Finding 2022-002: Procurement Policy (Material Weakness) Information on the Federal Program: U.S. Department of State ALN 19.040 Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR Section 200.318 requires that 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. Condition: FCE does not have a formal written procurement policy that conforms to the requirements of the Uniform Guidance. As a result, no procurement files were maintained to document FCE's procurement actions. Questioned Costs: None Cause: FCE has no accounting policies and procedures in place to provide guidance to management on the documentary evidence requirements in accordance with proper internal controls and the Uniform Guidance. Effect or Potential Effect: Without either a procurement policy or procurement documentation, there is a risk that FCE did not perform a proper evaluation of each potential vendor whose costs were charged to federal programs. Recommendation: FCE should develop accounting policies and procedures to provide guidance to management regarding the proper internal controls over both financial reporting and compliance with federal awards. Included in those policies and procedures should be a procurement policy that conforms to the requirements of the Uniform Guidance. Furthermore, FCE should maintain documentation in its files to provide evidence to support that it followed the procurement policy.
2 CFR 200.317 - 200.327 sets procurement standards for non-federal entities other than states. These non-federal entities must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable State and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable Federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Small purchase procedures are used for purchases that exceed the micro-purchase amount but do not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. According to the Authority's Procurement Policy, for small purhcases from $3,501 to $50,000, no less than three offerors shall be solicited to submit price quotations, which may be obtained orally by telephone, or in writing, as allowed by State and local laws. Further, contracts shall not be awarded to debarred, suspended, or ineliglbe contracts. Due to deficiencies in the Authority's internal controls over compliance requireements, eight percent of the procurements tested did not follwo the Authority's policy in regards to procurement as they did not obtain and maintain price quotations for small purchases. The Authority should review the uniform guidance regulations over procurement and consider increasing their thresholds based on uniform guidiance guidelines. Further, the Authority should follow their policy and procedures for procurement.
FINDING 2022-001 Procurement, Suspension and Debarment (Repeat Finding 2021-001) Federal Agency: Department of the Treasury Federal Program: 21.027 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (CSLFRF) Criteria: The Department of the Treasury?s Interim Final Rule (Effective May 17, 2021 through March 31, 2022) and the Final Rule (Effective April 1, 2022) encouraged the use of internal Procurement Policies and Procedures when procuring products and/or services. The Department of the Treasury?s Compliance and Reporting Guidance report (Effective June 24, 2021 through April 30, 2025) required recipients (i.e., City of Evanston) to ensure any procurement using CSLFRF funds to be consistent with the procurement standards set forth in the Uniform Guidance at 2 CFR 200.317 through 2 CFR 200.327 as applicable. Procurement Standards of Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Costs Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) state that all non-federal entities will follow Section 200.318 through Section 200.327. A. Section 200.320 identifies four methods of procurement to be followed, among the methods of procurement the below are three identified thresholds: (a) Informal ? micro purchases (any amount up to $10,000) (b) Informal ? small purchases ($10,000.01 to $249,999.99) (c) Formal ? sealed bids ($250,000 and above) (d) Noncompetitive procurement B. The City of Evanston Purchasing Manual requires the collection of three written quotes for any purchase between $2,500 and $25,000 purchased with federal grant funds, a formal bid process (Bid, RFP, RFQ) for any purchase $25,000 or above purchased with federal grant funds, and a justification memo for a sole source purchase for any amount above $2,500 purchased with federal grant funds. C. The City of Evanston Purchasing Manual requires that for purchases above $2,500 but less than $10,000, approval signature must be obtained from the Department Director. All purchases above $10,000 require approval signature from the City Manager. Purchases above $25,000 must also be approved by the City Council. D. Per Title 2 CFR section 180.300, participant entering into a covered transaction must verify that the person with whom it intends to do business is not excluded or disqualified by: (a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. E. Title 2 CFR section 200.303 states the following regarding internal control: ?The auditee shall maintain internal control over Federal programs that provides reasonable assurance that the auditee is managing Federal awards in compliance with law, regulations, and the provisions of contracts or grant agreements that could have a material effect on each of its Federal programs.? Condition/Context: 1. We tested nine purchase orders totaling $2,408,526. Our procedures revealed the following: a. Two (2) purchase orders in the amount of $27,739 and $150,525 respectively, were purchases greater than $25,000 each, and for which the City of Evanston did not complete a formal procurement process (competitively bid) following its own Purchasing Manual and/or obtain the required three quotations following Section 200.320 of Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). b. For seven (7) purchase orders totaling $2,391,116, documentation demonstrating that suspension and debarment searches were performed could not be provided by the City of Evanston. c. For one (1) purchase order totaling $700,405, procurement documentation was not provided nor retained by the City of Evanston from third party procurement service provider. Cause: 1. The City of Evanston?s procurement policies do not include processes pertaining to monitoring and review procedures of procurement processes conducted by external procurement service providers to ensure compliance with all applicable procurement policies. 2. The City of Evanston?s procurement policies do not include processes pertaining to entity-wide suspension and debarment checks. 3. Where policies are in place for internal procurement they are not being followed. Effect: City of Evanston is not in compliance with Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200 and the requirements outlined in the City of Evanston Purchasing Manual as it relates to purchases above $25,000. Additionally, the effect of noncompliance can result in questioned costs. Recommendation: We recommend that City of Evanston: a. Implement structures to monitor external procurement service providers to ensure their procurement methods comply with applicable federal compliance requirements. b. Further expand Purchasing Manual to include policies and procedures for suspension and debarment searches and retaining support for suspension and debarment check. c. Communicate and re-enforce its procurement policies and procedures to ensure compliance with applicable requirements. d. Centralize the procurement process to ensure all departments are following applicable procedures in a uniform manner. Views of Responsible Officials: The City of Evanston implemented a revised Purchasing Manual as of March 2023. We agree with the auditor?s recommendations and will further review and revise the Purchasing Manual and communicate and reinforce policies and procedures to all departments to ensure compliance with applicable requirements.
FINDING 2022-001 Procurement, Suspension and Debarment (Repeat Finding 2021-001) Federal Agency: Department of the Treasury Federal Program: 21.027 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (CSLFRF) Criteria: The Department of the Treasury?s Interim Final Rule (Effective May 17, 2021 through March 31, 2022) and the Final Rule (Effective April 1, 2022) encouraged the use of internal Procurement Policies and Procedures when procuring products and/or services. The Department of the Treasury?s Compliance and Reporting Guidance report (Effective June 24, 2021 through April 30, 2025) required recipients (i.e., City of Evanston) to ensure any procurement using CSLFRF funds to be consistent with the procurement standards set forth in the Uniform Guidance at 2 CFR 200.317 through 2 CFR 200.327 as applicable. Procurement Standards of Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Costs Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) state that all non-federal entities will follow Section 200.318 through Section 200.327. A. Section 200.320 identifies four methods of procurement to be followed, among the methods of procurement the below are three identified thresholds: (a) Informal ? micro purchases (any amount up to $10,000) (b) Informal ? small purchases ($10,000.01 to $249,999.99) (c) Formal ? sealed bids ($250,000 and above) (d) Noncompetitive procurement B. The City of Evanston Purchasing Manual requires the collection of three written quotes for any purchase between $2,500 and $25,000 purchased with federal grant funds, a formal bid process (Bid, RFP, RFQ) for any purchase $25,000 or above purchased with federal grant funds, and a justification memo for a sole source purchase for any amount above $2,500 purchased with federal grant funds. C. The City of Evanston Purchasing Manual requires that for purchases above $2,500 but less than $10,000, approval signature must be obtained from the Department Director. All purchases above $10,000 require approval signature from the City Manager. Purchases above $25,000 must also be approved by the City Council. D. Per Title 2 CFR section 180.300, participant entering into a covered transaction must verify that the person with whom it intends to do business is not excluded or disqualified by: (a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. E. Title 2 CFR section 200.303 states the following regarding internal control: ?The auditee shall maintain internal control over Federal programs that provides reasonable assurance that the auditee is managing Federal awards in compliance with law, regulations, and the provisions of contracts or grant agreements that could have a material effect on each of its Federal programs.? Condition/Context: 1. We tested nine purchase orders totaling $2,408,526. Our procedures revealed the following: a. Two (2) purchase orders in the amount of $27,739 and $150,525 respectively, were purchases greater than $25,000 each, and for which the City of Evanston did not complete a formal procurement process (competitively bid) following its own Purchasing Manual and/or obtain the required three quotations following Section 200.320 of Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). b. For seven (7) purchase orders totaling $2,391,116, documentation demonstrating that suspension and debarment searches were performed could not be provided by the City of Evanston. c. For one (1) purchase order totaling $700,405, procurement documentation was not provided nor retained by the City of Evanston from third party procurement service provider. Cause: 1. The City of Evanston?s procurement policies do not include processes pertaining to monitoring and review procedures of procurement processes conducted by external procurement service providers to ensure compliance with all applicable procurement policies. 2. The City of Evanston?s procurement policies do not include processes pertaining to entity-wide suspension and debarment checks. 3. Where policies are in place for internal procurement they are not being followed. Effect: City of Evanston is not in compliance with Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200 and the requirements outlined in the City of Evanston Purchasing Manual as it relates to purchases above $25,000. Additionally, the effect of noncompliance can result in questioned costs. Recommendation: We recommend that City of Evanston: a. Implement structures to monitor external procurement service providers to ensure their procurement methods comply with applicable federal compliance requirements. b. Further expand Purchasing Manual to include policies and procedures for suspension and debarment searches and retaining support for suspension and debarment check. c. Communicate and re-enforce its procurement policies and procedures to ensure compliance with applicable requirements. d. Centralize the procurement process to ensure all departments are following applicable procedures in a uniform manner. Views of Responsible Officials: The City of Evanston implemented a revised Purchasing Manual as of March 2023. We agree with the auditor?s recommendations and will further review and revise the Purchasing Manual and communicate and reinforce policies and procedures to all departments to ensure compliance with applicable requirements.
FINDING 2022-001 Procurement, Suspension and Debarment (Repeat Finding 2021-001) Federal Agency: Department of the Treasury Federal Program: 21.027 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (CSLFRF) Criteria: The Department of the Treasury?s Interim Final Rule (Effective May 17, 2021 through March 31, 2022) and the Final Rule (Effective April 1, 2022) encouraged the use of internal Procurement Policies and Procedures when procuring products and/or services. The Department of the Treasury?s Compliance and Reporting Guidance report (Effective June 24, 2021 through April 30, 2025) required recipients (i.e., City of Evanston) to ensure any procurement using CSLFRF funds to be consistent with the procurement standards set forth in the Uniform Guidance at 2 CFR 200.317 through 2 CFR 200.327 as applicable. Procurement Standards of Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Costs Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) state that all non-federal entities will follow Section 200.318 through Section 200.327. A. Section 200.320 identifies four methods of procurement to be followed, among the methods of procurement the below are three identified thresholds: (a) Informal ? micro purchases (any amount up to $10,000) (b) Informal ? small purchases ($10,000.01 to $249,999.99) (c) Formal ? sealed bids ($250,000 and above) (d) Noncompetitive procurement B. The City of Evanston Purchasing Manual requires the collection of three written quotes for any purchase between $2,500 and $25,000 purchased with federal grant funds, a formal bid process (Bid, RFP, RFQ) for any purchase $25,000 or above purchased with federal grant funds, and a justification memo for a sole source purchase for any amount above $2,500 purchased with federal grant funds. C. The City of Evanston Purchasing Manual requires that for purchases above $2,500 but less than $10,000, approval signature must be obtained from the Department Director. All purchases above $10,000 require approval signature from the City Manager. Purchases above $25,000 must also be approved by the City Council. D. Per Title 2 CFR section 180.300, participant entering into a covered transaction must verify that the person with whom it intends to do business is not excluded or disqualified by: (a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. E. Title 2 CFR section 200.303 states the following regarding internal control: ?The auditee shall maintain internal control over Federal programs that provides reasonable assurance that the auditee is managing Federal awards in compliance with law, regulations, and the provisions of contracts or grant agreements that could have a material effect on each of its Federal programs.? Condition/Context: 1. We tested nine purchase orders totaling $2,408,526. Our procedures revealed the following: a. Two (2) purchase orders in the amount of $27,739 and $150,525 respectively, were purchases greater than $25,000 each, and for which the City of Evanston did not complete a formal procurement process (competitively bid) following its own Purchasing Manual and/or obtain the required three quotations following Section 200.320 of Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). b. For seven (7) purchase orders totaling $2,391,116, documentation demonstrating that suspension and debarment searches were performed could not be provided by the City of Evanston. c. For one (1) purchase order totaling $700,405, procurement documentation was not provided nor retained by the City of Evanston from third party procurement service provider. Cause: 1. The City of Evanston?s procurement policies do not include processes pertaining to monitoring and review procedures of procurement processes conducted by external procurement service providers to ensure compliance with all applicable procurement policies. 2. The City of Evanston?s procurement policies do not include processes pertaining to entity-wide suspension and debarment checks. 3. Where policies are in place for internal procurement they are not being followed. Effect: City of Evanston is not in compliance with Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200 and the requirements outlined in the City of Evanston Purchasing Manual as it relates to purchases above $25,000. Additionally, the effect of noncompliance can result in questioned costs. Recommendation: We recommend that City of Evanston: a. Implement structures to monitor external procurement service providers to ensure their procurement methods comply with applicable federal compliance requirements. b. Further expand Purchasing Manual to include policies and procedures for suspension and debarment searches and retaining support for suspension and debarment check. c. Communicate and re-enforce its procurement policies and procedures to ensure compliance with applicable requirements. d. Centralize the procurement process to ensure all departments are following applicable procedures in a uniform manner. Views of Responsible Officials: The City of Evanston implemented a revised Purchasing Manual as of March 2023. We agree with the auditor?s recommendations and will further review and revise the Purchasing Manual and communicate and reinforce policies and procedures to all departments to ensure compliance with applicable requirements.
