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). The U.S. Department of the Treasury adopted the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards in 2 CFR § 1000.10 (January 1, 2023), which states the following: Except for the deviations set forth elsewhere in this Part, the Department of the Treasury adopts the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, set forth at 2 CFR part 200. 2 CFR § 200.214 (January 1, 2023) states the following: Non-Federal entities are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. 2 CFR § 180.300 (January 1, 2023) requires non-Federal entities to verify that an entity is not excluded or disqualified prior to entering into a covered transaction by: “(a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that . . . [entity]; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that . . . [entity].” A good internal control plan requires the County to have proper procedures in place to verify that contractors paid with Federal funds are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities. Condition - Holt County could not provide documentation to support that the County implemented effective internal controls to ensure that suspension and debarment requirements were followed and adequately documented. We noted the County used Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to pay six vendors over $25,000, totaling $1,146,781, during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023. The County failed to ensure that these vendors were not excluded or disqualified prior to entering into these covered transactions. We reviewed SAM.gov, and noted that none of these vendors were suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in Federal programs or activities as of the date testing was performed. Repeat Finding - No Questioned Costs - None Statistical Sample - No Context - The following table provides details of the covered transactions noted: Cause - Lack of procedures and knowledge regarding suspension and debarment requirements Effect - Without adequate procedures to ensure contractors are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities, there is an increased risk for the misuse of Federal funds and noncompliance with Federal regulations, leading to possible Federal sanctions. Recommendation - We recommend the County implement procedures to ensure, prior to entering into a covered transaction, that a contractor is not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities, and those procedures are adequately documented. View of Officials - Holt County’s first choice will be to obtain a certificate or an agreement with each entity stating they are in good standing.
Program - AL 21.027 – COVID-19 – Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – Suspension & Debarment Grant Number & Year - SLFRP3105, March 3, 2021, through December 31, 2024 Federal Grantor Agency - U.S. Department of the Treasury Criteria - Title 2 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) § 200.303 (January 1, 2023) states the following, in relevant part: The non-Federal entity must: (a) 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).The U.S. Department of the Treasury adopted the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards in 2 CFR 1000.10 (January 1, 2023), which states the following: Except for the deviations set forth elsewhere in this Part, the Department of the Treasury adopts the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, set forth at 2 CFR part 200. 2 CFR § 200.214 (January 1, 2023) states the following: Non-Federal entities are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. 2 CFR § 180.300 (January 1, 2023) requires non-Federal entities to verify that an entity is not excluded or disqualified prior to entering into a covered transaction by: “(a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that . . . [entity]; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that . . . [entity].” A good internal control plan requires the County to have proper procedures in place to verify that contractors paid with Federal funds are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities. Condition - Antelope County could not provide documentation to support the County implemented effective internal controls to ensure that suspension and debarment requirements were followed and adequately documented. We noted the County used Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to pay one vendor over $25,000, totaling $1,204,000, during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023. The County failed to ensure that this vendor, A&R Construction, was not excluded or disqualified prior to entering into this covered transaction. We reviewed SAM.gov, and noted this vendor was not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in Federal programs or activities as of the date testing was performed. Repeat Finding - No Questioned Costs - None Statistical Sample - No Cause - Lack of procedures and knowledge regarding suspension and debarment requirements Effect - Without adequate procedures to ensure contractors are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activies, there is an increased risk for the misuse of Federal funds and noncompliance with Federal regulations, leading to possible Federal sanctions. Recommendation - We recommend the County implement procedures to ensure, prior to entering into a covered transaction, that a contractor is not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities, and those procedures are adequately documented. View of Officials - It will be the practice of Antelope County to check vendor status with the SAMS/DUNS before any payments are made utilizing Federal funds. To further ensure the funds are safely being utilized and spent, regular checks on the vendor status will be completed.