FINDING 2022-001 Procurement, Suspension and Debarment (Repeat Finding 2021-001) Federal Agency: Department of the Treasury Federal Program: 21.027 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (CSLFRF) Criteria: The Department of the Treasury?s Interim Final Rule (Effective May 17, 2021 through March 31, 2022) and the Final Rule (Effective April 1, 2022) encouraged the use of internal Procurement Policies and Procedures when procuring products and/or services. The Department of the Treasury?s Compliance and Reporting Guidance report (Effective June 24, 2021 through April 30, 2025) required recipients (i.e., City of Evanston) to ensure any procurement using CSLFRF funds to be consistent with the procurement standards set forth in the Uniform Guidance at 2 CFR 200.317 through 2 CFR 200.327 as applicable. Procurement Standards of Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Costs Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) state that all non-federal entities will follow Section 200.318 through Section 200.327. A. Section 200.320 identifies four methods of procurement to be followed, among the methods of procurement the below are three identified thresholds: (a) Informal ? micro purchases (any amount up to $10,000) (b) Informal ? small purchases ($10,000.01 to $249,999.99) (c) Formal ? sealed bids ($250,000 and above) (d) Noncompetitive procurement B. The City of Evanston Purchasing Manual requires the collection of three written quotes for any purchase between $2,500 and $25,000 purchased with federal grant funds, a formal bid process (Bid, RFP, RFQ) for any purchase $25,000 or above purchased with federal grant funds, and a justification memo for a sole source purchase for any amount above $2,500 purchased with federal grant funds. C. The City of Evanston Purchasing Manual requires that for purchases above $2,500 but less than $10,000, approval signature must be obtained from the Department Director. All purchases above $10,000 require approval signature from the City Manager. Purchases above $25,000 must also be approved by the City Council. D. Per Title 2 CFR section 180.300, participant entering into a covered transaction must verify that the person with whom it intends to do business is not excluded or disqualified by: (a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. E. Title 2 CFR section 200.303 states the following regarding internal control: ?The auditee shall maintain internal control over Federal programs that provides reasonable assurance that the auditee is managing Federal awards in compliance with law, regulations, and the provisions of contracts or grant agreements that could have a material effect on each of its Federal programs.? Condition/Context: 1. We tested nine purchase orders totaling $2,408,526. Our procedures revealed the following: a. Two (2) purchase orders in the amount of $27,739 and $150,525 respectively, were purchases greater than $25,000 each, and for which the City of Evanston did not complete a formal procurement process (competitively bid) following its own Purchasing Manual and/or obtain the required three quotations following Section 200.320 of Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). b. For seven (7) purchase orders totaling $2,391,116, documentation demonstrating that suspension and debarment searches were performed could not be provided by the City of Evanston. c. For one (1) purchase order totaling $700,405, procurement documentation was not provided nor retained by the City of Evanston from third party procurement service provider. Cause: 1. The City of Evanston?s procurement policies do not include processes pertaining to monitoring and review procedures of procurement processes conducted by external procurement service providers to ensure compliance with all applicable procurement policies. 2. The City of Evanston?s procurement policies do not include processes pertaining to entity-wide suspension and debarment checks. 3. Where policies are in place for internal procurement they are not being followed. Effect: City of Evanston is not in compliance with Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200 and the requirements outlined in the City of Evanston Purchasing Manual as it relates to purchases above $25,000. Additionally, the effect of noncompliance can result in questioned costs. Recommendation: We recommend that City of Evanston: a. Implement structures to monitor external procurement service providers to ensure their procurement methods comply with applicable federal compliance requirements. b. Further expand Purchasing Manual to include policies and procedures for suspension and debarment searches and retaining support for suspension and debarment check. c. Communicate and re-enforce its procurement policies and procedures to ensure compliance with applicable requirements. d. Centralize the procurement process to ensure all departments are following applicable procedures in a uniform manner. Views of Responsible Officials: The City of Evanston implemented a revised Purchasing Manual as of March 2023. We agree with the auditor?s recommendations and will further review and revise the Purchasing Manual and communicate and reinforce policies and procedures to all departments to ensure compliance with applicable requirements.
FINDING 2022-001 Procurement, Suspension and Debarment (Repeat Finding 2021-001) Federal Agency: Department of the Treasury Federal Program: 21.027 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (CSLFRF) Criteria: The Department of the Treasury?s Interim Final Rule (Effective May 17, 2021 through March 31, 2022) and the Final Rule (Effective April 1, 2022) encouraged the use of internal Procurement Policies and Procedures when procuring products and/or services. The Department of the Treasury?s Compliance and Reporting Guidance report (Effective June 24, 2021 through April 30, 2025) required recipients (i.e., City of Evanston) to ensure any procurement using CSLFRF funds to be consistent with the procurement standards set forth in the Uniform Guidance at 2 CFR 200.317 through 2 CFR 200.327 as applicable. Procurement Standards of Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Costs Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) state that all non-federal entities will follow Section 200.318 through Section 200.327. A. Section 200.320 identifies four methods of procurement to be followed, among the methods of procurement the below are three identified thresholds: (a) Informal ? micro purchases (any amount up to $10,000) (b) Informal ? small purchases ($10,000.01 to $249,999.99) (c) Formal ? sealed bids ($250,000 and above) (d) Noncompetitive procurement B. The City of Evanston Purchasing Manual requires the collection of three written quotes for any purchase between $2,500 and $25,000 purchased with federal grant funds, a formal bid process (Bid, RFP, RFQ) for any purchase $25,000 or above purchased with federal grant funds, and a justification memo for a sole source purchase for any amount above $2,500 purchased with federal grant funds. C. The City of Evanston Purchasing Manual requires that for purchases above $2,500 but less than $10,000, approval signature must be obtained from the Department Director. All purchases above $10,000 require approval signature from the City Manager. Purchases above $25,000 must also be approved by the City Council. D. Per Title 2 CFR section 180.300, participant entering into a covered transaction must verify that the person with whom it intends to do business is not excluded or disqualified by: (a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. E. Title 2 CFR section 200.303 states the following regarding internal control: ?The auditee shall maintain internal control over Federal programs that provides reasonable assurance that the auditee is managing Federal awards in compliance with law, regulations, and the provisions of contracts or grant agreements that could have a material effect on each of its Federal programs.? Condition/Context: 1. We tested nine purchase orders totaling $2,408,526. Our procedures revealed the following: a. Two (2) purchase orders in the amount of $27,739 and $150,525 respectively, were purchases greater than $25,000 each, and for which the City of Evanston did not complete a formal procurement process (competitively bid) following its own Purchasing Manual and/or obtain the required three quotations following Section 200.320 of Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). b. For seven (7) purchase orders totaling $2,391,116, documentation demonstrating that suspension and debarment searches were performed could not be provided by the City of Evanston. c. For one (1) purchase order totaling $700,405, procurement documentation was not provided nor retained by the City of Evanston from third party procurement service provider. Cause: 1. The City of Evanston?s procurement policies do not include processes pertaining to monitoring and review procedures of procurement processes conducted by external procurement service providers to ensure compliance with all applicable procurement policies. 2. The City of Evanston?s procurement policies do not include processes pertaining to entity-wide suspension and debarment checks. 3. Where policies are in place for internal procurement they are not being followed. Effect: City of Evanston is not in compliance with Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200 and the requirements outlined in the City of Evanston Purchasing Manual as it relates to purchases above $25,000. Additionally, the effect of noncompliance can result in questioned costs. Recommendation: We recommend that City of Evanston: a. Implement structures to monitor external procurement service providers to ensure their procurement methods comply with applicable federal compliance requirements. b. Further expand Purchasing Manual to include policies and procedures for suspension and debarment searches and retaining support for suspension and debarment check. c. Communicate and re-enforce its procurement policies and procedures to ensure compliance with applicable requirements. d. Centralize the procurement process to ensure all departments are following applicable procedures in a uniform manner. Views of Responsible Officials: The City of Evanston implemented a revised Purchasing Manual as of March 2023. We agree with the auditor?s recommendations and will further review and revise the Purchasing Manual and communicate and reinforce policies and procedures to all departments to ensure compliance with applicable requirements.
FINDING 2022-001 Procurement, Suspension and Debarment (Repeat Finding 2021-001) Federal Agency: Department of the Treasury Federal Program: 21.027 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (CSLFRF) Criteria: The Department of the Treasury?s Interim Final Rule (Effective May 17, 2021 through March 31, 2022) and the Final Rule (Effective April 1, 2022) encouraged the use of internal Procurement Policies and Procedures when procuring products and/or services. The Department of the Treasury?s Compliance and Reporting Guidance report (Effective June 24, 2021 through April 30, 2025) required recipients (i.e., City of Evanston) to ensure any procurement using CSLFRF funds to be consistent with the procurement standards set forth in the Uniform Guidance at 2 CFR 200.317 through 2 CFR 200.327 as applicable. Procurement Standards of Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Costs Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) state that all non-federal entities will follow Section 200.318 through Section 200.327. A. Section 200.320 identifies four methods of procurement to be followed, among the methods of procurement the below are three identified thresholds: (a) Informal ? micro purchases (any amount up to $10,000) (b) Informal ? small purchases ($10,000.01 to $249,999.99) (c) Formal ? sealed bids ($250,000 and above) (d) Noncompetitive procurement B. The City of Evanston Purchasing Manual requires the collection of three written quotes for any purchase between $2,500 and $25,000 purchased with federal grant funds, a formal bid process (Bid, RFP, RFQ) for any purchase $25,000 or above purchased with federal grant funds, and a justification memo for a sole source purchase for any amount above $2,500 purchased with federal grant funds. C. The City of Evanston Purchasing Manual requires that for purchases above $2,500 but less than $10,000, approval signature must be obtained from the Department Director. All purchases above $10,000 require approval signature from the City Manager. Purchases above $25,000 must also be approved by the City Council. D. Per Title 2 CFR section 180.300, participant entering into a covered transaction must verify that the person with whom it intends to do business is not excluded or disqualified by: (a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. E. Title 2 CFR section 200.303 states the following regarding internal control: ?The auditee shall maintain internal control over Federal programs that provides reasonable assurance that the auditee is managing Federal awards in compliance with law, regulations, and the provisions of contracts or grant agreements that could have a material effect on each of its Federal programs.? Condition/Context: 1. We tested nine purchase orders totaling $2,408,526. Our procedures revealed the following: a. Two (2) purchase orders in the amount of $27,739 and $150,525 respectively, were purchases greater than $25,000 each, and for which the City of Evanston did not complete a formal procurement process (competitively bid) following its own Purchasing Manual and/or obtain the required three quotations following Section 200.320 of Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). b. For seven (7) purchase orders totaling $2,391,116, documentation demonstrating that suspension and debarment searches were performed could not be provided by the City of Evanston. c. For one (1) purchase order totaling $700,405, procurement documentation was not provided nor retained by the City of Evanston from third party procurement service provider. Cause: 1. The City of Evanston?s procurement policies do not include processes pertaining to monitoring and review procedures of procurement processes conducted by external procurement service providers to ensure compliance with all applicable procurement policies. 2. The City of Evanston?s procurement policies do not include processes pertaining to entity-wide suspension and debarment checks. 3. Where policies are in place for internal procurement they are not being followed. Effect: City of Evanston is not in compliance with Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200 and the requirements outlined in the City of Evanston Purchasing Manual as it relates to purchases above $25,000. Additionally, the effect of noncompliance can result in questioned costs. Recommendation: We recommend that City of Evanston: a. Implement structures to monitor external procurement service providers to ensure their procurement methods comply with applicable federal compliance requirements. b. Further expand Purchasing Manual to include policies and procedures for suspension and debarment searches and retaining support for suspension and debarment check. c. Communicate and re-enforce its procurement policies and procedures to ensure compliance with applicable requirements. d. Centralize the procurement process to ensure all departments are following applicable procedures in a uniform manner. Views of Responsible Officials: The City of Evanston implemented a revised Purchasing Manual as of March 2023. We agree with the auditor?s recommendations and will further review and revise the Purchasing Manual and communicate and reinforce policies and procedures to all departments to ensure compliance with applicable requirements.
Finding 2022-003 - Procurement (Compliance) ALN No.: 93.829 - Section 223 Demonstration Programs to Improve Community Mental Health Services Award Year: January 1, 2022 ? December 31, 2022 Federal Agency: United States Department of Health and Human Services Pass Through Entity: Not applicable Criteria: Under 2 CFR Part 200.318(a) of the Uniform Guidance the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards 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 2 CFR Part 200.317 through 200.327. Condition/Context: South Shore does not have documented procurement procedures in accordance with Uniform guidance standards. Cause: South Shore did not adequately document in form of a written procurement policy, however they were aware of and were following the federal procurement standards under the Uniform Guidance. Effect: South Shore has not complied with the specific requirements for procurement as described in the Uniform Guidance. South Shore is following applicable standards but did not have a formally documented policy. Questioned Costs: None. Recommendation: South Shore should develop a documented procurement policy in accordance with the Uniform Guidance. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the recommendation and plans to develop a formal procurement policy.
FINDING 2022-003 Subject: COVID-19 - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of the Treasury Federal Program: COVID-19 - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Assistance Listings Number: 21.027 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): CY 2022, SWIF220329 Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context The Town received a total State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) allocation of $140,378 directly from the U.S. Department of the Treasury (Treasury). During the audit period, the Town expended these funds out of the revenue loss use category. The Treasury has decided that only some of the provisions in the Uniform Guidance apply to the revenue loss use category, as such, the provisions related to procurement, per the Treasury, are not applicable to the revenue loss use category. Therefore, the Town's use of its SLFRF funds received directly from the Treasury are not subject to procurement testing. In addition, the Town received an SLFRF allocation of $800,000 from the Indiana Finance Authority through the State Water Infrastructure or Transportation (SWIF) grant program. These funds are subject to the procurement provisions as outlined in the Uniform Guidance. The suspension and debarment provisions apply to all SLFRF funds regardless of use category or who (Treasury or other entity) awarded the funds. Procurement - Policy (SWIF award) Non-federal entities must follow procurement standards set out in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) in addition to its own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements idented in 2 CFR Part 200. The Town did not have its own documented procurement procedures or policies that reflected applicable state laws and regulations or federal statutes for procuring goods and services paid with federal funds. Procurement - Simplified Acquisition (SWIF award) When the value of the procurement for property or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT), or a lower threshold established by a non-federal entity, formal procurement methods are required. The SAT is typically set at $250,000; however, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold, and, therefore, the SAT is set at $150,000. Formal procurement methods require adherence to documented procedures and formal methods such as sealed bids or proposals. Two vendors were identified that fell within the SAT. Both vendors were selected for testing. One of the vendors, paid with SWIF funds, was originally contracted for $84,840, which is below the simplified acquisition threshold. At that time, the Town obtained quotes as would have been required at the small purchase threshold. However, the Town elected to change the scope of the project once SLFRF funds were awarded to cover additional improvements. As the scope of the project changed and the total price increased to over $429,000, more than 20 percent above of the original contract price, the project should have been reviewed and bid out. Since the new total of the project was over the SAT and formal procurement methods were not adhered to, this vendor was not properly procured. Suspension and Debarment (Treasury award) Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients are required to verify that such contracts and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods and services awarded under a non-procurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the Excluded Parties List System (EPLS), collecting a certification from that person, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. Due to the Treasury's determination that the revenue loss eligible use category does not give rise to subawards, the Town was only required to comply with suspension and debarment requirements related to covered transactions. Upon inquiry of the Town to determine its policies and procedures related to suspension and debarment requirements for the money received directly from the Treasury, the Town stated procedures had not been performed to ensure vendors were not suspended or debarred prior to entering into covered transactions. Two covered transactions for goods or services that equaled or exceeded $25,000 paid from the direct SLFRF funds during the audit period were identified. Both transactions were examined to determine whether the Town verified the suspension and debarment status of the vendors prior to payment. The Town had not performed procedures to ensure the two vendors were not suspended or debarred, or otherwise excluded or disqualified from participating in federal assistance programs or activities for suspension or debarment. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. The noncompliance for procurement was isolated to the SLFRF SWIF funding, and the noncompliance for suspension and debarment was isolated to the SLFRF direct funding. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in 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 200.318(a) states: "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." 2 CFR 200.320(b) states in part: "Formal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or services under the Federal financial assistance award exceeds the SAT, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal procurement methods are required. Formal procurement methods require following documented procedures. Formal procurement methods also require public advertising unless a non-competitive procurement can be used in accordance with ? 200.319 or paragraph (c) of this section. The following formal methods of procurement are used for procurement of property or services above the simplified acquisition threshold or a value below the simplified acquisition threshold the non-Federal entity determines to be appropriate: (1) Sealed bids. . . . (ii) If sealed bids are used the following requirements apply: (A) Bids must be solicited from an adequate number of qualified sources . . . (2) Proposals. . . . (i) Requests for proposals must be publicized and identify all evaluation factors and their relative importance. Proposals must be solicited from an adequate number qualified offerors. . . ." 2 CFR 200.320(c) states: "Noncompetitive procurement. There are specific circumstances in which noncompetitive procurement can be used. Noncompetitive procurement can only be awarded if one or more of the following circumstances apply: (1) The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which does not exceed the micro-purchase threshold (see paragraph (a)(1) of this section); (2) The items is available only from a single source; (3) The public exigency or emergency for the requirement will not permit a delay resulting from publicizing a competitive solicitation; (4) The Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity expressly authorizes a noncompetitive procurement in response to a written request from the non-Federal entity; or (5) After solicitation of a number of sources, competition is determined inadequate." Indiana Code 5-22-10-9 states: "A purchasing agent may make a special purchase when purchase of the required supplies or services under another purchasing method under this article would seriously impair the functioning of the using agency." 31 CFR 19.300 states: "When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You do this by: (a) Checking the EPLS; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person if allowed by this rule; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed or implemented, which includes segregation of key functions, by management of the Town to ensure that policies and procedures were in place related to procurement and suspension and debarment. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the Town's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, vendors to whom payments equal to or in excess of $25,000 were not verified to be not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded and contracts exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold were not properly bid. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions or the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the Town. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the Town establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure proper procurement procedures are followed and that contractors and subrecipients, as appropriate, are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into any contracts or subawards. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2022-003 Subject: COVID-19 - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of the Treasury Federal Program: COVID-19 - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Assistance Listings Number: 21.027 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): CY 2022, SWIF220329 Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context The Town received a total State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) allocation of $140,378 directly from the U.S. Department of the Treasury (Treasury). During the audit period, the Town expended these funds out of the revenue loss use category. The Treasury has decided that only some of the provisions in the Uniform Guidance apply to the revenue loss use category, as such, the provisions related to procurement, per the Treasury, are not applicable to the revenue loss use category. Therefore, the Town's use of its SLFRF funds received directly from the Treasury are not subject to procurement testing. In addition, the Town received an SLFRF allocation of $800,000 from the Indiana Finance Authority through the State Water Infrastructure or Transportation (SWIF) grant program. These funds are subject to the procurement provisions as outlined in the Uniform Guidance. The suspension and debarment provisions apply to all SLFRF funds regardless of use category or who (Treasury or other entity) awarded the funds. Procurement - Policy (SWIF award) Non-federal entities must follow procurement standards set out in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) in addition to its own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements idented in 2 CFR Part 200. The Town did not have its own documented procurement procedures or policies that reflected applicable state laws and regulations or federal statutes for procuring goods and services paid with federal funds. Procurement - Simplified Acquisition (SWIF award) When the value of the procurement for property or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT), or a lower threshold established by a non-federal entity, formal procurement methods are required. The SAT is typically set at $250,000; however, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold, and, therefore, the SAT is set at $150,000. Formal procurement methods require adherence to documented procedures and formal methods such as sealed bids or proposals. Two vendors were identified that fell within the SAT. Both vendors were selected for testing. One of the vendors, paid with SWIF funds, was originally contracted for $84,840, which is below the simplified acquisition threshold. At that time, the Town obtained quotes as would have been required at the small purchase threshold. However, the Town elected to change the scope of the project once SLFRF funds were awarded to cover additional improvements. As the scope of the project changed and the total price increased to over $429,000, more than 20 percent above of the original contract price, the project should have been reviewed and bid out. Since the new total of the project was over the SAT and formal procurement methods were not adhered to, this vendor was not properly procured. Suspension and Debarment (Treasury award) Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients are required to verify that such contracts and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods and services awarded under a non-procurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the Excluded Parties List System (EPLS), collecting a certification from that person, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. Due to the Treasury's determination that the revenue loss eligible use category does not give rise to subawards, the Town was only required to comply with suspension and debarment requirements related to covered transactions. Upon inquiry of the Town to determine its policies and procedures related to suspension and debarment requirements for the money received directly from the Treasury, the Town stated procedures had not been performed to ensure vendors were not suspended or debarred prior to entering into covered transactions. Two covered transactions for goods or services that equaled or exceeded $25,000 paid from the direct SLFRF funds during the audit period were identified. Both transactions were examined to determine whether the Town verified the suspension and debarment status of the vendors prior to payment. The Town had not performed procedures to ensure the two vendors were not suspended or debarred, or otherwise excluded or disqualified from participating in federal assistance programs or activities for suspension or debarment. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. The noncompliance for procurement was isolated to the SLFRF SWIF funding, and the noncompliance for suspension and debarment was isolated to the SLFRF direct funding. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in 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 200.318(a) states: "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." 2 CFR 200.320(b) states in part: "Formal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or services under the Federal financial assistance award exceeds the SAT, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal procurement methods are required. Formal procurement methods require following documented procedures. Formal procurement methods also require public advertising unless a non-competitive procurement can be used in accordance with ? 200.319 or paragraph (c) of this section. The following formal methods of procurement are used for procurement of property or services above the simplified acquisition threshold or a value below the simplified acquisition threshold the non-Federal entity determines to be appropriate: (1) Sealed bids. . . . (ii) If sealed bids are used the following requirements apply: (A) Bids must be solicited from an adequate number of qualified sources . . . (2) Proposals. . . . (i) Requests for proposals must be publicized and identify all evaluation factors and their relative importance. Proposals must be solicited from an adequate number qualified offerors. . . ." 2 CFR 200.320(c) states: "Noncompetitive procurement. There are specific circumstances in which noncompetitive procurement can be used. Noncompetitive procurement can only be awarded if one or more of the following circumstances apply: (1) The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which does not exceed the micro-purchase threshold (see paragraph (a)(1) of this section); (2) The items is available only from a single source; (3) The public exigency or emergency for the requirement will not permit a delay resulting from publicizing a competitive solicitation; (4) The Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity expressly authorizes a noncompetitive procurement in response to a written request from the non-Federal entity; or (5) After solicitation of a number of sources, competition is determined inadequate." Indiana Code 5-22-10-9 states: "A purchasing agent may make a special purchase when purchase of the required supplies or services under another purchasing method under this article would seriously impair the functioning of the using agency." 31 CFR 19.300 states: "When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You do this by: (a) Checking the EPLS; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person if allowed by this rule; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not designed or implemented, which includes segregation of key functions, by management of the Town to ensure that policies and procedures were in place related to procurement and suspension and debarment. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the Town's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, vendors to whom payments equal to or in excess of $25,000 were not verified to be not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded and contracts exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold were not properly bid. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions or the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the Town. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the Town establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure proper procurement procedures are followed and that contractors and subrecipients, as appropriate, are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into any contracts or subawards. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
Finding No. 2022-004: Procurement Policy ? Material Weakness in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Rare Disorders: Research, Surveillance, Health Promotion, and Education; Assistance Listing Number 93.315 Condition There is no evidence of a documented formal procurement policy with regards to federal grant awards and expenditures, no documented support that a competitive price analysis for vendors and organizations funded with federal grant funds were performed and no evidence that suspension and debarment verifications were performed for certain vendors and organizations, as required by the general procurement standards of the Uniform Guidance. Context We selected four samples which were deemed sole sourced by management and noted no written documentation for this conclusion or evidence of suspension or debarment verification being performed was maintained in the file. Based on our discussions with management, they were not aware of the Uniform Guidance requirements with regards to procurement. Criteria Under the Uniform Guidance Section 200.318, General Procurement Standards, a non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures 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 Sections 200.317 through 200.327. These sections include policies and procedures related to competition, informal and formal procurement methods and noncompetitive procurement also known as sole source. Under Uniform Guidance Section 200.214, Suspension and Debarment, and 2 CFR Part 180, non-federal entities are required to verify that vendors are not suspended or debarred from participating in federal funds. Cause Management stated it was not aware of the Uniform Guidance requirements with regards to procurement and, therefore, did not develop a procurement policy that includes the provisions of the general procurement standards required under the Uniform Guidance. Effect Charges relating to vendor services and sub-awards that were charged to the federal award may not be in accordance with the specific compliance requirements of the Uniform Guidance. Questioned Costs $97,078, representing total sub-awards and consulting expenses paid during the year. Repeat Finding No. Recommendation We recommend that the Association establish a written procurement policy governing contracts with vendors that will be reimbursed by federal grants to incorporate all of the provisions included in the general procurement standards of the Uniform Guidance Section 200.318 and the debarment and suspension regulations of Uniform Guidance Section 200.214. We also recommend that a review of all existing vendor or sub-awardee contract files be performed to ensure that the documentation as required under the Uniform Guidance is maintained in the files. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action See corrective action plan.
Finding 2022-001: Procurement policy and related contract This finding is a repeat finding of 2021-001 Criteria: 2 CFR section 200.318 ? General Procurement Standards, requires non-Federal entity to 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. Condition: We reviewed the water utility's procurement policy and service contracts with costs reimbursed during 2022, noting they did not contain necessary federal language related to conflicts of interest and debarment and suspension. Cause: The water utility has not received federal funding in the past and did not update their procurement policy when they sought federal funding for the Great Lakes Water Supply project. Additionally, service contracts were entered into prior to receiving federal funds. Effect: Without adequate control of contract language the water utility could enter into contracts related to the Great Lakes Water Supply project that do not qualify for federal reimbursement. Questioned Costs: None noted. Recommendation: We recommend the water utility review its procurement policy and make necessary updates to be in compliance with federal standards. Additionally, we recommend the utility enter into contract addendums related to contracts previously executed without required federal language. Management Response: Waukesha Water utility management has worked closely with WIFIA to craft contracts that include all necessary language prior to releasing RFPs for construction contracts. WIFIA was presented all service contracts to review prior to reimbursements received in fiscal year 2022. The finance department is working to update the procurement policy to ensure necessary federal language is included. The finance department will also work with service contractors to execute contract addendums.