2023-002 Noncompliance with Procurement, Suspension, & Debarment Standard – 21.027 (Significant Deficiency – Noncompliance) Criteria – 2 CFR 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, §200.214 prohibits non-federal entities from contracting with parties that are suspended or debarred under covered transactions. Condition and Context – Audit procedures revealed that there was not a process in place to formally document the review of the contracted entity for suspension and debarment prior to entering into the agreement. Cause – The Organization does not have a formal process to document suspension and debarment. Management was unaware of the requirement, though it was clear that management thoughtfully considered the contractor’s reputation and determined that the contractor was suited for the agreement. Effect –The Organization did not perform its review of suspension and debarment for this agreement, though the contractor was found to not be on prohibited lists at annual review. Questioned Costs – None Recommendations – Management should strengthen their processes, controls, and review over suspension, and debarment processes and ensure compliance with Uniform Administrative Requirements. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions – Request constructions manager to check suspension and debarment of all subcontractors prior to hire if project has not already been started.
2023-002 Noncompliance with Procurement, Suspension, & Debarment Standard – 21.027 (Significant Deficiency – Noncompliance) Criteria – 2 CFR 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, §200.214 prohibits non-federal entities from contracting with parties that are suspended or debarred under covered transactions. Condition and Context – Audit procedures revealed that there was not a process in place to formally document the review of the contracted entity for suspension and debarment prior to entering into the agreement. Cause – The Organization does not have a formal process to document suspension and debarment. Management was unaware of the requirement, though it was clear that management thoughtfully considered the contractor’s reputation and determined that the contractor was suited for the agreement. Effect –The Organization did not perform its review of suspension and debarment for this agreement, though the contractor was found to not be on prohibited lists at annual review. Questioned Costs – None Recommendations – Management should strengthen their processes, controls, and review over suspension, and debarment processes and ensure compliance with Uniform Administrative Requirements. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions – Request constructions manager to check suspension and debarment of all subcontractors prior to hire if project has not already been started.
2023-002 Noncompliance with Procurement, Suspension, & Debarment Standard – 21.027 (Significant Deficiency – Noncompliance) Criteria – 2 CFR 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, §200.214 prohibits non-federal entities from contracting with parties that are suspended or debarred under covered transactions. Condition and Context – Audit procedures revealed that there was not a process in place to formally document the review of the contracted entity for suspension and debarment prior to entering into the agreement. Cause – The Organization does not have a formal process to document suspension and debarment. Management was unaware of the requirement, though it was clear that management thoughtfully considered the contractor’s reputation and determined that the contractor was suited for the agreement. Effect –The Organization did not perform its review of suspension and debarment for this agreement, though the contractor was found to not be on prohibited lists at annual review. Questioned Costs – None Recommendations – Management should strengthen their processes, controls, and review over suspension, and debarment processes and ensure compliance with Uniform Administrative Requirements. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions – Request constructions manager to check suspension and debarment of all subcontractors prior to hire if project has not already been started.
Program - AL #21.027 – COVID-19 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – Suspension and Debarment Grant Number & Year - SLFRP2949, March 3, 2021, through December 31, 2024 Federal Grantor Agency - U.S. Department of the Treasury Criteria - Title 2 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) § 200.303 (January 1, 2023) states the following, in relevant part: The non-Federal entity must: (a) 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). 2 CFR § 200.214 (January 1, 2023) states the following: Non-Federal entities are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. The U.S. Department of the Treasury adopted the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards in 2 CFR § 1000.10 (January 1, 2023), which states the following: Except for the deviations set forth elsewhere in this Part, the Department of the Treasury adopts the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, set forth at 2 CFR part 200. 2 CFR § 180.300 (January 1, 2023) requires non-Federal entities to verify that an entity is not excluded or disqualified prior to entering into a covered transaction by “(a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that . . . [entity]; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that . . . [entity].” A good internal control plan requires the County to have proper procedures in place to verify that all contractors paid with Federal funds are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities. Condition - Lincoln County had controls in place to ensure that suspension and debarment requirements were followed and adequately documented; however, the County did not follow these controls for every vendor. We noted the County used Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to pay seven vendors over $25,000 each, totaling $5,540,320, during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023. The County failed to ensure that these vendors, with whom the County regularly does business, were not excluded or disqualified prior to entering into these covered transactions. We reviewed SAM.gov, and noted that none of these vendors were suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in Federal programs or activities as of the date testing was performed. Repeat Finding - No Questioned Costs - None Statistical Sample - No Context - The following table provides details of the covered transactions noted: Cause - Lack of procedures and knowledge regarding suspension and debarment requirements. Effect - Without adequate procedures to ensure all contractors are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities, there is an increased risk for the misuse of Federal funds and noncompliance with Federal regulations, leading to possible Federal sanctions. Recommendation - We recommend the County implement procedures to ensure, prior to entering into a covered transaction, that all contractors are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities, and those procedures are adequately documented. View of Officials - Lincoln County (submitting Department and County Clerk’s Office) will verify through Sam.Gov that all claims submitted for payment using federal funds are not suspended, debarred, or excluded from receiving federal dollars prior to payment of the claim.