2022-005 Assistance Listing Number 21.027 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Department of Treasury North Dakota State Water Commission Procurement Suspension & Debarment 2 CFR Part 200.318 Criteria 2 CFR Part 200.318 states that a non-Federal entity must have and use documented procedures, consistent with state, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of 2 CFR part 200.317 through 200.327. Condition District does not have a written procurement policy in place. Cause The District has not approved a written procurement policy. Effect Non-compliance with Procurement Suspension & Debarment compliance requirements. Questioned Costs Not Applicable Repeat Finding This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation We recommend for the board of the District to create and implement a procurement policy that adheres to state and local regulations as well as 2 CFR Part 200.317 through 200.327. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions The District will create and approve a procurement policy that adheres to state and local regulations as well as 2 CFR Part 200.317 through 200.327.
Finding 2022-006 Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment – Material Weakness. Criteria: In accordance with §200.318, the non-federal entity must use its own documented procurement procedures which reflect applicable laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal law and the standards identified. Additionally, the nonfederal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of the procurement. These records are required to 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. All procurement transactions must be conducted in in accordance with §200.317 through §200.327. In accordance with §200.214 non-federal entities cannot enter into awards, subawards, or contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in federal assistance programs or activities. Non-federal entities must either check for exclusions in the System for Award Management (SAM); collect a certification from the entity or add a clause or condition to the covered transaction with the entity prior to entering into a covered transaction with a non-federal entity. Condition: The Organization also has standard procurement procedures in place guiding purchasing decisions. However, due to need for expediency in choosing a contract that is partially funded by the federal award, the board of directors approved waiving the normal bidding process. The Organization also did not perform or document suspension and debarment checks on prospective vendors and subrecipients. Cause: The Organization’s personnel did not ensure to follow documented policies and procedures for selecting a contractor that were in compliance with the CFR 200. Additionally, the Organization did not have adequate internal controls in place to identify the need to ensure a check for suspended or debarred vendors on contractors occurred and was documented prior to entering into those agreements. Effect: Failure to maintain policies for vendor selection process and failure to obtain vendor solicitation for procurements is noncompliance with federal regulations. This leads to the possibility that resources were purchased from vendors who were suspended and/or debarred. Questioned Costs: Unknown Repeat Finding: Not applicable as the Organization is a first time auditee. Recommendation: Standard forms should be updated to incorporate procurement and suspension and debarment criteria for both vendors and subrecipients. Controls should be implemented to ensure that the procurement decisions and suspension and debarment checks are reviewed by an appropriate member of management and are properly stored for future reference. Views of Responsible Official: See Corrective Action Plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of the Treasury Federal Program Name: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Assistance Listing Number: 21.027 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: N/A Pass-Through Agency: State of Arizona, the Office of the Governor Pass-Through Number(s): GR-ARPA-AHCA-050122-01 Award Period: May 1, 2022 - June 30, 2024 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Other Matters Condition/Context: The following compliance matters were noted over procurement: 1. The Association did not maintain a formalized and written procurement policy. 2. Twelve vendor purchases for workforce development training, with costs between $10,000 and $15,000 each, were selected for testing. However, the Association did not follow the required solicitation or bidding procedures for any of its workforce development training vendors or program. The Association awarded contracts to all vendors within the state that elected to participate in the program. 3. For three of three vendors tested, procedures to determine that the vendors were not included on the suspended or debarred vendor list maintained by the General Services Administration were not performed. Criteria or specific requirement: In accordance with the Compliance Supplement, Part 6 – Internal Control, 2 CFR section 200.303 requires that nonfederal entities receiving federal awards establish and maintain internal control over the federal awards that provides reasonable assurance that the nonfederal entity is managing the federal awards in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal awards. In accordance with 2 CFR 200.318 (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. In accordance with 2 CFR 200.320 (a)(2)(i), 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. Small purchase procedures - the acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. Criteria or specific requirement (Continued) In accordance with 2 CFR 200.320 (b)(1 and 2), 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. Formal procurement methods - when the value of the procurement for property or services under a Federal financial assistance award exceeds the SAT, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal procurement methods are required. Formal procurement methods require following documented procedures. Formal procurement methods also require public advertising unless a non-competitive procurement can be used in accordance with § 200.319 or paragraph (c) of this section. The following formal methods of procurement are used for procurement of property or services above the simplified acquisition threshold or a value below the simplified acquisition threshold the non-Federal entity determines to be appropriate: (1) sealed bids, or (2) proposals. In accordance with 2 CFR 200.320 (c), 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. Noncompetitive procurement: there are specific circumstances in which noncompetitive procurement can be used. Noncompetitive procurement can only be awarded if one or more of the following circumstances apply: (1) The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which does not exceed the micro-purchase threshold (see paragraph (a)(1) of this section); (2) The item is available only from a single source; (3) The public exigency or emergency for the requirement will not permit a delay resulting from publicizing a competitive solicitation; (4) The Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity expressly authorizes a noncompetitive procurement in response to a written request from the non-Federal entity; or (5) After solicitation of a number of sources, competition is determined inadequate. In accordance with 2 CFR 180.220, the 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). All non-procurement transactions entered into by a pass-through entity (i.e., subawards to subrecipients), irrespective of award amount, are considered covered transactions, unless they are exempt as provided in 2 CFR section 180.215. Questioned costs: None. Cause: The Organization did not have established procurement policies and did not have internal controls designed to ensure compliance with those policies. Management awarded training contracts to all vendors who agreed to participate in the grant award program. Effect: The Organization was not in compliance with the Compliance Supplement and the Code of Federal Regulations related to procurement and suspension and debarment provisions. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization adopt a formal and written procurement policy. Additionally, management should develop controls to help ensure procurement procedures are followed and to monitor the amount spent with vendors throughout the year to ensure procurement procedures are initiated when the vendor costs exceed the procurement thresholds. These procedures will help ensure compliance with Compliance Supplement and the Code of Federal Regulations related to procurement and suspension and debarment provisions. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the audit condition.
Finding 2022–003: Procurement Federal Department: U.S. Department of Treasury Pass-through Agencies: Cook County, Illinois and Women's Business Development Center COVID-19 - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds, Federal Assistance Listing Number 21.027 Criteria 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, Subpart D – Post-Federal Award Requirements Standards for Financial and Program Management Section 200.318, General procurement standards (a) states “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 Section 200.317 through 200.327.” Section 200.318 (i) states “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.” SDA’s Fiscal Policies and Procedures Manual updated July 21, 2022 (“the Manual”) states “Procurement shall be made using one of the following methods: 1) Micro and Small Purchase Threshold; 2) Competitive Sealed Bids and Competitive Negotiations and 3) Non-Competitive Negotiations. All methods of procurement, when funded by federal grants or contracts, must follow procurement requirements contained in the OMB, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Costs Principles, and Audit Requirements for federal awards. Any purchases over $10,000 must bid competitively if subject to a single federal audit.” In addition, the Manual states “purchases related to Federally funded grants over $10,000 will be bid through either a Request for Proposal (RFP) or Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process. In addition, Request for Information (RFI) process may be used to help inform the development of either RFP, RFQ or other forms of procurement. Awards will be awarded to responses that meet the outlined criteria and reflect the lowest responsible bid. Contractors will be excluded from conducting business with the SDA if the contractor has been debarred and/or suspended from conducting business with the federal government. On a regular basis, the SDA will check vendors for any debarment status change on the federal System for Award Management (SAM). All source documents supporting any given transaction (e.g., receipts, invoices, and RFP data) will be retained and filed with SDA contract files in a centralized location. At a minimum, source document data must be sufficient to establish the basis for selection, the basis for the cost (including the reasonableness of cost), the rationale for the method of procurement and selection of contract type, and the basis for payment.” Condition During the current audit period, SDA did not adequately ensure federally funded contract issued to vendors followed federal regulations and its internal policy, which includes maintaining documents to support its procurement decisions. Cause Based on our discussions with management, SDA completed the RFQ process for this vendor but did not maintain the documentation of the decision-making process and scoring as outlined in its procurement policy. The documentation was deleted by a staff member who left the organization. Effect The failure to maintain adequate documentation to support the procurement of federally funded contracts is a violation of federal regulations. Questioned Costs None. Context During the test of procurement, SDA management identified two contracts with expenditures over the $10,000 threshold requiring competitive bid per its internal policy. For one contract, management noted that procurement was completed in 2021, hence outside the audit period. For the second contract, we noted that while an RFQ was obtained from the contractor, there was no evidence to support the basis for contractor selection (based on evaluation criteria and scoring outlined in the RFQ), the basis for the contract price, and evidence that debarment/suspension verification checks were performed prior to awarding the contract. Identification of Repeated Findings None. Recommendation We recommend that SDA’s management adhere to its written policy and maintain documentation to support all management decisions related to federally funded procurements to comply with federal regulations. Also, SDA should consider creating a checklist/internal form to document its procurement decisions and related approvals, as required. We also recommend that SDA develop procedures to identify all federally funded contracts let/awarded during the fiscal year to ensure compliance with its internal policy. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action SDA agrees with the finding and recommendation. See SDA’s Corrective Action Plan on pages 40–44.
Finding 2022–003: Procurement Federal Department: U.S. Department of Treasury Pass-through Agencies: Cook County, Illinois and Women's Business Development Center COVID-19 - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds, Federal Assistance Listing Number 21.027 Criteria 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, Subpart D – Post-Federal Award Requirements Standards for Financial and Program Management Section 200.318, General procurement standards (a) states “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 Section 200.317 through 200.327.” Section 200.318 (i) states “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.” SDA’s Fiscal Policies and Procedures Manual updated July 21, 2022 (“the Manual”) states “Procurement shall be made using one of the following methods: 1) Micro and Small Purchase Threshold; 2) Competitive Sealed Bids and Competitive Negotiations and 3) Non-Competitive Negotiations. All methods of procurement, when funded by federal grants or contracts, must follow procurement requirements contained in the OMB, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Costs Principles, and Audit Requirements for federal awards. Any purchases over $10,000 must bid competitively if subject to a single federal audit.” In addition, the Manual states “purchases related to Federally funded grants over $10,000 will be bid through either a Request for Proposal (RFP) or Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process. In addition, Request for Information (RFI) process may be used to help inform the development of either RFP, RFQ or other forms of procurement. Awards will be awarded to responses that meet the outlined criteria and reflect the lowest responsible bid. Contractors will be excluded from conducting business with the SDA if the contractor has been debarred and/or suspended from conducting business with the federal government. On a regular basis, the SDA will check vendors for any debarment status change on the federal System for Award Management (SAM). All source documents supporting any given transaction (e.g., receipts, invoices, and RFP data) will be retained and filed with SDA contract files in a centralized location. At a minimum, source document data must be sufficient to establish the basis for selection, the basis for the cost (including the reasonableness of cost), the rationale for the method of procurement and selection of contract type, and the basis for payment.” Condition During the current audit period, SDA did not adequately ensure federally funded contract issued to vendors followed federal regulations and its internal policy, which includes maintaining documents to support its procurement decisions. Cause Based on our discussions with management, SDA completed the RFQ process for this vendor but did not maintain the documentation of the decision-making process and scoring as outlined in its procurement policy. The documentation was deleted by a staff member who left the organization. Effect The failure to maintain adequate documentation to support the procurement of federally funded contracts is a violation of federal regulations. Questioned Costs None. Context During the test of procurement, SDA management identified two contracts with expenditures over the $10,000 threshold requiring competitive bid per its internal policy. For one contract, management noted that procurement was completed in 2021, hence outside the audit period. For the second contract, we noted that while an RFQ was obtained from the contractor, there was no evidence to support the basis for contractor selection (based on evaluation criteria and scoring outlined in the RFQ), the basis for the contract price, and evidence that debarment/suspension verification checks were performed prior to awarding the contract. Identification of Repeated Findings None. Recommendation We recommend that SDA’s management adhere to its written policy and maintain documentation to support all management decisions related to federally funded procurements to comply with federal regulations. Also, SDA should consider creating a checklist/internal form to document its procurement decisions and related approvals, as required. We also recommend that SDA develop procedures to identify all federally funded contracts let/awarded during the fiscal year to ensure compliance with its internal policy. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action SDA agrees with the finding and recommendation. See SDA’s Corrective Action Plan on pages 40–44.