Type of Finding Significant deficiency in internal control over financial reporting. Criteria or Specific Requirements 2 CFR Section 200.214 requires non-federal entities to follow suspension and debarment regulations outlined in 2 CFR part 180. When a nonfederal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the nonfederal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. Condition The District could not provide proof of verification of the suspension and debarment status of vendors before entering into services. Questioned Costs None. Context The District did not review 1 of 2 vendors tested in our sample to ensure they were not suspended or debarred when initiating covered transactions in the current year. Cause The District did not follow their Federal Funds Suspension and Debarment Policy related to appropriate methods of verifying vendors are not suspended or debarred. Effect The District could contract with a vendor that has been suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Repeat Finding No Recommendation We recommend the District include contract language which ensures vendor are not suspended or debarred as well as utilize sam.gov to review vendors at the beginning of the year or before a transaction is incurred in accordance with Uniform Guidance requirements. View of Reasonable Officials There is no disagreement with this finding and management has developed a plan to correct the finding.
Type of Finding Significant deficiency in internal control over financial reporting. Criteria or Specific Requirements 2 CFR Section 200.214 requires non-federal entities to follow suspension and debarment regulations outlined in 2 CFR part 180. When a nonfederal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the nonfederal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. Condition The District could not provide proof of verification of the suspension and debarment status of vendors before entering into services. Questioned Costs None. Context The District did not review 1 of 2 vendors tested in our sample to ensure they were not suspended or debarred when initiating covered transactions in the current year. Cause The District did not follow their Federal Funds Suspension and Debarment Policy related to appropriate methods of verifying vendors are not suspended or debarred. Effect The District could contract with a vendor that has been suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Repeat Finding No Recommendation We recommend the District include contract language which ensures vendor are not suspended or debarred as well as utilize sam.gov to review vendors at the beginning of the year or before a transaction is incurred in accordance with Uniform Guidance requirements. View of Reasonable Officials There is no disagreement with this finding and management has developed a plan to correct the finding.
Type of Finding Significant deficiency in internal control over financial reporting. Criteria or Specific Requirements 2 CFR Section 200.214 requires non-federal entities to follow suspension and debarment regulations outlined in 2 CFR part 180. When a nonfederal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the nonfederal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. Condition The District could not provide proof of verification of the suspension and debarment status of vendors before entering into services. Questioned Costs None. Context The District did not review 1 of 2 vendors tested in our sample to ensure they were not suspended or debarred when initiating covered transactions in the current year. Cause The District did not follow their Federal Funds Suspension and Debarment Policy related to appropriate methods of verifying vendors are not suspended or debarred. Effect The District could contract with a vendor that has been suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Repeat Finding No Recommendation We recommend the District include contract language which ensures vendor are not suspended or debarred as well as utilize sam.gov to review vendors at the beginning of the year or before a transaction is incurred in accordance with Uniform Guidance requirements. View of Reasonable Officials There is no disagreement with this finding and management has developed a plan to correct the finding.
Type of Finding Significant deficiency in internal control over financial reporting. Criteria or Specific Requirements 2 CFR Section 200.214 requires non-federal entities to follow suspension and debarment regulations outlined in 2 CFR part 180. When a nonfederal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the nonfederal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. Condition The District could not provide proof of verification of the suspension and debarment status of vendors before entering into services. Questioned Costs None. Context The District did not review 1 of 2 vendors tested in our sample to ensure they were not suspended or debarred when initiating covered transactions in the current year. Cause The District did not follow their Federal Funds Suspension and Debarment Policy related to appropriate methods of verifying vendors are not suspended or debarred. Effect The District could contract with a vendor that has been suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Repeat Finding No Recommendation We recommend the District include contract language which ensures vendor are not suspended or debarred as well as utilize sam.gov to review vendors at the beginning of the year or before a transaction is incurred in accordance with Uniform Guidance requirements. View of Reasonable Officials There is no disagreement with this finding and management has developed a plan to correct the finding.
Type of Finding Significant deficiency in internal control over financial reporting. Criteria or Specific Requirements 2 CFR Section 200.214 requires non-federal entities to follow suspension and debarment regulations outlined in 2 CFR part 180. When a nonfederal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the nonfederal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. Condition The District could not provide proof of verification of the suspension and debarment status of vendors before entering into services. Questioned Costs None. Context The District did not review 1 of 2 vendors tested in our sample to ensure they were not suspended or debarred when initiating covered transactions in the current year. Cause The District did not follow their Federal Funds Suspension and Debarment Policy related to appropriate methods of verifying vendors are not suspended or debarred. Effect The District could contract with a vendor that has been suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Repeat Finding No Recommendation We recommend the District include contract language which ensures vendor are not suspended or debarred as well as utilize sam.gov to review vendors at the beginning of the year or before a transaction is incurred in accordance with Uniform Guidance requirements. View of Reasonable Officials There is no disagreement with this finding and management has developed a plan to correct the finding.
Type of Finding Significant deficiency in internal control over financial reporting. Criteria or Specific Requirements 2 CFR Section 200.214 requires non-federal entities to follow suspension and debarment regulations outlined in 2 CFR part 180. When a nonfederal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the nonfederal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. Condition The District could not provide proof of verification of the suspension and debarment status of vendors before entering into services. Questioned Costs None. Context The District did not review 1 of 2 vendors tested in our sample to ensure they were not suspended or debarred when initiating covered transactions in the current year. Cause The District did not follow their Federal Funds Suspension and Debarment Policy related to appropriate methods of verifying vendors are not suspended or debarred. Effect The District could contract with a vendor that has been suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Repeat Finding No Recommendation We recommend the District include contract language which ensures vendor are not suspended or debarred as well as utilize sam.gov to review vendors at the beginning of the year or before a transaction is incurred in accordance with Uniform Guidance requirements. View of Reasonable Officials There is no disagreement with this finding and management has developed a plan to correct the finding.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program Name: Special Education Cluster Assistance Listing Number: 84.027, 84.173 Federal Award Identification Number: N/A Pass-Through Agency: Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care Pass-Through Number(s): 240-585359-2022-0131, 240-744100-2023-0131, 252-610784-2022-0131, 262-585362-2022-0131, 262-744101-2023-0131, 264-610783-2022-0131 Award Period: July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2023 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control Over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or specific requirement: The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 2 Part 200.214 states that nonfederal entities are subject to the nonprocurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. These regulations restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Condition and Context: Procedures were not in place to ensure three (3) of five (5) vendors selected for testing in our statistically valid sample and paid from the grant award were not suspended or debarred. Upon further testing, it was determined none of the vendors were suspended or debarred. Questioned costs: None Cause: Procedures were not in place to ensure vendors are not suspended or debarred. Effect: Federal funds could be expended to suspended or debarred vendors and subject to disallowance. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: We recommend the Town enhance procedures and controls to ensure verifications of suspension and debarment statuses are obtained from vendors prior to executing transactions with these vendors. Views of responsible officials: Management has updated procedures to ensure vendors are not suspended or debarred and has shared and reviewed this information with staff to ensure that the procedure is carefully followed.