Finding 2022-003: Lack of Documented Procurement Procedures U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Section 223 Demonstration Programs for Improving Community Mental Health Services – Assistance Listing No. 93.829 Compliance Findings: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment (I) Criteria: The Standard Terms and Conditons for all SAMHSA’s awards requires that grantees comply with Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulation (CFR) section 200.318 through 200.321. In accordance with 2 CFR section 200.320, a non-federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of 2 CFR section 200.317 through 200.320 for any method of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or sub-award. Condition: The Organization does not have documented procurement procedures that incorporate all the requirements of 2 CFR section 200.317 through 200.320. Cause: Unknown. Questioned Costs: None. Effect: The Organization is not in compliance with 2 CFR section 200.320 or the terms of the grant agreement. Identification of Repeat Finding: Not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization adopt a written procurement policy which includes all requirements of 2 CFR section 200.317 through 200.320. Views of Responsible Officials: The Organization agrees with the finding and will adopt a documented procurement policy consistent with the standards of 2 CFR section 200.317 through 200.320 to use for procurement of the acquisition of property or services required under federal awards or sub-awards. Additional details can be found in the Organization’s Corrective Action Plan.
Finding 2022-002: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Assistance Listing Number: 19.510 Federal Program: U.S. Refugee Admissions Program Federal Agency: U.S. Department of State Pass-Through Entity: Church World Service Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria: Per guidance 2 CFR section 200.320, non-Federal entities must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of 2 CFR sections 200.320, 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319. Condition: We noted Team Rubicon’s procurement policy was missing key detail, including procurement procedures related to conflicts of interest, the search for suspended and debarred parties, and approved methods of procurement, including the specific situations where noncompetitive procurement is appropriate. Cause: The error was primarily due to a misunderstanding of certain federal compliance requirements. Effect or Potential Effect: A failure to identify federal compliance requirements could result in Team Rubicon not being in compliance with federal statutes, regulations and the terms and conditions of federal awards. Questioned Costs: None noted Context: During the year ended December 31, 2022, Team Rubicon was a recipient of a federal award, making Team Rubicon a subrecipient of the award and subject to certain federal compliance requirements including Procurement and Suspension and Debarment. Repeat Finding: Not applicable Recommendation: Management is responsible for establishing controls and procedures to ensure compliance with federal statutes, regulations and the terms and conditions of the federal awards. Views of Responsible Official: Management agrees and acknowledges the finding.
Program: Continuum of Care, Emergency Solutions Grant Program Federal Financial Assistance Listing No.:14.267, 14.231 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through: Sacramento Steps Forward, Sacramento County Department of Human Assistance Award Year: 2022 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Grant Award Number: CA0955L9T032007, CA0955L9T032108, CA0143L9T032013, CA0143L9T032114, CA1303L9T032006, CA1303L9T032107, DHA-PRTS-NM-06-22, DHA-NM-03-22, DHA-NM-03-23, DHA-NM-08-23, DHA-NM-10-23 Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Controls Over Compliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303(a) of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and conditions of the federal award. The nonfederal entity’s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR 200 Appendix II requires certain provisions be included in contracts if criteria are met. As outlined in 2 CFR 180, recipients must not utilize any contractor which is suspended or debarred or is otherwise excluded from the central contractor registry. Condition Found: The Organization’s procurement policy did not include all the required elements as outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Additionally, the Organization did not retain documentation to support the procedures performed to ensure compliance with suspension and debarment requirements. Questioned Costs: No questioned costs were identified as a result of our procedures. Context/ Sampling: Suspension and debarment was applicable to 13 contractors totaling $1,661,410 under the Continuum of Care Program and six contractors totaling $253,310 under the Emergency Solutions Grant Program. We tested all contractors. Repeat Finding from Prior Years: No. Effect: Lack of complete procurement, suspension, and debarment policies and not retaining documentation to support compliance with suspension and debarment requirements could result in noncompliance with Uniform Guidance. Cause: The Organization does not typically receive federal financial assistance that is subject to procurement and suspension and debarment regulations; consequently, certain elements required by the Uniform Guidance were missing. Recommendation: We recommend that management develop a written procurement policy that conforms with Uniform Guidance. In addition, we recommend that management implement procedures and control processes to retain documentation supporting compliance with major federal program compliance requirements regarding suspension and debarment. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees. See separately issued Corrective Action Plan.
Program: Continuum of Care, Emergency Solutions Grant Program Federal Financial Assistance Listing No.:14.267, 14.231 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through: Sacramento Steps Forward, Sacramento County Department of Human Assistance Award Year: 2022 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Grant Award Number: CA0955L9T032007, CA0955L9T032108, CA0143L9T032013, CA0143L9T032114, CA1303L9T032006, CA1303L9T032107, DHA-PRTS-NM-06-22, DHA-NM-03-22, DHA-NM-03-23, DHA-NM-08-23, DHA-NM-10-23 Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Controls Over Compliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303(a) of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and conditions of the federal award. The nonfederal entity’s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR 200 Appendix II requires certain provisions be included in contracts if criteria are met. As outlined in 2 CFR 180, recipients must not utilize any contractor which is suspended or debarred or is otherwise excluded from the central contractor registry. Condition Found: The Organization’s procurement policy did not include all the required elements as outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Additionally, the Organization did not retain documentation to support the procedures performed to ensure compliance with suspension and debarment requirements. Questioned Costs: No questioned costs were identified as a result of our procedures. Context/ Sampling: Suspension and debarment was applicable to 13 contractors totaling $1,661,410 under the Continuum of Care Program and six contractors totaling $253,310 under the Emergency Solutions Grant Program. We tested all contractors. Repeat Finding from Prior Years: No. Effect: Lack of complete procurement, suspension, and debarment policies and not retaining documentation to support compliance with suspension and debarment requirements could result in noncompliance with Uniform Guidance. Cause: The Organization does not typically receive federal financial assistance that is subject to procurement and suspension and debarment regulations; consequently, certain elements required by the Uniform Guidance were missing. Recommendation: We recommend that management develop a written procurement policy that conforms with Uniform Guidance. In addition, we recommend that management implement procedures and control processes to retain documentation supporting compliance with major federal program compliance requirements regarding suspension and debarment. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees. See separately issued Corrective Action Plan.
Program: Continuum of Care, Emergency Solutions Grant Program Federal Financial Assistance Listing No.:14.267, 14.231 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through: Sacramento Steps Forward, Sacramento County Department of Human Assistance Award Year: 2022 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Grant Award Number: CA0955L9T032007, CA0955L9T032108, CA0143L9T032013, CA0143L9T032114, CA1303L9T032006, CA1303L9T032107, DHA-PRTS-NM-06-22, DHA-NM-03-22, DHA-NM-03-23, DHA-NM-08-23, DHA-NM-10-23 Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Controls Over Compliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303(a) of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and conditions of the federal award. The nonfederal entity’s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR 200 Appendix II requires certain provisions be included in contracts if criteria are met. As outlined in 2 CFR 180, recipients must not utilize any contractor which is suspended or debarred or is otherwise excluded from the central contractor registry. Condition Found: The Organization’s procurement policy did not include all the required elements as outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Additionally, the Organization did not retain documentation to support the procedures performed to ensure compliance with suspension and debarment requirements. Questioned Costs: No questioned costs were identified as a result of our procedures. Context/ Sampling: Suspension and debarment was applicable to 13 contractors totaling $1,661,410 under the Continuum of Care Program and six contractors totaling $253,310 under the Emergency Solutions Grant Program. We tested all contractors. Repeat Finding from Prior Years: No. Effect: Lack of complete procurement, suspension, and debarment policies and not retaining documentation to support compliance with suspension and debarment requirements could result in noncompliance with Uniform Guidance. Cause: The Organization does not typically receive federal financial assistance that is subject to procurement and suspension and debarment regulations; consequently, certain elements required by the Uniform Guidance were missing. Recommendation: We recommend that management develop a written procurement policy that conforms with Uniform Guidance. In addition, we recommend that management implement procedures and control processes to retain documentation supporting compliance with major federal program compliance requirements regarding suspension and debarment. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees. See separately issued Corrective Action Plan.
Program: Continuum of Care, Emergency Solutions Grant Program Federal Financial Assistance Listing No.:14.267, 14.231 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through: Sacramento Steps Forward, Sacramento County Department of Human Assistance Award Year: 2022 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Grant Award Number: CA0955L9T032007, CA0955L9T032108, CA0143L9T032013, CA0143L9T032114, CA1303L9T032006, CA1303L9T032107, DHA-PRTS-NM-06-22, DHA-NM-03-22, DHA-NM-03-23, DHA-NM-08-23, DHA-NM-10-23 Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Controls Over Compliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303(a) of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and conditions of the federal award. The nonfederal entity’s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR 200 Appendix II requires certain provisions be included in contracts if criteria are met. As outlined in 2 CFR 180, recipients must not utilize any contractor which is suspended or debarred or is otherwise excluded from the central contractor registry. Condition Found: The Organization’s procurement policy did not include all the required elements as outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Additionally, the Organization did not retain documentation to support the procedures performed to ensure compliance with suspension and debarment requirements. Questioned Costs: No questioned costs were identified as a result of our procedures. Context/ Sampling: Suspension and debarment was applicable to 13 contractors totaling $1,661,410 under the Continuum of Care Program and six contractors totaling $253,310 under the Emergency Solutions Grant Program. We tested all contractors. Repeat Finding from Prior Years: No. Effect: Lack of complete procurement, suspension, and debarment policies and not retaining documentation to support compliance with suspension and debarment requirements could result in noncompliance with Uniform Guidance. Cause: The Organization does not typically receive federal financial assistance that is subject to procurement and suspension and debarment regulations; consequently, certain elements required by the Uniform Guidance were missing. Recommendation: We recommend that management develop a written procurement policy that conforms with Uniform Guidance. In addition, we recommend that management implement procedures and control processes to retain documentation supporting compliance with major federal program compliance requirements regarding suspension and debarment. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees. See separately issued Corrective Action Plan.
Program: Continuum of Care, Emergency Solutions Grant Program Federal Financial Assistance Listing No.:14.267, 14.231 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through: Sacramento Steps Forward, Sacramento County Department of Human Assistance Award Year: 2022 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Grant Award Number: CA0955L9T032007, CA0955L9T032108, CA0143L9T032013, CA0143L9T032114, CA1303L9T032006, CA1303L9T032107, DHA-PRTS-NM-06-22, DHA-NM-03-22, DHA-NM-03-23, DHA-NM-08-23, DHA-NM-10-23 Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Controls Over Compliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303(a) of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and conditions of the federal award. The nonfederal entity’s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR 200 Appendix II requires certain provisions be included in contracts if criteria are met. As outlined in 2 CFR 180, recipients must not utilize any contractor which is suspended or debarred or is otherwise excluded from the central contractor registry. Condition Found: The Organization’s procurement policy did not include all the required elements as outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Additionally, the Organization did not retain documentation to support the procedures performed to ensure compliance with suspension and debarment requirements. Questioned Costs: No questioned costs were identified as a result of our procedures. Context/ Sampling: Suspension and debarment was applicable to 13 contractors totaling $1,661,410 under the Continuum of Care Program and six contractors totaling $253,310 under the Emergency Solutions Grant Program. We tested all contractors. Repeat Finding from Prior Years: No. Effect: Lack of complete procurement, suspension, and debarment policies and not retaining documentation to support compliance with suspension and debarment requirements could result in noncompliance with Uniform Guidance. Cause: The Organization does not typically receive federal financial assistance that is subject to procurement and suspension and debarment regulations; consequently, certain elements required by the Uniform Guidance were missing. Recommendation: We recommend that management develop a written procurement policy that conforms with Uniform Guidance. In addition, we recommend that management implement procedures and control processes to retain documentation supporting compliance with major federal program compliance requirements regarding suspension and debarment. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees. See separately issued Corrective Action Plan.
Program: Continuum of Care, Emergency Solutions Grant Program Federal Financial Assistance Listing No.:14.267, 14.231 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through: Sacramento Steps Forward, Sacramento County Department of Human Assistance Award Year: 2022 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Grant Award Number: CA0955L9T032007, CA0955L9T032108, CA0143L9T032013, CA0143L9T032114, CA1303L9T032006, CA1303L9T032107, DHA-PRTS-NM-06-22, DHA-NM-03-22, DHA-NM-03-23, DHA-NM-08-23, DHA-NM-10-23 Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Controls Over Compliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303(a) of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and conditions of the federal award. The nonfederal entity’s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR 200 Appendix II requires certain provisions be included in contracts if criteria are met. As outlined in 2 CFR 180, recipients must not utilize any contractor which is suspended or debarred or is otherwise excluded from the central contractor registry. Condition Found: The Organization’s procurement policy did not include all the required elements as outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Additionally, the Organization did not retain documentation to support the procedures performed to ensure compliance with suspension and debarment requirements. Questioned Costs: No questioned costs were identified as a result of our procedures. Context/ Sampling: Suspension and debarment was applicable to 13 contractors totaling $1,661,410 under the Continuum of Care Program and six contractors totaling $253,310 under the Emergency Solutions Grant Program. We tested all contractors. Repeat Finding from Prior Years: No. Effect: Lack of complete procurement, suspension, and debarment policies and not retaining documentation to support compliance with suspension and debarment requirements could result in noncompliance with Uniform Guidance. Cause: The Organization does not typically receive federal financial assistance that is subject to procurement and suspension and debarment regulations; consequently, certain elements required by the Uniform Guidance were missing. Recommendation: We recommend that management develop a written procurement policy that conforms with Uniform Guidance. In addition, we recommend that management implement procedures and control processes to retain documentation supporting compliance with major federal program compliance requirements regarding suspension and debarment. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees. See separately issued Corrective Action Plan.