Federal Agency: US Department of Agriculture Federal Program Name: Child Nutrition Cluster Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Unknown Pass-Through Agency: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Pass-Through Number(s): 2023-714368-DPI-SB-SEVERE-546, 2023-715368-DPI-NSL-547, 2023-714368-SPI-SK_NSL-561, Unknown, 2023-714368-DPI-SFSP-586 Award Period: July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance • Other Matter Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR Section 320.318(i) requires the District to maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. 2 CFR Section 200.214 requires non-federal entities to follow suspension and debarment regulations outlined in 2 CFR part 180. When a nonfederal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the nonfederal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. Condition: The District policy requires that they receive multiple price quotes for transactions over $10,000. The District policy also requires that for contracts, they include a suspension and debarment verification within said contract as well as look up the vendor’s status on sam.gov. The district did not retain documentation for multiple price quotes for 4 out of 5 small purchase transactions in our sample. The District also did not retain documentation related to suspension and debarment status for 2 out of 4 vendors in our sample. Questioned Costs: None Context: While the department heads are responsible for ensuring they maintain documentation over price quotes to comply with the districts small purchase policy, the District did not retain documentation over price quotes obtained nor documentation of how the vendor was ultimately selected for 4 out of 5 small purchase transactions in our sample. The District did not retain documentation over verification that the vendors status of suspension and debarment from sam.gov for 2 out of 4 vendors in our sample. Cause: The District employees did not retain the supporting documentation for information obtained from vendors. Also, due to turnover at the district with the superintendent, they are unable to locate the documentation for verification of suspension and debarment status. Effect: Procurement transactions may not be in compliance with the Uniform Guidance. District could contract with a vendor that has been suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: We recommend that the District review its Uniform Guidance policies with all staff to ensure procurement requirements are understood and implement controls to help ensure compliance. We also recommend the District review and update policies and procedures over review of certain transactions to ensure that all federal grants with covered transactions have vendors reviewed for suspension and debarment status prior to entering into the transaction. View of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Federal Agency: US Department of Agriculture Federal Program Name: Child Nutrition Cluster Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Unknown Pass-Through Agency: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Pass-Through Number(s): 2023-714368-DPI-SB-SEVERE-546, 2023-715368-DPI-NSL-547, 2023-714368-SPI-SK_NSL-561, Unknown, 2023-714368-DPI-SFSP-586 Award Period: July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance • Other Matter Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR Section 320.318(i) requires the District to maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. 2 CFR Section 200.214 requires non-federal entities to follow suspension and debarment regulations outlined in 2 CFR part 180. When a nonfederal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the nonfederal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. Condition: The District policy requires that they receive multiple price quotes for transactions over $10,000. The District policy also requires that for contracts, they include a suspension and debarment verification within said contract as well as look up the vendor’s status on sam.gov. The district did not retain documentation for multiple price quotes for 4 out of 5 small purchase transactions in our sample. The District also did not retain documentation related to suspension and debarment status for 2 out of 4 vendors in our sample. Questioned Costs: None Context: While the department heads are responsible for ensuring they maintain documentation over price quotes to comply with the districts small purchase policy, the District did not retain documentation over price quotes obtained nor documentation of how the vendor was ultimately selected for 4 out of 5 small purchase transactions in our sample. The District did not retain documentation over verification that the vendors status of suspension and debarment from sam.gov for 2 out of 4 vendors in our sample. Cause: The District employees did not retain the supporting documentation for information obtained from vendors. Also, due to turnover at the district with the superintendent, they are unable to locate the documentation for verification of suspension and debarment status. Effect: Procurement transactions may not be in compliance with the Uniform Guidance. District could contract with a vendor that has been suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: We recommend that the District review its Uniform Guidance policies with all staff to ensure procurement requirements are understood and implement controls to help ensure compliance. We also recommend the District review and update policies and procedures over review of certain transactions to ensure that all federal grants with covered transactions have vendors reviewed for suspension and debarment status prior to entering into the transaction. View of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Federal Agency: US Department of Agriculture Federal Program Name: Child Nutrition Cluster Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Unknown Pass-Through Agency: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Pass-Through Number(s): 2023-714368-DPI-SB-SEVERE-546, 2023-715368-DPI-NSL-547, 2023-714368-SPI-SK_NSL-561, Unknown, 2023-714368-DPI-SFSP-586 Award Period: July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance • Other Matter Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR Section 320.318(i) requires the District to maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. 2 CFR Section 200.214 requires non-federal entities to follow suspension and debarment regulations outlined in 2 CFR part 180. When a nonfederal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the nonfederal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. Condition: The District policy requires that they receive multiple price quotes for transactions over $10,000. The District policy also requires that for contracts, they include a suspension and debarment verification within said contract as well as look up the vendor’s status on sam.gov. The district did not retain documentation for multiple price quotes for 4 out of 5 small purchase transactions in our sample. The District also did not retain documentation related to suspension and debarment status for 2 out of 4 vendors in our sample. Questioned Costs: None Context: While the department heads are responsible for ensuring they maintain documentation over price quotes to comply with the districts small purchase policy, the District did not retain documentation over price quotes obtained nor documentation of how the vendor was ultimately selected for 4 out of 5 small purchase transactions in our sample. The District did not retain documentation over verification that the vendors status of suspension and debarment from sam.gov for 2 out of 4 vendors in our sample. Cause: The District employees did not retain the supporting documentation for information obtained from vendors. Also, due to turnover at the district with the superintendent, they are unable to locate the documentation for verification of suspension and debarment status. Effect: Procurement transactions may not be in compliance with the Uniform Guidance. District could contract with a vendor that has been suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: We recommend that the District review its Uniform Guidance policies with all staff to ensure procurement requirements are understood and implement controls to help ensure compliance. We also recommend the District review and update policies and procedures over review of certain transactions to ensure that all federal grants with covered transactions have vendors reviewed for suspension and debarment status prior to entering into the transaction. View of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Federal Agency: US Department of Agriculture Federal Program Name: Child Nutrition Cluster Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Unknown Pass-Through Agency: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Pass-Through Number(s): 2023-714368-DPI-SB-SEVERE-546, 2023-715368-DPI-NSL-547, 2023-714368-SPI-SK_NSL-561, Unknown, 2023-714368-DPI-SFSP-586 Award Period: July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance • Other Matter Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR Section 320.318(i) requires the District to maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. 2 CFR Section 200.214 requires non-federal entities to follow suspension and debarment regulations outlined in 2 CFR part 180. When a nonfederal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the nonfederal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. Condition: The District policy requires that they receive multiple price quotes for transactions over $10,000. The District policy also requires that for contracts, they include a suspension and debarment verification within said contract as well as look up the vendor’s status on sam.gov. The district did not retain documentation for multiple price quotes for 4 out of 5 small purchase transactions in our sample. The District also did not retain documentation related to suspension and debarment status for 2 out of 4 vendors in our sample. Questioned Costs: None Context: While the department heads are responsible for ensuring they maintain documentation over price quotes to comply with the districts small purchase policy, the District did not retain documentation over price quotes obtained nor documentation of how the vendor was ultimately selected for 4 out of 5 small purchase transactions in our sample. The District did not retain documentation over verification that the vendors status of suspension and debarment from sam.gov for 2 out of 4 vendors in our sample. Cause: The District employees did not retain the supporting documentation for information obtained from vendors. Also, due to turnover at the district with the superintendent, they are unable to locate the documentation for verification of suspension and debarment status. Effect: Procurement transactions may not be in compliance with the Uniform Guidance. District could contract with a vendor that has been suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: We recommend that the District review its Uniform Guidance policies with all staff to ensure procurement requirements are understood and implement controls to help ensure compliance. We also recommend the District review and update policies and procedures over review of certain transactions to ensure that all federal grants with covered transactions have vendors reviewed for suspension and debarment status prior to entering into the transaction. View of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Federal Agency: US Department of Agriculture Federal Program Name: Child Nutrition Cluster Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Unknown Pass-Through Agency: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Pass-Through Number(s): 2023-714368-DPI-SB-SEVERE-546, 2023-715368-DPI-NSL-547, 2023-714368-SPI-SK_NSL-561, Unknown, 2023-714368-DPI-SFSP-586 Award Period: July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance • Other Matter Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR Section 320.318(i) requires the District to maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. 