Program: Continuum of Care, Emergency Solutions Grant Program Federal Financial Assistance Listing No.:14.267, 14.231 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through: Sacramento Steps Forward, Sacramento County Department of Human Assistance Award Year: 2022 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Grant Award Number: CA0955L9T032007, CA0955L9T032108, CA0143L9T032013, CA0143L9T032114, CA1303L9T032006, CA1303L9T032107, DHA-PRTS-NM-06-22, DHA-NM-03-22, DHA-NM-03-23, DHA-NM-08-23, DHA-NM-10-23 Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Controls Over Compliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303(a) of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and conditions of the federal award. The nonfederal entity’s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR 200 Appendix II requires certain provisions be included in contracts if criteria are met. As outlined in 2 CFR 180, recipients must not utilize any contractor which is suspended or debarred or is otherwise excluded from the central contractor registry. Condition Found: The Organization’s procurement policy did not include all the required elements as outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Additionally, the Organization did not retain documentation to support the procedures performed to ensure compliance with suspension and debarment requirements. Questioned Costs: No questioned costs were identified as a result of our procedures. Context/ Sampling: Suspension and debarment was applicable to 13 contractors totaling $1,661,410 under the Continuum of Care Program and six contractors totaling $253,310 under the Emergency Solutions Grant Program. We tested all contractors. Repeat Finding from Prior Years: No. Effect: Lack of complete procurement, suspension, and debarment policies and not retaining documentation to support compliance with suspension and debarment requirements could result in noncompliance with Uniform Guidance. Cause: The Organization does not typically receive federal financial assistance that is subject to procurement and suspension and debarment regulations; consequently, certain elements required by the Uniform Guidance were missing. Recommendation: We recommend that management develop a written procurement policy that conforms with Uniform Guidance. In addition, we recommend that management implement procedures and control processes to retain documentation supporting compliance with major federal program compliance requirements regarding suspension and debarment. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees. See separately issued Corrective Action Plan.
Program: Continuum of Care, Emergency Solutions Grant Program Federal Financial Assistance Listing No.:14.267, 14.231 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through: Sacramento Steps Forward, Sacramento County Department of Human Assistance Award Year: 2022 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Grant Award Number: CA0955L9T032007, CA0955L9T032108, CA0143L9T032013, CA0143L9T032114, CA1303L9T032006, CA1303L9T032107, DHA-PRTS-NM-06-22, DHA-NM-03-22, DHA-NM-03-23, DHA-NM-08-23, DHA-NM-10-23 Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Controls Over Compliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303(a) of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and conditions of the federal award. The nonfederal entity’s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR 200 Appendix II requires certain provisions be included in contracts if criteria are met. As outlined in 2 CFR 180, recipients must not utilize any contractor which is suspended or debarred or is otherwise excluded from the central contractor registry. Condition Found: The Organization’s procurement policy did not include all the required elements as outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Additionally, the Organization did not retain documentation to support the procedures performed to ensure compliance with suspension and debarment requirements. Questioned Costs: No questioned costs were identified as a result of our procedures. Context/ Sampling: Suspension and debarment was applicable to 13 contractors totaling $1,661,410 under the Continuum of Care Program and six contractors totaling $253,310 under the Emergency Solutions Grant Program. We tested all contractors. Repeat Finding from Prior Years: No. Effect: Lack of complete procurement, suspension, and debarment policies and not retaining documentation to support compliance with suspension and debarment requirements could result in noncompliance with Uniform Guidance. Cause: The Organization does not typically receive federal financial assistance that is subject to procurement and suspension and debarment regulations; consequently, certain elements required by the Uniform Guidance were missing. Recommendation: We recommend that management develop a written procurement policy that conforms with Uniform Guidance. In addition, we recommend that management implement procedures and control processes to retain documentation supporting compliance with major federal program compliance requirements regarding suspension and debarment. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees. See separately issued Corrective Action Plan.
Program: Continuum of Care, Emergency Solutions Grant Program Federal Financial Assistance Listing No.:14.267, 14.231 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through: Sacramento Steps Forward, Sacramento County Department of Human Assistance Award Year: 2022 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Grant Award Number: CA0955L9T032007, CA0955L9T032108, CA0143L9T032013, CA0143L9T032114, CA1303L9T032006, CA1303L9T032107, DHA-PRTS-NM-06-22, DHA-NM-03-22, DHA-NM-03-23, DHA-NM-08-23, DHA-NM-10-23 Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Controls Over Compliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303(a) of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and conditions of the federal award. The nonfederal entity’s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR 200 Appendix II requires certain provisions be included in contracts if criteria are met. As outlined in 2 CFR 180, recipients must not utilize any contractor which is suspended or debarred or is otherwise excluded from the central contractor registry. Condition Found: The Organization’s procurement policy did not include all the required elements as outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Additionally, the Organization did not retain documentation to support the procedures performed to ensure compliance with suspension and debarment requirements. Questioned Costs: No questioned costs were identified as a result of our procedures. Context/ Sampling: Suspension and debarment was applicable to 13 contractors totaling $1,661,410 under the Continuum of Care Program and six contractors totaling $253,310 under the Emergency Solutions Grant Program. We tested all contractors. Repeat Finding from Prior Years: No. Effect: Lack of complete procurement, suspension, and debarment policies and not retaining documentation to support compliance with suspension and debarment requirements could result in noncompliance with Uniform Guidance. Cause: The Organization does not typically receive federal financial assistance that is subject to procurement and suspension and debarment regulations; consequently, certain elements required by the Uniform Guidance were missing. Recommendation: We recommend that management develop a written procurement policy that conforms with Uniform Guidance. In addition, we recommend that management implement procedures and control processes to retain documentation supporting compliance with major federal program compliance requirements regarding suspension and debarment. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees. See separately issued Corrective Action Plan.
Program: Continuum of Care, Emergency Solutions Grant Program Federal Financial Assistance Listing No.:14.267, 14.231 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through: Sacramento Steps Forward, Sacramento County Department of Human Assistance Award Year: 2022 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Grant Award Number: CA0955L9T032007, CA0955L9T032108, CA0143L9T032013, CA0143L9T032114, CA1303L9T032006, CA1303L9T032107, DHA-PRTS-NM-06-22, DHA-NM-03-22, DHA-NM-03-23, DHA-NM-08-23, DHA-NM-10-23 Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Controls Over Compliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303(a) of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and conditions of the federal award. The nonfederal entity’s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR 200 Appendix II requires certain provisions be included in contracts if criteria are met. As outlined in 2 CFR 180, recipients must not utilize any contractor which is suspended or debarred or is otherwise excluded from the central contractor registry. Condition Found: The Organization’s procurement policy did not include all the required elements as outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Additionally, the Organization did not retain documentation to support the procedures performed to ensure compliance with suspension and debarment requirements. Questioned Costs: No questioned costs were identified as a result of our procedures. Context/ Sampling: Suspension and debarment was applicable to 13 contractors totaling $1,661,410 under the Continuum of Care Program and six contractors totaling $253,310 under the Emergency Solutions Grant Program. We tested all contractors. Repeat Finding from Prior Years: No. Effect: Lack of complete procurement, suspension, and debarment policies and not retaining documentation to support compliance with suspension and debarment requirements could result in noncompliance with Uniform Guidance. Cause: The Organization does not typically receive federal financial assistance that is subject to procurement and suspension and debarment regulations; consequently, certain elements required by the Uniform Guidance were missing. Recommendation: We recommend that management develop a written procurement policy that conforms with Uniform Guidance. In addition, we recommend that management implement procedures and control processes to retain documentation supporting compliance with major federal program compliance requirements regarding suspension and debarment. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees. See separately issued Corrective Action Plan.
Program: Continuum of Care, Emergency Solutions Grant Program Federal Financial Assistance Listing No.:14.267, 14.231 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through: Sacramento Steps Forward, Sacramento County Department of Human Assistance Award Year: 2022 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Grant Award Number: CA0955L9T032007, CA0955L9T032108, CA0143L9T032013, CA0143L9T032114, CA1303L9T032006, CA1303L9T032107, DHA-PRTS-NM-06-22, DHA-NM-03-22, DHA-NM-03-23, DHA-NM-08-23, DHA-NM-10-23 Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Controls Over Compliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303(a) of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and conditions of the federal award. The nonfederal entity’s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR 200 Appendix II requires certain provisions be included in contracts if criteria are met. As outlined in 2 CFR 180, recipients must not utilize any contractor which is suspended or debarred or is otherwise excluded from the central contractor registry. Condition Found: The Organization’s procurement policy did not include all the required elements as outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Additionally, the Organization did not retain documentation to support the procedures performed to ensure compliance with suspension and debarment requirements. Questioned Costs: No questioned costs were identified as a result of our procedures. Context/ Sampling: Suspension and debarment was applicable to 13 contractors totaling $1,661,410 under the Continuum of Care Program and six contractors totaling $253,310 under the Emergency Solutions Grant Program. We tested all contractors. Repeat Finding from Prior Years: No. Effect: Lack of complete procurement, suspension, and debarment policies and not retaining documentation to support compliance with suspension and debarment requirements could result in noncompliance with Uniform Guidance. Cause: The Organization does not typically receive federal financial assistance that is subject to procurement and suspension and debarment regulations; consequently, certain elements required by the Uniform Guidance were missing. Recommendation: We recommend that management develop a written procurement policy that conforms with Uniform Guidance. In addition, we recommend that management implement procedures and control processes to retain documentation supporting compliance with major federal program compliance requirements regarding suspension and debarment. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees. See separately issued Corrective Action Plan.
Program: Continuum of Care, Emergency Solutions Grant Program Federal Financial Assistance Listing No.:14.267, 14.231 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through: Sacramento Steps Forward, Sacramento County Department of Human Assistance Award Year: 2022 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Grant Award Number: CA0955L9T032007, CA0955L9T032108, CA0143L9T032013, CA0143L9T032114, CA1303L9T032006, CA1303L9T032107, DHA-PRTS-NM-06-22, DHA-NM-03-22, DHA-NM-03-23, DHA-NM-08-23, DHA-NM-10-23 Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Controls Over Compliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303(a) of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and conditions of the federal award. The nonfederal entity’s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR 200 Appendix II requires certain provisions be included in contracts if criteria are met. As outlined in 2 CFR 180, recipients must not utilize any contractor which is suspended or debarred or is otherwise excluded from the central contractor registry. Condition Found: The Organization’s procurement policy did not include all the required elements as outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Additionally, the Organization did not retain documentation to support the procedures performed to ensure compliance with suspension and debarment requirements. Questioned Costs: No questioned costs were identified as a result of our procedures. Context/ Sampling: Suspension and debarment was applicable to 13 contractors totaling $1,661,410 under the Continuum of Care Program and six contractors totaling $253,310 under the Emergency Solutions Grant Program. We tested all contractors. Repeat Finding from Prior Years: No. Effect: Lack of complete procurement, suspension, and debarment policies and not retaining documentation to support compliance with suspension and debarment requirements could result in noncompliance with Uniform Guidance. Cause: The Organization does not typically receive federal financial assistance that is subject to procurement and suspension and debarment regulations; consequently, certain elements required by the Uniform Guidance were missing. Recommendation: We recommend that management develop a written procurement policy that conforms with Uniform Guidance. In addition, we recommend that management implement procedures and control processes to retain documentation supporting compliance with major federal program compliance requirements regarding suspension and debarment. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees. See separately issued Corrective Action Plan.