2 CFR Section 200.214 requires non-federal entities to follow suspension and debarment regulations outlined in 2 CFR part 180. When a nonfederal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the nonfederal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. Condition: The District policy requires that they receive multiple price quotes for transactions over $10,000. The District policy also requires that for contracts, they include a suspension and debarment verification within said contract as well as look up the vendor’s status on sam.gov. The district did not retain documentation for multiple price quotes for 4 out of 5 small purchase transactions in our sample. The District also did not retain documentation related to suspension and debarment status for 2 out of 4 vendors in our sample. Questioned Costs: None Context: While the department heads are responsible for ensuring they maintain documentation over price quotes to comply with the districts small purchase policy, the District did not retain documentation over price quotes obtained nor documentation of how the vendor was ultimately selected for 4 out of 5 small purchase transactions in our sample. The District did not retain documentation over verification that the vendors status of suspension and debarment from sam.gov for 2 out of 4 vendors in our sample. Cause: The District employees did not retain the supporting documentation for information obtained from vendors. Also, due to turnover at the district with the superintendent, they are unable to locate the documentation for verification of suspension and debarment status. Effect: Procurement transactions may not be in compliance with the Uniform Guidance. District could contract with a vendor that has been suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: We recommend that the District review its Uniform Guidance policies with all staff to ensure procurement requirements are understood and implement controls to help ensure compliance. We also recommend the District review and update policies and procedures over review of certain transactions to ensure that all federal grants with covered transactions have vendors reviewed for suspension and debarment status prior to entering into the transaction. View of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Criteria: 2 CFR Section 320.318(i) requires the District to maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. CFR Section 200.214 requires nonfederal entities to follow suspension and debarment regulations outlined in 2 CFR part 180. When a nonfederal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the nonfederal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. Condition/Context: The District is part of a consortium composed of multiple school districts that designated one member district to handle procurement, suspension and debarment for all consortium members' food service programs. District policy requires District approval of the contracts after consortium finishes the proposal process and selects the prime vendors for the year. Cause: The District was not aware until mid-year that they needed to document controls ensuring District policy was followed and that it needed to maintain documentation regarding compliance when the consortium handled the process. Effect: Procurement contracts may not be in compliance with the Uniform Guidance. District could contract with a vendor that has been suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Recommendation: We recommend that the District review its Uniform Guidance policies with all staff to ensure procurement requirements are understood and implement controls to ensure compliance. We also recommend the District review and update policies and procedures over review of certain transactions to ensure that all federal grants with covered transactions have vendors reviewed for suspension and debarment status.
Criteria: 2 CFR Section 320.318(i) requires the District to maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. CFR Section 200.214 requires nonfederal entities to follow suspension and debarment regulations outlined in 2 CFR part 180. When a nonfederal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the nonfederal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. Condition/Context: The District is part of a consortium composed of multiple school districts that designated one member district to handle procurement, suspension and debarment for all consortium members' food service programs. District policy requires District approval of the contracts after consortium finishes the proposal process and selects the prime vendors for the year. Cause: The District was not aware until mid-year that they needed to document controls ensuring District policy was followed and that it needed to maintain documentation regarding compliance when the consortium handled the process. Effect: Procurement contracts may not be in compliance with the Uniform Guidance. District could contract with a vendor that has been suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Recommendation: We recommend that the District review its Uniform Guidance policies with all staff to ensure procurement requirements are understood and implement controls to ensure compliance. We also recommend the District review and update policies and procedures over review of certain transactions to ensure that all federal grants with covered transactions have vendors reviewed for suspension and debarment status.
Criteria: 2 CFR Section 320.318(i) requires the District to maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. CFR Section 200.214 requires nonfederal entities to follow suspension and debarment regulations outlined in 2 CFR part 180. When a nonfederal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the nonfederal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. Condition/Context: The District is part of a consortium composed of multiple school districts that designated one member district to handle procurement, suspension and debarment for all consortium members' food service programs. District policy requires District approval of the contracts after consortium finishes the proposal process and selects the prime vendors for the year. Cause: The District was not aware until mid-year that they needed to document controls ensuring District policy was followed and that it needed to maintain documentation regarding compliance when the consortium handled the process. Effect: Procurement contracts may not be in compliance with the Uniform Guidance. District could contract with a vendor that has been suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Recommendation: We recommend that the District review its Uniform Guidance policies with all staff to ensure procurement requirements are understood and implement controls to ensure compliance. We also recommend the District review and update policies and procedures over review of certain transactions to ensure that all federal grants with covered transactions have vendors reviewed for suspension and debarment status.
U.S. Department of Education Passed-through the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Special Education Cluster (IDEA) – ALN 84.027 & 84.173 COVID-19 – Special Education Cluster (IDEA) – ALN 84.027X & 84.173X Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Over Compliance Criteria: Per 2 CFR section 200.214, non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred. Condition: Suspension and debarment compliance was not verified for two covered transactions. Cause: Lack of appropriate oversight resulted in required suspension and debarment checks not being performed. Effect: Grant transactions are not supported adequately, and the School is at risk of awarding contracts to vendors not eligible to participate in federal awards programs. It was determined that none of the three vendors were suspended or debarred from federal awards. Questioned Costs: None Repeat Finding from Prior Year: No. Recommendation: The School should implement procedures to document that all contractors under covered transactions that are performing services for the grant are not suspended or debarred.
U.S. Department of Education Passed-through the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Special Education Cluster (IDEA) – ALN 84.027 & 84.173 COVID-19 – Special Education Cluster (IDEA) – ALN 84.027X & 84.173X Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Over Compliance Criteria: Per 2 CFR section 200.214, non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred. Condition: Suspension and debarment compliance was not verified for two covered transactions. Cause: Lack of appropriate oversight resulted in required suspension and debarment checks not being performed. Effect: Grant transactions are not supported adequately, and the School is at risk of awarding contracts to vendors not eligible to participate in federal awards programs. It was determined that none of the three vendors were suspended or debarred from federal awards. Questioned Costs: None Repeat Finding from Prior Year: No. Recommendation: The School should implement procedures to document that all contractors under covered transactions that are performing services for the grant are not suspended or debarred.
U.S. Department of Education Passed-through the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Special Education Cluster (IDEA) – ALN 84.027 & 84.173 COVID-19 – Special Education Cluster (IDEA) – ALN 84.027X & 84.173X Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Over Compliance Criteria: Per 2 CFR section 200.214, non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred. Condition: Suspension and debarment compliance was not verified for two covered transactions. Cause: Lack of appropriate oversight resulted in required suspension and debarment checks not being performed. Effect: Grant transactions are not supported adequately, and the School is at risk of awarding contracts to vendors not eligible to participate in federal awards programs. It was determined that none of the three vendors were suspended or debarred from federal awards. Questioned Costs: None Repeat Finding from Prior Year: No. Recommendation: The School should implement procedures to document that all contractors under covered transactions that are performing services for the grant are not suspended or debarred.