FINDING 2022-001 Subject: COVID-19 - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of the Treasury Federal Program: COVID-19 - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Assistance Listings Number: 21.027 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): IN0429, SWIF221472 Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 13CITY OF SCOTTSBURG SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) Condition and Context Procurement - Policy Non-federal entities must follow procurement standards set out in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) in addition to its own documented procurement procedures which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements idented in 2 CFR Part 200. The City did not have its own documented procurement procedures or policies that reflected applicable state laws and regulations or federal statutes for procuring goods and services paid with federal funds. Procurement Small Purchases Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000. However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. Two vendors were identified with total purchases that fell within the small purchase threshold. Price or rate quotes were not obtained, nor was full and open competition provided for either vendor. Additionally, there was no documentation available to support the rationale to limit competition. Simplified Acquisition Threshold When the value of the procurement for property or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT), or a lower threshold established by a non-federal entity, formal procurement methods are required. The SAT is typically set at $250,000; however, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold, and, therefore, the SAT is set at $150,000. Formal procurement methods require adherence to documented procedures and formal methods such as sealed bids or proposals. Under the formal proposal method, the non-federal entity may use competitive proposal procedures for qualifications-based procurement of architectural/engineering (A/E) professional services whereby offeror's qualifications are evaluated, and the most qualified offeror is selected, subject to negotiation of fair and reasonable compensation. The method, where prices are not used as a selection factor, can only be used in procurement of A/E professional services. It cannot be used to purchase other types of services though A/E firms that are a potential source to perform the proposed effort. INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 14CITY OF SCOTTSBURG SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) Five vendors were identified with total purchases that fell within the SAT. One of the five vendors tested, which was for A/E professional services, did not have contract files, including sealed bids or proposals, to document the history of procurement, selection of contract type, or the basis for the contract. Additionally, there was no documentation available to support the rationale to limit competition nor was a cost or price analysis performed in connection with procurement. Conflict of Interest Policy Although conflicts of interest were addressed in the City's Employee Policy and Procedure Manual (manual), the manual did not include standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest nor govern the actions of its employees engaged in selection, award, and administration of contracts supported by federal awards. Suspension and Debarment Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) award funds, recipients are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods and services awarded under a non-procurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the Excluded Parties List System (EPLS), collecting a certification from that person, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. The City did not have any policies or procedures in place related to the SLFRF suspension and debarment requirements. A population of four covered transactions, totaling $1,507,088, that equaled or exceeded $25,000 paid from the SLFRF funds were identified. All four covered transactions were selected for testing. For each of the four transactions, the City did not verify the vendors' suspension or debarment status prior to payment due to the City not having any policies or procedures in place to verify that contractors were neither suspended nor debarred, or otherwise excluded or disqualified, from participating in federal assistance programs or activities. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in 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). . . ." INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 15CITY OF SCOTTSBURG SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) 2 CFR 200.318 states in part: "(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. . . . (c) (1) The non-Federal entity must maintain written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award and administration of contracts. . . . (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. . . ." 2 CFR 200.320 states in part: "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. (a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or services under a Federal award does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT), as defined in ? 200.1, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal procurement methods are not required. The non-Federal entity may use informal procurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize the associated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurement of property or services at or below the SAT include: . . . (2) Small purchases ? (i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . . (b) Formal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or services under a Federal financial assistance award exceeds the SAT, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal procurement methods are required. Formal procurement methods require following documented procedures. Formal procurement methods also require public advertising unless a non-competitive procurement can be used in accordance with ? 200.319 or paragraph (c) of this section. The following formal methods of procurement are used for procurement of property or services above the simplified acquisition threshold or a value below the simplified acquisition threshold the nonFederal entity determines to be appropriate: INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 16CITY OF SCOTTSBURG SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) (1) Sealed bids. A procurement method in which bids are publicly solicited and a firm fixed-price contract (lump sum or unit price) is awarded to the responsible bidder whose bid, conforming with all the material terms and conditions of the invitation for bids, is the lowest in price. The sealed bids method is the preferred method for procuring construction, if the conditions. (i) In order for sealed bidding to be feasible, the following conditions should be present: (A) A complete, adequate, and realistic specification or purchase description is available; (B) Two or more responsible bidders are willing and able to compete effectively for the business; and (C) The procurement lends itself to a firm fixed price contract and the selection of the successful bidder can be made principally on the basis of price. (ii) If sealed bids are used, the following requirements apply: (A) Bids must be solicited from an adequate number of qualified sources, providing them sufficient response time prior to the date set for opening the bids, for local, and tribal governments, the invitation for bids must be publicly advertised; (B) The invitation for bids, which will include any specifications and pertinent attachments, must define the items or services in order for the bidder to properly respond; (C) All bids will be opened at the time and place prescribed in the invitation for bids, and for local and tribal governments, the bids must be opened publicly; (D) A firm fixed price contract award will be made in writing to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. Where specified in bidding documents, factors such as discounts, transportation cost, and life cycle costs must be considered in determining which bid is lowest. Payment discounts will only be used to determine the low bid when prior experience indicates that such discounts are usually taken advantage of; and (E) Any or all bids may be rejected if there is a sound documented reason. (2) Proposals. A procurement method in which either a fixed price or costreimbursement type contract is awarded. Proposals are generally used when conditions are not appropriate for the use of sealed bids. They are awarded in accordance with the following requirements: (i) Requests for proposals must be publicized and identify all evaluation factors and their relative importance. Proposals must be solicited from an adequate number of qualified offerors. Any response to publicized requests for proposals must be considered to the maximum extent practical; (ii) The non-Federal entity must have a written method for conducting technical evaluations of the proposals received and making selections; INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 17CITY OF SCOTTSBURG SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) (iii) Contracts must be awarded to the responsible offeror whose proposal is most advantageous to the non-Federal entity, with price and other factors considered; and (iv) The non-Federal entity may use competitive proposal procedures for qualifications-based procurement of architectural/engineering (A/E) professional services whereby offeror's qualifications are evaluated and the most qualified offeror is selected, subject to negotiation of fair and reasonable compensation. The method, where price is not used as a selection factor, can only be used in procurement of A/E professional services. It cannot be used to purchase other types of services though A/E firms that are a potential source to perform the proposed effort. . . ." 31 CFR 19.300 states: "When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You do this by: (a) Checking the EPLS; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person if allowed by this rule; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person." Cause A proper system of internal controls over procurement and suspension and debarment was not implemented by the management of the City to ensure that goods and services were properly procured and that vendors to whom payment equaled or exceeded $25,000 were not suspended or debarred. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the City's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, property and services were not properly procured and vendors to whom payments equal to or in excess of $25,000 were not verified to be not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the City. Questioned Costs There were no questioned cost identified. Recommendations We recommended that management of the City establish a proper system of internal controls and develop procedures to ensure that property and services are properly procured and that contractors are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into any contracts or subawards. INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 18CITY OF SCOTTSBURG SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) Views of Responsible Officials For the view of the responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2022-001 Subject: COVID-19 - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of the Treasury Federal Program: COVID-19 - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Assistance Listings Number: 21.027 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): IN0429, SWIF221472 Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 13CITY OF SCOTTSBURG SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) Condition and Context Procurement - Policy Non-federal entities must follow procurement standards set out in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) in addition to its own documented procurement procedures which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements idented in 2 CFR Part 200. The City did not have its own documented procurement procedures or policies that reflected applicable state laws and regulations or federal statutes for procuring goods and services paid with federal funds. Procurement Small Purchases Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000. However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. Two vendors were identified with total purchases that fell within the small purchase threshold. Price or rate quotes were not obtained, nor was full and open competition provided for either vendor. Additionally, there was no documentation available to support the rationale to limit competition. Simplified Acquisition Threshold When the value of the procurement for property or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT), or a lower threshold established by a non-federal entity, formal procurement methods are required. The SAT is typically set at $250,000; however, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold, and, therefore, the SAT is set at $150,000. Formal procurement methods require adherence to documented procedures and formal methods such as sealed bids or proposals. Under the formal proposal method, the non-federal entity may use competitive proposal procedures for qualifications-based procurement of architectural/engineering (A/E) professional services whereby offeror's qualifications are evaluated, and the most qualified offeror is selected, subject to negotiation of fair and reasonable compensation. The method, where prices are not used as a selection factor, can only be used in procurement of A/E professional services. It cannot be used to purchase other types of services though A/E firms that are a potential source to perform the proposed effort. INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 14CITY OF SCOTTSBURG SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) Five vendors were identified with total purchases that fell within the SAT. One of the five vendors tested, which was for A/E professional services, did not have contract files, including sealed bids or proposals, to document the history of procurement, selection of contract type, or the basis for the contract. Additionally, there was no documentation available to support the rationale to limit competition nor was a cost or price analysis performed in connection with procurement. Conflict of Interest Policy Although conflicts of interest were addressed in the City's Employee Policy and Procedure Manual (manual), the manual did not include standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest nor govern the actions of its employees engaged in selection, award, and administration of contracts supported by federal awards. Suspension and Debarment Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) award funds, recipients are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods and services awarded under a non-procurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the Excluded Parties List System (EPLS), collecting a certification from that person, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. The City did not have any policies or procedures in place related to the SLFRF suspension and debarment requirements. A population of four covered transactions, totaling $1,507,088, that equaled or exceeded $25,000 paid from the SLFRF funds were identified. All four covered transactions were selected for testing. For each of the four transactions, the City did not verify the vendors' suspension or debarment status prior to payment due to the City not having any policies or procedures in place to verify that contractors were neither suspended nor debarred, or otherwise excluded or disqualified, from participating in federal assistance programs or activities. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in 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). . . ." INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 15CITY OF SCOTTSBURG SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) 2 CFR 200.318 states in part: "(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. . . . (c) (1) The non-Federal entity must maintain written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award and administration of contracts. . . . (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. . . ." 2 CFR 200.320 states in part: "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. (a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or services under a Federal award does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT), as defined in ? 200.1, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal procurement methods are not required. The non-Federal entity may use informal procurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize the associated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurement of property or services at or below the SAT include: . . . (2) Small purchases ? (i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . . (b) Formal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or services under a Federal financial assistance award exceeds the SAT, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal procurement methods are required. Formal procurement methods require following documented procedures. Formal procurement methods also require public advertising unless a non-competitive procurement can be used in accordance with ? 200.319 or paragraph (c) of this section. The following formal methods of procurement are used for procurement of property or services above the simplified acquisition threshold or a value below the simplified acquisition threshold the nonFederal entity determines to be appropriate: INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 16CITY OF SCOTTSBURG SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) (1) Sealed bids. A procurement method in which bids are publicly solicited and a firm fixed-price contract (lump sum or unit price) is awarded to the responsible bidder whose bid, conforming with all the material terms and conditions of the invitation for bids, is the lowest in price. The sealed bids method is the preferred method for procuring construction, if the conditions. (i) In order for sealed bidding to be feasible, the following conditions should be present: (A) A complete, adequate, and realistic specification or purchase description is available; (B) Two or more responsible bidders are willing and able to compete effectively for the business; and (C) The procurement lends itself to a firm fixed price contract and the selection of the successful bidder can be made principally on the basis of price. (ii) If sealed bids are used, the following requirements apply: (A) Bids must be solicited from an adequate number of qualified sources, providing them sufficient response time prior to the date set for opening the bids, for local, and tribal governments, the invitation for bids must be publicly advertised; (B) The invitation for bids, which will include any specifications and pertinent attachments, must define the items or services in order for the bidder to properly respond; (C) All bids will be opened at the time and place prescribed in the invitation for bids, and for local and tribal governments, the bids must be opened publicly; (D) A firm fixed price contract award will be made in writing to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. Where specified in bidding documents, factors such as discounts, transportation cost, and life cycle costs must be considered in determining which bid is lowest. Payment discounts will only be used to determine the low bid when prior experience indicates that such discounts are usually taken advantage of; and (E) Any or all bids may be rejected if there is a sound documented reason. (2) Proposals. A procurement method in which either a fixed price or costreimbursement type contract is awarded. Proposals are generally used when conditions are not appropriate for the use of sealed bids. They are awarded in accordance with the following requirements: (i) Requests for proposals must be publicized and identify all evaluation factors and their relative importance. Proposals must be solicited from an adequate number of qualified offerors. Any response to publicized requests for proposals must be considered to the maximum extent practical; (ii) The non-Federal entity must have a written method for conducting technical evaluations of the proposals received and making selections; INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 17CITY OF SCOTTSBURG SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) (iii) Contracts must be awarded to the responsible offeror whose proposal is most advantageous to the non-Federal entity, with price and other factors considered; and (iv) The non-Federal entity may use competitive proposal procedures for qualifications-based procurement of architectural/engineering (A/E) professional services whereby offeror's qualifications are evaluated and the most qualified offeror is selected, subject to negotiation of fair and reasonable compensation. The method, where price is not used as a selection factor, can only be used in procurement of A/E professional services. It cannot be used to purchase other types of services though A/E firms that are a potential source to perform the proposed effort. . . ." 31 CFR 19.300 states: "When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You do this by: (a) Checking the EPLS; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person if allowed by this rule; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person." Cause A proper system of internal controls over procurement and suspension and debarment was not implemented by the management of the City to ensure that goods and services were properly procured and that vendors to whom payment equaled or exceeded $25,000 were not suspended or debarred. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the City's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, property and services were not properly procured and vendors to whom payments equal to or in excess of $25,000 were not verified to be not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the City. Questioned Costs There were no questioned cost identified. Recommendations We recommended that management of the City establish a proper system of internal controls and develop procedures to ensure that property and services are properly procured and that contractors are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into any contracts or subawards. INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 18CITY OF SCOTTSBURG SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) Views of Responsible Officials For the view of the responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action plan that is part of this report.
Formerly 2021-004: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment: Federal Program: Assistance Listing Nos.: 14.267 Continuum of Care Program & 16.576 Crime Victims Compensation Condition: The Organization was unable to demonstrate controls over the procurement for six items selected for testing. Criteria: The requirements that apply to procurement under grants and cooperative agreements are contained in 2 CFR sections 200.317 through 200.326, program legislation, federal awarding agency regulations, and the terms and conditions of the award. The requirements that apply to procurement under cost-reimbursement contracts under the FAR are contained in 48 CFR parts 03, 15, 44 and the clauses at 48 CFR sections 52.244-2, 52.244-5, 52.203-13, 52.203-16, and 52.215-12; agency FAR Supplements; and the terms and conditions of the contract. Questioned Costs: There were six expenditures where no documentation could be provided to support that the expense took place during grant period resulting in a questioned question cost of $2,699 for 14.267 and $12,739 for 16.567 Effect: The Organization could have expenditures that were paid that did not meet its own procurement policy. Cause: The Organization did not have good controls on ensuring the procurement requirement was meet due to staff turn over and being unable to locate documentation. Recommendation: In order to prevent future occurrences of this deficiency, we recommend that management enhance a set of controls to ensure that they are able to demonstrate that all expenses meet their procurement policy. Perspective: This is a systemic issue in that controls over the requirement have not been developed to enasure the reported information is accurate. Repeat: This is a repeat finding. Responsible Official’s View: The Organization agrees with the finding. See attached corrective action plan.
Formerly 2021-004: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment: Federal Program: Assistance Listing Nos.: 14.267 Continuum of Care Program & 16.576 Crime Victims Compensation Condition: The Organization was unable to demonstrate controls over the procurement for six items selected for testing. Criteria: The requirements that apply to procurement under grants and cooperative agreements are contained in 2 CFR sections 200.317 through 200.326, program legislation, federal awarding agency regulations, and the terms and conditions of the award. The requirements that apply to procurement under cost-reimbursement contracts under the FAR are contained in 48 CFR parts 03, 15, 44 and the clauses at 48 CFR sections 52.244-2, 52.244-5, 52.203-13, 52.203-16, and 52.215-12; agency FAR Supplements; and the terms and conditions of the contract. Questioned Costs: There were six expenditures where no documentation could be provided to support that the expense took place during grant period resulting in a questioned question cost of $2,699 for 14.267 and $12,739 for 16.567 Effect: The Organization could have expenditures that were paid that did not meet its own procurement policy. Cause: The Organization did not have good controls on ensuring the procurement requirement was meet due to staff turn over and being unable to locate documentation. Recommendation: In order to prevent future occurrences of this deficiency, we recommend that management enhance a set of controls to ensure that they are able to demonstrate that all expenses meet their procurement policy. Perspective: This is a systemic issue in that controls over the requirement have not been developed to enasure the reported information is accurate. Repeat: This is a repeat finding. Responsible Official’s View: The Organization agrees with the finding. See attached corrective action plan.
Formerly 2021-004: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment: Federal Program: Assistance Listing Nos.: 14.267 Continuum of Care Program & 16.576 Crime Victims Compensation Condition: The Organization was unable to demonstrate controls over the procurement for six items selected for testing. Criteria: The requirements that apply to procurement under grants and cooperative agreements are contained in 2 CFR sections 200.317 through 200.326, program legislation, federal awarding agency regulations, and the terms and conditions of the award. The requirements that apply to procurement under cost-reimbursement contracts under the FAR are contained in 48 CFR parts 03, 15, 44 and the clauses at 48 CFR sections 52.244-2, 52.244-5, 52.203-13, 52.203-16, and 52.215-12; agency FAR Supplements; and the terms and conditions of the contract. Questioned Costs: There were six expenditures where no documentation could be provided to support that the expense took place during grant period resulting in a questioned question cost of $2,699 for 14.267 and $12,739 for 16.567 Effect: The Organization could have expenditures that were paid that did not meet its own procurement policy. Cause: The Organization did not have good controls on ensuring the procurement requirement was meet due to staff turn over and being unable to locate documentation. Recommendation: In order to prevent future occurrences of this deficiency, we recommend that management enhance a set of controls to ensure that they are able to demonstrate that all expenses meet their procurement policy. Perspective: This is a systemic issue in that controls over the requirement have not been developed to enasure the reported information is accurate. Repeat: This is a repeat finding. Responsible Official’s View: The Organization agrees with the finding. See attached corrective action plan.
Formerly 2021-004: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment: Federal Program: Assistance Listing Nos.: 14.267 Continuum of Care Program & 16.576 Crime Victims Compensation Condition: The Organization was unable to demonstrate controls over the procurement for six items selected for testing. Criteria: The requirements that apply to procurement under grants and cooperative agreements are contained in 2 CFR sections 200.317 through 200.326, program legislation, federal awarding agency regulations, and the terms and conditions of the award. The requirements that apply to procurement under cost-reimbursement contracts under the FAR are contained in 48 CFR parts 03, 15, 44 and the clauses at 48 CFR sections 52.244-2, 52.244-5, 52.203-13, 52.203-16, and 52.215-12; agency FAR Supplements; and the terms and conditions of the contract. Questioned Costs: There were six expenditures where no documentation could be provided to support that the expense took place during grant period resulting in a questioned question cost of $2,699 for 14.267 and $12,739 for 16.567 Effect: The Organization could have expenditures that were paid that did not meet its own procurement policy. Cause: The Organization did not have good controls on ensuring the procurement requirement was meet due to staff turn over and being unable to locate documentation. Recommendation: In order to prevent future occurrences of this deficiency, we recommend that management enhance a set of controls to ensure that they are able to demonstrate that all expenses meet their procurement policy. Perspective: This is a systemic issue in that controls over the requirement have not been developed to enasure the reported information is accurate. Repeat: This is a repeat finding. Responsible Official’s View: The Organization agrees with the finding. See attached corrective action plan.
Formerly 2021-004: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment: Federal Program: Assistance Listing Nos.: 14.267 Continuum of Care Program & 16.576 Crime Victims Compensation Condition: The Organization was unable to demonstrate controls over the procurement for six items selected for testing. Criteria: The requirements that apply to procurement under grants and cooperative agreements are contained in 2 CFR sections 200.317 through 200.326, program legislation, federal awarding agency regulations, and the terms and conditions of the award. The requirements that apply to procurement under cost-reimbursement contracts under the FAR are contained in 48 CFR parts 03, 15, 44 and the clauses at 48 CFR sections 52.244-2, 52.244-5, 52.203-13, 52.203-16, and 52.215-12; agency FAR Supplements; and the terms and conditions of the contract. Questioned Costs: There were six expenditures where no documentation could be provided to support that the expense took place during grant period resulting in a questioned question cost of $2,699 for 14.267 and $12,739 for 16.567 Effect: The Organization could have expenditures that were paid that did not meet its own procurement policy. Cause: The Organization did not have good controls on ensuring the procurement requirement was meet due to staff turn over and being unable to locate documentation. Recommendation: In order to prevent future occurrences of this deficiency, we recommend that management enhance a set of controls to ensure that they are able to demonstrate that all expenses meet their procurement policy. Perspective: This is a systemic issue in that controls over the requirement have not been developed to enasure the reported information is accurate. Repeat: This is a repeat finding. Responsible Official’s View: The Organization agrees with the finding. See attached corrective action plan.
Formerly 2021-004: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment: Federal Program: Assistance Listing Nos.: 14.267 Continuum of Care Program & 16.576 Crime Victims Compensation Condition: The Organization was unable to demonstrate controls over the procurement for six items selected for testing. Criteria: The requirements that apply to procurement under grants and cooperative agreements are contained in 2 CFR sections 200.317 through 200.326, program legislation, federal awarding agency regulations, and the terms and conditions of the award. The requirements that apply to procurement under cost-reimbursement contracts under the FAR are contained in 48 CFR parts 03, 15, 44 and the clauses at 48 CFR sections 52.244-2, 52.244-5, 52.203-13, 52.203-16, and 52.215-12; agency FAR Supplements; and the terms and conditions of the contract. Questioned Costs: There were six expenditures where no documentation could be provided to support that the expense took place during grant period resulting in a questioned question cost of $2,699 for 14.267 and $12,739 for 16.567 Effect: The Organization could have expenditures that were paid that did not meet its own procurement policy. Cause: The Organization did not have good controls on ensuring the procurement requirement was meet due to staff turn over and being unable to locate documentation. Recommendation: In order to prevent future occurrences of this deficiency, we recommend that management enhance a set of controls to ensure that they are able to demonstrate that all expenses meet their procurement policy. Perspective: This is a systemic issue in that controls over the requirement have not been developed to enasure the reported information is accurate. Repeat: This is a repeat finding. Responsible Official’s View: The Organization agrees with the finding. See attached corrective action plan.
Criteria: The Corporation must maintain and adhere to documented procurement procedures that must conform to the procurement standards in 2 CFR Sections 200.317 through 200.327. These sections include policies and procedures related to competition, informal and formal procurement methods and noncompetitive procurement. Additionally, in accordance with 2 CFR Section 200.214, the Corporation must verify that vendors are not suspended or debarred from participating in Federal funds. Condition: We noted that there was a lack of evidence that policies and procedures were applied as required under the noted 2 CFR Sections in “Criteria”. Cause: The Corporation did not maintain formal documentation or evidence to support that a competitive price analysis for vendors or that suspension and debarment verifications were performed for vendors, as required by the general procurement standards of the Uniform Guidance. Effect or Potential Effect: We were unable to determine whether charges relating to vendor services or goods charged to the Federal programs are in accordance with 2 CFR Sections 200.317 through 200.327 or 200.214. Questioned costs: None Context: The Corporation was unable to provide evidence of procurement, suspension or debarment verification performed for walkthrough purposes or any samples that would be selected. Additionally, per management, no written documentation can be provided for any sole source procurements. Repeat finding: This is a repeat finding from prior year. This was reported as finding 2021-010 in the 2021 report. Recommendation: We recommend the Corporation establish formal internal controls, and documentation of their performance, relating procurement, required price analysis of vendors, and suspension and debarment verifications. View of Responsible Officials: Due to turnover of several key financial executives and personnel and lack of formal documentation of current policies and procedures, the Corporation was unable to provide evidence of procurement, suspension or debarment verification performed as of December 31, 2022.
Criteria: The Corporation must maintain and adhere to documented procurement procedures that must conform to the procurement standards in 2 CFR Sections 200.317 through 200.327. These sections include policies and procedures related to competition, informal and formal procurement methods and noncompetitive procurement. Additionally, in accordance with 2 CFR Section 200.214, the Corporation must verify that vendors are not suspended or debarred from participating in Federal funds. Condition: We noted that there was a lack of evidence that policies and procedures were applied as required under the noted 2 CFR Sections in “Criteria”. Cause: The Corporation did not maintain formal documentation or evidence to support that a competitive price analysis for vendors or that suspension and debarment verifications were performed for vendors, as required by the general procurement standards of the Uniform Guidance. Effect or Potential Effect: We were unable to determine whether charges relating to vendor services or goods charged to the Federal programs are in accordance with 2 CFR Sections 200.317 through 200.327 or 200.214. Questioned costs: None Context: The Corporation was unable to provide evidence of procurement, suspension or debarment verification performed for walkthrough purposes or any samples that would be selected. Additionally, per management, no written documentation can be provided for any sole source procurements. Repeat finding: This is a repeat finding from prior year. This was reported as finding 2021-010 in the 2021 report. Recommendation: We recommend the Corporation establish formal internal controls, and documentation of their performance, relating procurement, required price analysis of vendors, and suspension and debarment verifications. View of Responsible Officials: Due to turnover of several key financial executives and personnel and lack of formal documentation of current policies and procedures, the Corporation was unable to provide evidence of procurement, suspension or debarment verification performed as of December 31, 2022.
Criteria: The Corporation must maintain and adhere to documented procurement procedures that must conform to the procurement standards in 2 CFR Sections 200.317 through 200.327. These sections include policies and procedures related to competition, informal and formal procurement methods and noncompetitive procurement. Additionally, in accordance with 2 CFR Section 200.214, the Corporation must verify that vendors are not suspended or debarred from participating in Federal funds. Condition: We noted that there was a lack of evidence that policies and procedures were applied as required under the noted 2 CFR Sections in “Criteria”. Cause: The Corporation did not maintain formal documentation or evidence to support that a competitive price analysis for vendors or that suspension and debarment verifications were performed for vendors, as required by the general procurement standards of the Uniform Guidance. Effect or Potential Effect: We were unable to determine whether charges relating to vendor services or goods charged to the Federal programs are in accordance with 2 CFR Sections 200.317 through 200.327 or 200.214. Questioned costs: None Context: The Corporation was unable to provide evidence of procurement, suspension or debarment verification performed for walkthrough purposes or any samples that would be selected. Additionally, per management, no written documentation can be provided for any sole source procurements. Repeat finding: This is a repeat finding from prior year. This was reported as finding 2021-010 in the 2021 report. Recommendation: We recommend the Corporation establish formal internal controls, and documentation of their performance, relating procurement, required price analysis of vendors, and suspension and debarment verifications. View of Responsible Officials: Due to turnover of several key financial executives and personnel and lack of formal documentation of current policies and procedures, the Corporation was unable to provide evidence of procurement, suspension or debarment verification performed as of December 31, 2022.
Finding 2022-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2021-005. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds. Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024 Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2022-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2021-005. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds. Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024 Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2022-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2021-005. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds. Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024 Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2022-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2021-005. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds. Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024 Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2022-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2021-005. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds. Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024 Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2022-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2021-005. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds. Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024 Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2022-005: Procurement Federal Programs: Research and Development Cluster: All Grants Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Procedures articulated in 2 CFR 200.317-326, requires that for all procurement of goods and services, some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement files in connection with every procurement action based on the dollar thresholds sited in the compliance code. Condition: AAPT did not consistently adhere to written policies with respect to the procurement process, as bids/quotes were not obtainable or the conclusion for selection was not documented. Cause: AAPT’s internal policies and procedures governing procurement were not consistently applied. Effect or Potential Effect: Without proper and complete procurement documentation, there is a risk that AAPT will not perform proper evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: Our audit procedures consisted of internal control testwork over the cash disbursement cycle over a sample population of expenditures. We consider our sample to be representative of the population. The condition appeared to be systematic in nature. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: 2021-005. Recommendation: We recommend that all procurement records for purchases in excess of the purchase threshold include the following, at a minimum: (a) basis for contractor/goods selection or (b) justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained. Additionally, the conclusion should be clearly documented and accompanying the procurement documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will update current policies and procedures and review and enforce the polices. Management will be responsible for proper documentation and confirmation that all policies and procedures are followed. Management will confirm that all agreements, mou’s and contracts are property, reviewed signed and documented. Management will require all departments to document all procurements for goods and services with written cost and price analysis based on AAPT's dollar thresholds. Anticipated Completion Date: 04/15/2024 Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO