Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement and Suspension and DebarmentFederal Agency: Department of AgricultureFederal Programs: School Breakfast Program, COVID-19 - School Breakfast Program, National SchoolLunch Program, COVID-19 - National School Lunch Program, Summer FoodService Program, COVID-19 - Summer Food Service Program for ChildrenAssistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY21, FY22Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of EducationCompliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and DebarmentAudit Findings: Material Weakness, Other MattersRepeat FindingThis is a repeat finding for suspension and debarment from the immediately prior report. The prioraudit finding number was 2020-004.INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS23BLACKFORD COUNTY SCHOOLSSCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS(Continued)Condition and ContextAn effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensurecompliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension andDebarment compliance requirement.Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement forproperty or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at $250,000.However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchaseprocedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. Theinformal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for thosepurchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchasethreshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awardedwithout soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price orrate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources.The School Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for six vendors tested that were lessthan the simplified acquisition threshold of $150,000 but exceeded the $10,000 micro-purchase threshold.The micro-purchase threshold may be increased, but the School Corporation did not provide documentationthat the threshold had been increased.The School Corporation engaged with an Education Service Center that was not an approvedSchool Food Authority (SFA) cooperative. Since the Education Service Center failed to meet therequirements to be an approved SFA cooperative, the obligation reverted to the School Corporation. TheSchool Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for purchases of milk, exceeding $10,000 from anadequate number of sources, which fell under the small purchase procedures. In addition, the SchoolCorporation did not verify the milk vendor with a contract over $25,000 was not excluded or disqualifiedfrom participation in federal award programs.The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.Criteria2 CFR 200.303 states in part:"The non-Federal entity must:(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that providesreasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award incompliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federalaward. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards forInternal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of theUnited States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee ofSponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."2 CFR 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 themethod of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and thebasis for the contract price."INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS24BLACKFORD COUNTY SCHOOLSSCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS(Continued)2 CFR 200.320(b) (Uniform Guidance) states:"Procurement by small purchase procedures. Small purchase procedures are those relativelysimple and informal procurement methods for securing services, supplies, or other propertythat do not cost more than the Simplified Acquisition Threshold. If small purchase proceduresare used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualifiedsources."2 CFR 200.320 (Revised Uniform Guidance) states in part:"The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent withthe standards of this section and ?? 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the followingmethods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under aFederal award or sub-award.(a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property orservices 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 informalprocurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize theassociated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurementof property or services at or below the SAT include: . . .(2) Small purchases ?(i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, theaggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold butdoes not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase proceduresare used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number ofqualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ."Indiana Code 5-22-8-3 states:"(a) This section applies only if the purchasing agent expects the purchase to be:(1) at least fifty thousand dollars ($50,000); and(2) not more than one hundred fifty thousand dollars ($150,000). . . ."CauseManagement had not established a system of internal controls that would have ensured compliancewith the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement.EffectThe failure to establish an effective system of internal controls enabled noncompliance to go undetected.Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension and Debarmentcompliance requirement could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS25BLACKFORD COUNTY SCHOOLSSCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS(Continued)Questioned CostsThere were no questioned costs identified.RecommendationWe recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal controlsto ensure compliance and comply with the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension andDebarment compliance requirement.Views of Responsible OfficialsFor the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement and Suspension and DebarmentFederal Agency: Department of AgricultureFederal Programs: School Breakfast Program, COVID-19 - School Breakfast Program, National SchoolLunch Program, COVID-19 - National School Lunch Program, Summer FoodService Program, COVID-19 - Summer Food Service Program for ChildrenAssistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY21, FY22Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of EducationCompliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and DebarmentAudit Findings: Material Weakness, Other MattersRepeat FindingThis is a repeat finding for suspension and debarment from the immediately prior report. The prioraudit finding number was 2020-004.INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS23BLACKFORD COUNTY SCHOOLSSCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS(Continued)Condition and ContextAn effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensurecompliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension andDebarment compliance requirement.Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement forproperty or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at $250,000.However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchaseprocedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. Theinformal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for thosepurchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchasethreshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awardedwithout soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price orrate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources.The School Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for six vendors tested that were lessthan the simplified acquisition threshold of $150,000 but exceeded the $10,000 micro-purchase threshold.The micro-purchase threshold may be increased, but the School Corporation did not provide documentationthat the threshold had been increased.The School Corporation engaged with an Education Service Center that was not an approvedSchool Food Authority (SFA) cooperative. Since the Education Service Center failed to meet therequirements to be an approved SFA cooperative, the obligation reverted to the School Corporation. TheSchool Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for purchases of milk, exceeding $10,000 from anadequate number of sources, which fell under the small purchase procedures. In addition, the SchoolCorporation did not verify the milk vendor with a contract over $25,000 was not excluded or disqualifiedfrom participation in federal award programs.The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.Criteria2 CFR 200.303 states in part:"The non-Federal entity must:(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that providesreasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award incompliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federalaward. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards forInternal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of theUnited States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee ofSponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."2 CFR 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 themethod of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and thebasis for the contract price."INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS24BLACKFORD COUNTY SCHOOLSSCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS(Continued)2 CFR 200.320(b) (Uniform Guidance) states:"Procurement by small purchase procedures. Small purchase procedures are those relativelysimple and informal procurement methods for securing services, supplies, or other propertythat do not cost more than the Simplified Acquisition Threshold. If small purchase proceduresare used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualifiedsources."2 CFR 200.320 (Revised Uniform Guidance) states in part:"The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent withthe standards of this section and ?? 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the followingmethods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under aFederal award or sub-award.(a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property orservices 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 informalprocurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize theassociated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurementof property or services at or below the SAT include: . . .(2) Small purchases ?(i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, theaggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold butdoes not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase proceduresare used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number ofqualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ."Indiana Code 5-22-8-3 states:"(a) This section applies only if the purchasing agent expects the purchase to be:(1) at least fifty thousand dollars ($50,000); and(2) not more than one hundred fifty thousand dollars ($150,000). . . ."CauseManagement had not established a system of internal controls that would have ensured compliancewith the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement.EffectThe failure to establish an effective system of internal controls enabled noncompliance to go undetected.Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension and Debarmentcompliance requirement could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS25BLACKFORD COUNTY SCHOOLSSCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS(Continued)Questioned CostsThere were no questioned costs identified.RecommendationWe recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal controlsto ensure compliance and comply with the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension andDebarment compliance requirement.Views of Responsible OfficialsFor the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement and Suspension and DebarmentFederal Agency: Department of AgricultureFederal Programs: School Breakfast Program, COVID-19 - School Breakfast Program, National SchoolLunch Program, COVID-19 - National School Lunch Program, Summer FoodService Program, COVID-19 - Summer Food Service Program for ChildrenAssistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY21, FY22Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of EducationCompliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and DebarmentAudit Findings: Material Weakness, Other MattersRepeat FindingThis is a repeat finding for suspension and debarment from the immediately prior report. The prioraudit finding number was 2020-004.INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS23BLACKFORD COUNTY SCHOOLSSCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS(Continued)Condition and ContextAn effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensurecompliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension andDebarment compliance requirement.Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement forproperty or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at $250,000.However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchaseprocedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. Theinformal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for thosepurchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchasethreshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awardedwithout soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price orrate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources.The School Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for six vendors tested that were lessthan the simplified acquisition threshold of $150,000 but exceeded the $10,000 micro-purchase threshold.The micro-purchase threshold may be increased, but the School Corporation did not provide documentationthat the threshold had been increased.The School Corporation engaged with an Education Service Center that was not an approvedSchool Food Authority (SFA) cooperative. Since the Education Service Center failed to meet therequirements to be an approved SFA cooperative, the obligation reverted to the School Corporation. TheSchool Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes for purchases of milk, exceeding $10,000 from anadequate number of sources, which fell under the small purchase procedures. In addition, the SchoolCorporation did not verify the milk vendor with a contract over $25,000 was not excluded or disqualifiedfrom participation in federal award programs.The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period.Criteria2 CFR 200.303 states in part:"The non-Federal entity must:(a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that providesreasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award incompliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federalaward. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards forInternal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of theUnited States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee ofSponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ."2 CFR 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 themethod of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and thebasis for the contract price."INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS24BLACKFORD COUNTY SCHOOLSSCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS(Continued)2 CFR 200.320(b) (Uniform Guidance) states:"Procurement by small purchase procedures. Small purchase procedures are those relativelysimple and informal procurement methods for securing services, supplies, or other propertythat do not cost more than the Simplified Acquisition Threshold. If small purchase proceduresare used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualifiedsources."2 CFR 200.320 (Revised Uniform Guidance) states in part:"The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent withthe standards of this section and ?? 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the followingmethods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under aFederal award or sub-award.(a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property orservices 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 informalprocurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize theassociated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurementof property or services at or below the SAT include: . . .(2) Small purchases ?(i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, theaggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold butdoes not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase proceduresare used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number ofqualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ."Indiana Code 5-22-8-3 states:"(a) This section applies only if the purchasing agent expects the purchase to be:(1) at least fifty thousand dollars ($50,000); and(2) not more than one hundred fifty thousand dollars ($150,000). . . ."CauseManagement had not established a system of internal controls that would have ensured compliancewith the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement.EffectThe failure to establish an effective system of internal controls enabled noncompliance to go undetected.Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension and Debarmentcompliance requirement could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation.INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS25BLACKFORD COUNTY SCHOOLSSCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS(Continued)Questioned CostsThere were no questioned costs identified.RecommendationWe recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal controlsto ensure compliance and comply with the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension andDebarment compliance requirement.Views of Responsible OfficialsFor the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
Criteria: Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) 200.318 General Procurement Standards requires entities to have documented procurement procedures that conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. Condition: The City does not have formal documented procurement policies and procedures related to expenditures of federal awards. Cause: The City Council forms a committee to review and approve disbursements of federal funds. This process is the City’s general practice but does not follow written procurement policies and procedures. Effect: The City is out of compliance with general procurement standards under 2 CFR 200.318. Recommendation: The City should adopt formal documented procurement policies and procedures related to expenditures of federal awards. Response: The City Clerk and Mayor, with help from the Treasurer, will develop and implement documented procurement procedures that conform to the procurement standards relating to Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) 200.317 through 200.327.
Criteria: Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) 200.318 General Procurement Standards requires entities to have documented procurement procedures that conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. Condition: The City does not have formal documented procurement policies and procedures related to expenditures of federal awards. Cause: The City Council forms a committee to review and approve disbursements of federal funds. This process is the City’s general practice but does not follow written procurement policies and procedures. Effect: The City is out of compliance with general procurement standards under 2 CFR 200.318. Recommendation: The City should adopt formal documented procurement policies and procedures related to expenditures of federal awards. Response: The City Clerk and Mayor, with help from the Treasurer, will develop and implement documented procurement procedures that conform to the procurement standards relating to Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) 200.317 through 200.327.
Criteria: Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) 200.318 General Procurement Standards requires entities to have documented procurement procedures that conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. Condition: The City does not have formal documented procurement policies and procedures related to expenditures of federal awards. Cause: The City Council forms a committee to review and approve disbursements of federal funds. This process is the City’s general practice but does not follow written procurement policies and procedures. Effect: The City is out of compliance with general procurement standards under 2 CFR 200.318. Recommendation: The City should adopt formal documented procurement policies and procedures related to expenditures of federal awards. Response: The City Clerk and Mayor, with help from the Treasurer, will develop and implement documented procurement procedures that conform to the procurement standards relating to Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) 200.317 through 200.327.
2022-003 Procurement Policies and Covered Transactions Compliance Requirement Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment Category Significant Deficiency in Internal Control and Noncompliance Federal Agency U.S. Department of the Treasury Pass-Through Entity Puerto Rico Fiscal Agency and Financial Advisory Authority ALN 21.027 Federal Program COVID-19 - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Criteria 2 CFR section 200.318 General procurement standards. (a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR section 180.220 Are any procurement contracts included as covered transactions? (a) Covered transactions under this part— (1) Do not include any procurement contracts awarded directly by a Federal agency; but (2) Do include some procurement contracts awarded by non-Federal participants in nonprocurement covered transactions. (b) Specifically, a contract for goods or services is a covered transaction if any of the following applies: (1) The contract is awarded by a participant in a nonprocurement transaction that is covered under § 180.210, and the amount of the contract is expected to equal or exceed $25,000. (2) The contract requires the consent of an official of a Federal agency. In that case, the contract, regardless of the amount, always is a covered transaction, and it does not matter who awarded it. For example, it could be a subcontract awarded by a contractor at a tier below a nonprocurement transaction, as shown in the appendix to this part. (3) The contract is for Federally-required audit services. (c) A subcontract also is a covered transaction if,— (1) It is awarded by a participant in a procurement transaction under a nonprocurement transaction of a Federal agency that extends the coverage of paragraph (b)(1) of this section to additional tiers of contracts (see the diagram in the appendix to this part showing that optional lower tier coverage); and (2) The value of the subcontract is expected to equal or exceed $25,000. Condition General Procurement Standards - Written Policies The Corporation has an outdated institutional procurement manual approved in 2014 that lacks written policies to ascertain compliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, or the terms and conditions of federal awards regarding procurement, suspension, and debarment requirements. Suspension and Debarment - Covered Transaction From a population of nineteen disbursements, we selected nine disbursements to ascertain compliance with 2 CFR section 180.220 by examining the procurement documents provided by the Corporation. From that sample, we identified nine instances in which the SAM.gov registration verification process was not performed. Of the nine instances, we found eight suppliers properly registered, but one supplier appears as validated as unique and existing but not registered in SAM.gov. Cause Lack of understanding of procurement compliance requirements for federal awards. Fiscal year 2023 was the first year for the Corporation to be subjected to a single audit compliance requirement for receiving and expending COVID-19 public health emergency programs. Effect Noncompliance with sections 200.318 and 180.220 of 2 CFR may lead to temporary withholding of cash payments until the deficiency is corrected, and/or withholding further federal program awards. Questioned Costs None Recommendation General Procurement Standards - Written Policies and Suspension and Debarment - Covered Transaction We recommend the Corporation update its internal procurement written policies following the provisions of current state statutes and regulations and develop separate procurement written policies following the provisions of federal laws and regulations or the terms and conditions of federal awards, which includes the Procurement Standards described in 2 CFR section 200.317 through 200.327, as applicable. By updating, developing, and implementing the required written procurement policies, the Corporation will be able to comply with the federal government compliance requirements. Views of responsible officials Refer to Corrective Action Plan section.
Material Instance of Non-Compliance and Significant Deficiency Written Procurement Policy This finding impacts the procurement and suspension and debarment compliance requirement for the major program, Assistance Listing Number 10.555, Child Nutrition Cluster, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and passed through by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Criteria: The School must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.317 through 200.327. The School also 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. Condition: During our compliance testing, we reviewed the School's procurement policy against Uniform Guidance standards. The policy did not meet all of the considerations that are required through Uniform Guidance, Federal and state regulations. The School followed their procurement policy during fiscal year 2022, but should update this policy in accordance with these regulations. Cause: The School’s existing procurement policy did not document all of the elements required by the Uniform Guidance. Effect: Non-compliance with the Uniform Guidance, potentially resulting in an increase in questioned costs. Was the finding a repeat of a finding in the immediately prior year?: No Recommendation: AAFCPAs recommends that management revise their policy to comply with current standards under the Uniform Guidance. Management Response: During the audit, it was recognized that the School did not have an updated procurement policy to comply with the current standards under the Uniform Guidance. This is the first year that the School received funds that exceeded the Uniform Guidance threshold and was not aware that there was a difference between Federal policy and state policy that we operated under. During the audit, it was recognized that the School had obtained appropriate bids and performed an adequate and documented comparison of qualifications amongst vendors before selecting the current vendor. These practices, which are outlined in the Uniform Guidance Standard, although followed, are not accurately reflected in our current procurement policy. This policy will be updated during fiscal year 2023.
Finding 2022-011 - Noncompliance Over Procurement and Suspension and Debarment – Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds PASS THROUGH GRANTOR: Direct Grant FEDERAL AGENCY: U.S. Department of Treasury ASSISTANCE LISTING: 21.027 FEDERAL PROGRAM NAME: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) FEDERAL AWARD NUMBER: SLFRP3720 FEDERAL AWARD YEAR: 2022 CONTROL CATEGORY: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment QUESTIONED COSTS: $203,000 Condition: During our review of the disbursement data from Muskogee County regarding procurement and suspension and debarment as per the Uniform Guidance 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327, we identified the following: • One (1) ambulance was purchased in the amount of $203,000 for the Muskogee County EMS. There were no bids or quotes provide by the County or found in the BOCC meeting minutes supporting expenditure documentation. • There were six (6) vendors, in which the County did not check the www.SAM.gov website to review if the vendor had been suspended or debarred for those disbursements that warranted a bid, on the 6-month bid list, or received quotes. Cause of Condition: Policies and procedures have not been designed and implemented to ensure compliance of expenditures for all federal awards. Effect of Condition: This condition resulted in noncompliance to grant requirements and could lead to a loss of federal funds to the County. Recommendation: OSAI recommends county officials and department heads gain an understanding of federal programs awarded to Muskogee County. Internal control procedures should be designed and implemented to ensure accurate procurement and suspension and debarment and to ensure compliance with federal requirements. Management Response: Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners: Muskogee County has hired an internal grant administrator to assist in keeping the county compliant with all local, state, and federal requirements. Efforts will be made going forward to ensure that all grant funds are properly expended. This includes that all expenditures are properly documented and that all vendors are federally eligible to perform services. Criteria: 2 CFR § 200.317 through 200.327 General Procurement Standards reads as follows: When procuring property and services under a Federal award, a State must follow the same policies and procedures it uses for procurements from its non-Federal funds. The State will comply with §§ 200.321, 200.322, and 200.323 and ensure that every purchase order or other contract includes any clauses required by § 200.327. All other non-Federal entities, including subrecipients of a State, must follow the procurement standards in §§ 200.318 through 200.327. 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. (b) Non-Federal entities must maintain oversight to ensure that contractors perform in accordance with the terms, conditions, and specifications of their contracts or purchase orders. 2 CFR 180.700 – 180.760 Suspension and 2 CFR 180.800 – 180.885 Debarment 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.
Condition: During the test of 100% of expenditures, two (2) expenditures totaling $570,080, for the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds, the following noncompliance with the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement was noted: • The County failed to properly document the expenditure for one (1) of the two (2) federal expenditures totaling $500,000. They did not execute a contract or award documents, and the invoice was not itemized. This expenditure had a questioned cost of $500,000. Cause of Condition: Policies and procedures have not been designed and implemented to ensure federal expenditures are made in accordance with federal compliance requirements. Effect of Condition: This condition resulted in noncompliance with federal grant requirements and could result in a loss of federal funds. Recommendation: OSAI recommends the County gain an understanding of the requirements for this program and implement internal controls to ensure compliance with these requirements. Management Response: Board of County Commissioners: The Board of County Commissioners is responsible for the overall fiscal concerns of the county. See OKLA. STAT. Title 19, § 345. The Board of County Commissioners, with the cooperation and participation of all elected officials, reviews, develops and implements policies and procedures to create a strong internal control environment. The Board of County Commissioners will work with all elected officials, the third-party administrator, and federal, state and local partners to develop policies, procedures, and internal controls designed to accurately track grants, including the application process, verification, oversight, and reporting of grant requirements. These policies and procedures will be designed to identify requirements for recipients and sub-recipients of grants, ensure accurate equipment and real property management, procurement, recipient and subrecipient monitoring and reporting. Further, policies will ensure a proper understanding of all grant requirements and compliance of the same. To assist in this process, the Board of County Commissioners engaged a third-party administrator to oversee the grant process, including application, eligibility, review, requirements, contracting, recipient tracking and oversight, and documentation and reporting. The Board of County Commissioners will work with the third-party administrator to ensure proper grant administration. Criteria: 2 CFR § 200.303(a) Internal Controls reads as follows: The non-Federal entity must: Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). 2 CFR § 200.320 Internal Controls reads as follows: There are three types of procurement methods described in this section: informal procurement methods (for micro-purchases and simplified acquisitions); formal procurement methods (through sealed bids or proposals); and noncompetitive procurement methods. For any of these methods, the recipient or subrecipient must maintain and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319.
Condition: Upon inquiry of county personnel and a test of twenty (20) disbursement totaling $303,873, the following instances of noncompliance were noted: • The County failed to document suspension and debarment of vendors for purchases over $25,000. • The County failed to have written standards of conduct that cover conflicts of interest and that govern the performance of its employees engaged in the selection, award, and administration of contract. Cause of Condition: Policies and procedures have not been designed and implemented to ensure federal disbursements are made in accordance with federal compliance requirements. Effect of Condition: This condition resulted in noncompliance with grant requirements and could result in a loss of federal funds. Recommendation: OSAI recommends the County gain an understanding of the grant requirements for this program and implement internal controls to ensure compliance with these grant requirements. Management Response: Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners: These procurement issues originated during the prior County Clerk’s administration, but the current leadership is focused on corrective measures. Together, we are: • developing a SOP to ensure vendor checks for suspension and debarment are conducted on all purchases over $25,000, • establishing written standards of conduct to address conflicts of interest and set clear procurement guidelines, • and enhancing oversight and review to ensure all procurement processes are fully compliant with federal regulations. Our goal is to build a consistent, transparent procurement framework that safeguards both compliance and public trust. County Clerk: I was not the County Clerk in office at this time. To correct this issue, the County plans to develop a SOP to timely and accurately track and report on the SEFA. The SOP will be reviewed, adopted, and monitored by the Board of County Commissioners. Criteria: Compliance and Reporting Guidance, State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (8. Procurement, Suspension & Debarment.) reads as follows: Recipients are responsible for ensuring that any procurement using SLFRF funds, or payments under procurement contracts using such funds, are consistent with the procurement standards set forth in the Uniform Guidance at 2 CFR 200.317 through 2 CFR 200.327, unless stated otherwise by Treasury. As outlined in FAQ 13.15, only a subset of the Uniform Guidance requirements at 2 CFR Part 200 Subpart D (Post Federal Award Requirements) applies to recipients’ use of funds in the revenue loss eligible use category. The procurement standards set forth in the Uniform Guidance at 2 CRF 200.317 through 2 CRF 200.327 are not included in FAQ 13.15’s list of applicable Subpart D requirements that apply to recipients’ use of funds in the revenue loss eligible use category. The Uniform Guidance establishes in 2 CFR 200.319 that all procurement transactions for property or services must be conducted in a manner providing full and open competition, consistent with standards outlined in 2 CFR 200.320, which allows for non-competitive procurements only in certain circumstances. Recipients must have and use documented procurement procedures that are consistent with the standards outlined in 2 CFR 200.317 through 2 CFR 200.320. In addition, the Uniform Guidance at 2 CFR 200.214, 2 CFR Part 180, and Treasury’s implementing regulations at 31 CFR Part 19, prohibit recipients from entering into contracts with suspended or debarred parties. The procurement standards outlined in the Uniform Guidance require an infrastructure for competitive bidding and contractor oversight, including maintaining written standards of conduct. Your organization must ensure adherence to all applicable local, State, and federal procurement laws and regulations. Further, 2 CFR § 200.319 Competition (d) reads as follows: The non-Federal entity must have written procedures for procurement transactions.
Federal Agency: Department of the Interior Federal Programs: Assistance to Tribally Controlled Community Colleges and Universities Assistance Listing Numbers: 15.027 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: A19AP00118-09 Award Period: July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Other Matters Criteria: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.326 there are procurement standards within the Uniform Guidance. These standards include elements that should be followed pre-contract. Specifically, UG §200.318 states that the non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Condition: The College did not have proper documentation to support one procurement transaction. Questioned Costs: None. Context: During our testing of 8 procurement transactions, it was noted the College did not retain proper documentation related to 1 procurement transaction. Cause: The College did not retain proper documentation of one procurement transaction. Effect: The College was not in compliance with procurement regulations. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: We recommend the College implement policies and procedures to ensure all procurement documentation is complete and retained. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a plan to correct the finding.
Finding 2022-009 – Lack of Internal Controls Over the SEFA and Noncompliance with Compliance Requirements Over Major Federal Programs – FEMA (Repeat Finding – 2018-006, 2020-008) PASS-THROUGH GRANTOR: Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management FEDERAL AGENCY: U.S. Department of Homeland Security ASSISTANCE LISTING: 97.036 FEDERAL PROGRAM NAME: Disaster Grants – Public Assistance (Presidentially Declared Disasters) FEDERAL AWARD NUMBER: DR-4438, DR-4315, and DR-4575 FEDERAL AWARD YEAR: 2022 CONTROL CATEGORY: Activities Allowed or Unallowed; Allowable Costs/Cost Principles; Period of Performance; Reporting; Special Tests and Provisions QUESTIONED COSTS: $1,170,296 Condition: Upon inquiry of District 1 staff and review of documentation and compliance procedures for ALN 97.036, the following items were noted: • Due to scope limitations placed on the audit, auditors were unable to access records and the ability to communicate with District 1 employees was restricted. • Documents provided to the auditors could not be reconciled to the amounts reported on the Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards (SEFA). • District 1 does not print or certify any expense reports; therefore, any supporting documentation was not reviewed when reporting federal expenditures to the County Clerk. • District 1 was unable to meet the deadlines set by themselves, as it took nine months for the County to provide limited documentation for federal projects. • Federal expenditures could not be tested due to inadequate implementation of policies and procedures regarding the reporting and retention of federal expense documentation. Cause of Condition: Policies and procedures have not been designed and implemented to ensure accurate reporting on the County’s SEFA, and to ensure federal expenditures are made in accordance with federal compliance requirements. Effect of Condition: These conditions resulted in noncompliance with grant requirements and could result in loss of federal funds to the County. Recommendation: OSAI recommends the County gain an understanding of the compliance requirements for federal programs and implement internal control procedures to ensure compliance with all requirements. Further, we recommend all documentation be properly maintained for inspection and ensure accurate reporting on the County’s SEFA. Management Response: Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners: The County will make sure that all federal documentation is maintained by each district for inspection and will ensure it is accurately reported on the SEFA. District 1 County Commissioner: All work associated with the projects referenced in Audit Finding 2020-005 was completed in accordance with FEMA requirements. The work was fully documented, and final results were physically inspected on site by Oklahoma Emergency Management (OEM) personnel. Both OEM and FEMA reviewed and accepted the work performed and the supporting documentation, as evidenced by the county’s reimbursement for the completed projects. FEMA reimbursement would not have occurred had the work or documentation been deficient. Auditors initially indicated that documentation was required for FEMA Event 4315 only. Subsequently, the scope of the request was expanded to include “all events” without a clear written explanation or formal notification of the expanded scope. Following an on-site visit to the county barn for a tabletop discussion, the auditor sent an email dated May 11, 2023, identifying specific projects for which documentation was reportedly still needed. The projects later cited in Audit Finding 2020-05 were not included in that list. On June 12, 2023, the auditor emailed stating: “I believe I have documents for every project except 4575.203.454750 and 4575.203.454831 (Disaster. Project Worksheet.Site).” The requested documentation was provided promptly, and the auditor acknowledged receipt. He subsequently sent several clarifying questions and, in a final email dated June 20, 2023, stated that he would consult with his team and follow up as needed. No further communication was received from the auditor. or any member of the auditor’s office requesting additional documentation. Nearly three years have elapsed without follow-up. The County does have documentation for all projects listed in the audit finding, and these records were provided to auditors during their on-site visits to the county barn. Auditor Response: District 1 did not comply with all requirements of the federal grant including, but not limited to, providing documentation for audit purposes and preparing accurate and reconciled reports. The required documentation to support the FEMA expenditures were not provided to the auditors. Physical inspections by FEMA or OEM do not constitute an audit under Uniform Guidance. An audit includes examining all supporting documentation to ensure the County complied with all the compliance requirements required by Uniform Guidance. Maintaining adequate documentation to support federal grant expenditures is critical for the County to comply with federal compliance requirements. Criteria: 2 CFR § 200.303(a) Internal Controls reads as follows: The non-Federal entity must: Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Title 2 CFR § 200.318 (a), General procurement standards, reads as follows: The recipient or subrecipient must maintain and use documented procedures for procurement transactions under a Federal award or subaward, including for acquisition of property or services. These documented procurement procedures must be consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards identified in 200.317 through 200.327. Title 2 CFR § 200.84 Questioned Cost reads as follows: Questioned cost means a cost that is questioned by the auditor because of an audit finding: (a) Which resulted from a violation or possible violation of a statute, regulation, or the terms and conditions of a Federal award, including for fund used to match Federal funds; (b) Where the costs, at the time of the audit, are not supported by adequate documentation; or (c) Where the costs incurred appear unreasonable and do not reflect the actions a prudent person would take in the circumstances. Further, GAO Standards – Section 2 – Objectives of an Entity – OV2.23 states in part: Compliance Objectives Management conducts activities in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. As part of specifying compliance objectives, the entity determines which laws and regulations apply to the entity. Management is expected to set objectives that incorporate these requirements. [….] The limitations of the auditor are described in the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Clarified Statements on Auditing Standards AU-C § 210, which states, in part: “The concept of an independent audit requires that the auditor's role does not involve assuming management's responsibility for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements or assuming responsibility for the entity's related internal control and that the auditor has a reasonable expectation of obtaining the information necessary for the audit insofar as management is able to provide or procure it. Accordingly, the premise is fundamental to the conduct of an independent audit.”
SIGNIFICANT DEFICIENCY 2022-004 - Procurement, Suspension & Debarment Federal Program Information: ALN - 10.760 - Water and Waste Disposal Systems for Rural Communities Criteria: The following CFR(s) apply to this finding: 2 CFR 200.317-200.326. Condition: During audit procedures, it was identified that the Town did not have a procurement policy in place. Cause: The Town needs to adopt a procurement policy to comply with Uniform Guidance. Effect: Procurements might not conform to applicable Federal laws. Identification of Questioned Costs: None identified. Context: The entire population. Repeat Finding: This is a repeat finding of 2021-004. Recommendation: It is recommended that the Town adopt a procurement policy that follows the Uniform Guidance and that the Town implement internal control processes and procedures to ensure that the adopted policy is followed. Views of Responsible Officials and Corrective Action Plan: Client agrees with finding, and a version of their response can be found in the Corrective Action Plan. Please see the Corrective Action Plan issued by the Town of Livermore Falls.
Federal Agency: Department of Housing and Urban Development and Department of Veterans Affairs Federal Program Name: Emergency Solutions Grant Program and VA Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program Assistance Listing Number: 14.231 and 64.024 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: E20DW37001-2022 and ODMH543-1306-659-PC-21 Pass-Through Agency: North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Aging and Adult Services Pass-Through Number(s): 00041416 Award Period: 7/29/2020 – 6/30/2022 and 10/1/2021 – 9/30/2022 Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: 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. Condition: During our testing, we noted the Organization did not have documented procurement policies and procedures. Questioned costs: None Context: During our testing, we noted the Organization did not have documented procurement policies. Cause: The Organization did not have established procurement policies and did not have internal controls designed to ensure compliance with Federal procurement standards. 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: Yes 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. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the finding.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 2022-002 Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Program Name of Federal Program (CFDA Number) Health Centers Cluster: Consolidated Health Centers (93.224) Grants for Newly Expanded Services under the Health Care Program (93.527) Criteria - Recipients of federal awards must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR section 200.317 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable State laws and regulations, provided that the procedures conform to applicable Federal law and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Recipients ?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 section 200.318(i). The Center?s procurement procedures include the requirement to maintain sufficient documentation of the history of procurement. The Center also has procedures to identify procurement transactions requiring competitive bids or proposals. Context and Condition - We selected four contracts/purchases to test for compliance with procurement standards. Records for two contracts lacked documentation sufficient to detail procurement history. Cause - The Center did not follow its documentation policy for obtaining contracts or bids. Effect - A potential failure to conduct procurement transactions in a manner providing full and open competition exists. Questioned Costs - No costs were questioned. Repeat Finding - No. Statistically valid - Yes. Recommendation - We recommend the Center ensure it 1) maintains documentation of the history of procurement and 2) monitors compliance with documentation requirements. Views of responsible officials - The Center will review its procurement policies and internal controls and ensure timely action is taken when noncompliance is identified.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 2022-002 Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Program Name of Federal Program (CFDA Number) Health Centers Cluster: Consolidated Health Centers (93.224) Grants for Newly Expanded Services under the Health Care Program (93.527) Criteria - Recipients of federal awards must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR section 200.317 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable State laws and regulations, provided that the procedures conform to applicable Federal law and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Recipients ?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 section 200.318(i). The Center?s procurement procedures include the requirement to maintain sufficient documentation of the history of procurement. The Center also has procedures to identify procurement transactions requiring competitive bids or proposals. Context and Condition - We selected four contracts/purchases to test for compliance with procurement standards. Records for two contracts lacked documentation sufficient to detail procurement history. Cause - The Center did not follow its documentation policy for obtaining contracts or bids. Effect - A potential failure to conduct procurement transactions in a manner providing full and open competition exists. Questioned Costs - No costs were questioned. Repeat Finding - No. Statistically valid - Yes. Recommendation - We recommend the Center ensure it 1) maintains documentation of the history of procurement and 2) monitors compliance with documentation requirements. Views of responsible officials - The Center will review its procurement policies and internal controls and ensure timely action is taken when noncompliance is identified.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 2022-002 Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Program Name of Federal Program (CFDA Number) Health Centers Cluster: Consolidated Health Centers (93.224) Grants for Newly Expanded Services under the Health Care Program (93.527) Criteria - Recipients of federal awards must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR section 200.317 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable State laws and regulations, provided that the procedures conform to applicable Federal law and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Recipients ?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 section 200.318(i). The Center?s procurement procedures include the requirement to maintain sufficient documentation of the history of procurement. The Center also has procedures to identify procurement transactions requiring competitive bids or proposals. Context and Condition - We selected four contracts/purchases to test for compliance with procurement standards. Records for two contracts lacked documentation sufficient to detail procurement history. Cause - The Center did not follow its documentation policy for obtaining contracts or bids. Effect - A potential failure to conduct procurement transactions in a manner providing full and open competition exists. Questioned Costs - No costs were questioned. Repeat Finding - No. Statistically valid - Yes. Recommendation - We recommend the Center ensure it 1) maintains documentation of the history of procurement and 2) monitors compliance with documentation requirements. Views of responsible officials - The Center will review its procurement policies and internal controls and ensure timely action is taken when noncompliance is identified.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 2022-002 Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Program Name of Federal Program (CFDA Number) Health Centers Cluster: Consolidated Health Centers (93.224) Grants for Newly Expanded Services under the Health Care Program (93.527) Criteria - Recipients of federal awards must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR section 200.317 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable State laws and regulations, provided that the procedures conform to applicable Federal law and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Recipients ?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 section 200.318(i). The Center?s procurement procedures include the requirement to maintain sufficient documentation of the history of procurement. The Center also has procedures to identify procurement transactions requiring competitive bids or proposals. Context and Condition - We selected four contracts/purchases to test for compliance with procurement standards. Records for two contracts lacked documentation sufficient to detail procurement history. Cause - The Center did not follow its documentation policy for obtaining contracts or bids. Effect - A potential failure to conduct procurement transactions in a manner providing full and open competition exists. Questioned Costs - No costs were questioned. Repeat Finding - No. Statistically valid - Yes. Recommendation - We recommend the Center ensure it 1) maintains documentation of the history of procurement and 2) monitors compliance with documentation requirements. Views of responsible officials - The Center will review its procurement policies and internal controls and ensure timely action is taken when noncompliance is identified.
2021-002 Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Grantor: U.S. Department of Treasury/U.S. Department of Justice Award Name: Equitable Sharing Program Award Year: 01/01/21 – 12/31/21 CFDA Numbers: 21.016 / 16.922 Criteria OMB Uniform Guidance §200.319 states that all procurement transactions for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award must be conducted in a manner providing full and open competition consistent with the standards of this section and §200.320, which states that 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. Condition During our procurement testing procedures, we selected 24 items from the vendor history activity report and traced them to procurement and bidding procedures. Through our testing, we identified two purchases made using Federal funds to purchase vehicles, that were not publicly advertised or made through a non-competitive procurement process. Both of the items exceeded the public bidding threshold but did not follow formal procurements procedures. Cause Due to the global pandemic, the availability of vehicles has become limited. The Borough police department needed specific vehicles for their operations and made the purchases without using formal procurement procedures to avoid the risk of losing the opportunity to purchase the vehicles. Effect The procurement procedures were not followed as required, therefore, Federally funded purchases bypassed procurement regulations. Questioned Costs None noted. Recommendation The Borough should follow procurement policy and publicly advertise for sealed bids on contracts or purchases over $44,000, documenting the significant history of the procurement in the contract file. Management’s View and Corrective Action Plan Management’s views and corrective action plan is included under separate cover and filed with the State of New Jersey.
Criteria: A non-federal entity is required to have certain written policies and procedure in compliance with Uniform Guidance and must comply with the procurement standards as described in 2 CFR 200.318 through 2 CFR 200.327. Specifically, the non-federal entity must comply with the following: • 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. • If the non-Federal entity has a parent, affiliate, or subsidiary organization that is not a State, local government, or Indian tribe, the non-Federal entity must also maintain written standards of conduct covering organizational conflicts of interest. Organizational conflicts of interest means that because of relationships with a parent company, affiliate, or subsidiary organization, the non-Federal entity is unable or appears to be unable to be impartial in conducting a procurement action involving a related organization. Condition: AIRS does not appear to have created written purchasing or procurement policies and procedures as required by 2 CFR 200.318(a). Since AIRS is an affiliate organization of the Ethiopian Community Development Council (ECDC), it appears that the relationship between AIRS and ECDC meets the “affiliate” requirement under 2 CFR 200.318 (c) (2). It does appear that AIRS has created written standards of conduct covering organizational conflicts of interest. Cause: Management has not created or maintained certain written policies and procedures as required under 2 CFR 200.318. Effect: AIRS is not in compliance with certain written policies and procedures as required under 2 CFR 200.318. Questioned Costs: None reported Repeat Finding from Prior Year: No Recommendation: Management and board should create written procurement policies and procedures and written standards of conduct covering organizational conflicts of interest that comply with the procurement standards as required under 2 CFR 200.317 through 2 CFR 200.327. Views of Responsible Officials: Management concurs with this audit finding.
2021-004: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment: Federal Program: Assistance Listing Nos.: 14.267 Continuum of Care Program Condition: The organization was unable to demonstrate controls over the procurement for five 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 expenses that no support could be provided to support the expense took place during grant period as such there is a question cost of $2,447. Effect: The Organization could have expenses that were paid that did not meet their 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 are not being adhered to ensure no issues arise. Repeat: This is not a repeat finding. Responsible Official’s View: The Organization agrees with the finding. See attached corrective action plan.
2021-004: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment: Federal Program: Assistance Listing Nos.: 14.267 Continuum of Care Program Condition: The organization was unable to demonstrate controls over the procurement for five 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 expenses that no support could be provided to support the expense took place during grant period as such there is a question cost of $2,447. Effect: The Organization could have expenses that were paid that did not meet their 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 are not being adhered to ensure no issues arise. Repeat: This is not a repeat finding. Responsible Official’s View: The Organization agrees with the finding. See attached corrective action plan.
2021-004: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment: Federal Program: Assistance Listing Nos.: 14.267 Continuum of Care Program Condition: The organization was unable to demonstrate controls over the procurement for five 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 expenses that no support could be provided to support the expense took place during grant period as such there is a question cost of $2,447. Effect: The Organization could have expenses that were paid that did not meet their 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 are not being adhered to ensure no issues arise. Repeat: This is not a repeat finding. Responsible Official’s View: The Organization agrees with the finding. See attached corrective action plan.
2021-004: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment: Federal Program: Assistance Listing Nos.: 14.267 Continuum of Care Program Condition: The organization was unable to demonstrate controls over the procurement for five 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 expenses that no support could be provided to support the expense took place during grant period as such there is a question cost of $2,447. Effect: The Organization could have expenses that were paid that did not meet their 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 are not being adhered to ensure no issues arise. Repeat: This is not a repeat finding. Responsible Official’s View: The Organization agrees with the finding. See attached corrective action plan.
Finding 2021-005: 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: 2020-005. 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 2021-005: 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: 2020-005. 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 2021-005: 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: 2020-005. 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 2021-005: 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: 2020-005. 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 2021-005: 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: 2020-005. 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 2021-005: 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: 2020-005. 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 2021-005: 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: 2020-005. 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 2021-005: 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: 2020-005. 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 2021-005: 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: 2020-005. 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 2021-005: 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: 2020-005. 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 2021-005: 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: 2020-005. 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 2021-005: 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: 2020-005. 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 2021-005: 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: 2020-005. 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 2021-005: 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: 2020-005. 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 2021-005: 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: 2020-005. 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 2021-005: 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: 2020-005. 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 2021-005: 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: 2020-005. 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 2021-005: Procurement Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Education and Human Resources) Assistance Listing Number and Title: 47.076 STEM Education Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity (when applicable), Award Number and Year: National Science Foundation: 1431638 (9/1/2014 – 8/31/2022), 1524963 (11/1/2015 – 9/30/2021), 1500529 (9/1/2015 – 8/31/2022), 1624185 (9/16/2016 – 8/31/2022), 1640791 (9/15/2016 – 8/31/2022), 1720869 (5/15/2017 – 4/30/2022), 1726113 (8/1/2017 – 9/30/2023), 1821462 (7/1/2018 – 6/30/2024), 1812860 (9/1/2018 – 8/31/2020), 1940925 (1/15/2020 – 12/31/2023), 1907950 (7/1/2019 – 6/30/2024), 2015205 (4/1/2020 – 3/31/2022), 2021059 (10/1/2020 – 9/30/2024) Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Mathematical and Physical Sciences)Assistance Listing Number and Title: 47.049 Mathematical and Physical Sciences Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity, Award Number and Year: National Science Foundation: 1821372 (10/1/2018 – 9/30/2024 pass through entity American Physical Society), 1834530 (9/1/2018 – 8/31/2025 pass through entity American Physical Society), 1938815 (8/1/2020 – 7/31/2024) Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Science) Assistance Listing Number and Title: 43.001 Science Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity: National Aeronautics and Space Administration: NNX16AR36A (8/24/2016 – 8/23/2021 pass through entity Temple University of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education), 80NSSC21K1560 (6/28/2021 – 6/27/2022 pass through entity Temple University of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education) Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Over Compliance, Other matters 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: 2020-005. 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: November 2024 Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2021-005: Procurement Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Education and Human Resources) Assistance Listing Number and Title: 47.076 STEM Education Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity (when applicable), Award Number and Year: National Science Foundation: 1431638 (9/1/2014 – 8/31/2022), 1524963 (11/1/2015 – 9/30/2021), 1500529 (9/1/2015 – 8/31/2022), 1624185 (9/16/2016 – 8/31/2022), 1640791 (9/15/2016 – 8/31/2022), 1720869 (5/15/2017 – 4/30/2022), 1726113 (8/1/2017 – 9/30/2023), 1821462 (7/1/2018 – 6/30/2024), 1812860 (9/1/2018 – 8/31/2020), 1940925 (1/15/2020 – 12/31/2023), 1907950 (7/1/2019 – 6/30/2024), 2015205 (4/1/2020 – 3/31/2022), 2021059 (10/1/2020 – 9/30/2024) Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Mathematical and Physical Sciences)Assistance Listing Number and Title: 47.049 Mathematical and Physical Sciences Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity, Award Number and Year: National Science Foundation: 1821372 (10/1/2018 – 9/30/2024 pass through entity American Physical Society), 1834530 (9/1/2018 – 8/31/2025 pass through entity American Physical Society), 1938815 (8/1/2020 – 7/31/2024) Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Science) Assistance Listing Number and Title: 43.001 Science Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity: National Aeronautics and Space Administration: NNX16AR36A (8/24/2016 – 8/23/2021 pass through entity Temple University of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education), 80NSSC21K1560 (6/28/2021 – 6/27/2022 pass through entity Temple University of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education) Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Over Compliance, Other matters 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: 2020-005. 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: November 2024 Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2021-005: Procurement Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Education and Human Resources) Assistance Listing Number and Title: 47.076 STEM Education Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity (when applicable), Award Number and Year: National Science Foundation: 1431638 (9/1/2014 – 8/31/2022), 1524963 (11/1/2015 – 9/30/2021), 1500529 (9/1/2015 – 8/31/2022), 1624185 (9/16/2016 – 8/31/2022), 1640791 (9/15/2016 – 8/31/2022), 1720869 (5/15/2017 – 4/30/2022), 1726113 (8/1/2017 – 9/30/2023), 1821462 (7/1/2018 – 6/30/2024), 1812860 (9/1/2018 – 8/31/2020), 1940925 (1/15/2020 – 12/31/2023), 1907950 (7/1/2019 – 6/30/2024), 2015205 (4/1/2020 – 3/31/2022), 2021059 (10/1/2020 – 9/30/2024) Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Mathematical and Physical Sciences)Assistance Listing Number and Title: 47.049 Mathematical and Physical Sciences Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity, Award Number and Year: National Science Foundation: 1821372 (10/1/2018 – 9/30/2024 pass through entity American Physical Society), 1834530 (9/1/2018 – 8/31/2025 pass through entity American Physical Society), 1938815 (8/1/2020 – 7/31/2024) Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Science) Assistance Listing Number and Title: 43.001 Science Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity: National Aeronautics and Space Administration: NNX16AR36A (8/24/2016 – 8/23/2021 pass through entity Temple University of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education), 80NSSC21K1560 (6/28/2021 – 6/27/2022 pass through entity Temple University of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education) Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Over Compliance, Other matters 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: 2020-005. 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: November 2024 Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2021-005: Procurement Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Education and Human Resources) Assistance Listing Number and Title: 47.076 STEM Education Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity (when applicable), Award Number and Year: National Science Foundation: 1431638 (9/1/2014 – 8/31/2022), 1524963 (11/1/2015 – 9/30/2021), 1500529 (9/1/2015 – 8/31/2022), 1624185 (9/16/2016 – 8/31/2022), 1640791 (9/15/2016 – 8/31/2022), 1720869 (5/15/2017 – 4/30/2022), 1726113 (8/1/2017 – 9/30/2023), 1821462 (7/1/2018 – 6/30/2024), 1812860 (9/1/2018 – 8/31/2020), 1940925 (1/15/2020 – 12/31/2023), 1907950 (7/1/2019 – 6/30/2024), 2015205 (4/1/2020 – 3/31/2022), 2021059 (10/1/2020 – 9/30/2024) Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Mathematical and Physical Sciences)Assistance Listing Number and Title: 47.049 Mathematical and Physical Sciences Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity, Award Number and Year: National Science Foundation: 1821372 (10/1/2018 – 9/30/2024 pass through entity American Physical Society), 1834530 (9/1/2018 – 8/31/2025 pass through entity American Physical Society), 1938815 (8/1/2020 – 7/31/2024) Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Science) Assistance Listing Number and Title: 43.001 Science Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity: National Aeronautics and Space Administration: NNX16AR36A (8/24/2016 – 8/23/2021 pass through entity Temple University of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education), 80NSSC21K1560 (6/28/2021 – 6/27/2022 pass through entity Temple University of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education) Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Over Compliance, Other matters 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: 2020-005. 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: November 2024 Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2021-005: Procurement Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Education and Human Resources) Assistance Listing Number and Title: 47.076 STEM Education Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity (when applicable), Award Number and Year: National Science Foundation: 1431638 (9/1/2014 – 8/31/2022), 1524963 (11/1/2015 – 9/30/2021), 1500529 (9/1/2015 – 8/31/2022), 1624185 (9/16/2016 – 8/31/2022), 1640791 (9/15/2016 – 8/31/2022), 1720869 (5/15/2017 – 4/30/2022), 1726113 (8/1/2017 – 9/30/2023), 1821462 (7/1/2018 – 6/30/2024), 1812860 (9/1/2018 – 8/31/2020), 1940925 (1/15/2020 – 12/31/2023), 1907950 (7/1/2019 – 6/30/2024), 2015205 (4/1/2020 – 3/31/2022), 2021059 (10/1/2020 – 9/30/2024) Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Mathematical and Physical Sciences)Assistance Listing Number and Title: 47.049 Mathematical and Physical Sciences Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity, Award Number and Year: National Science Foundation: 1821372 (10/1/2018 – 9/30/2024 pass through entity American Physical Society), 1834530 (9/1/2018 – 8/31/2025 pass through entity American Physical Society), 1938815 (8/1/2020 – 7/31/2024) Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Science) Assistance Listing Number and Title: 43.001 Science Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity: National Aeronautics and Space Administration: NNX16AR36A (8/24/2016 – 8/23/2021 pass through entity Temple University of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education), 80NSSC21K1560 (6/28/2021 – 6/27/2022 pass through entity Temple University of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education) Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Over Compliance, Other matters 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: 2020-005. 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: November 2024 Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2021-005: Procurement Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Education and Human Resources) Assistance Listing Number and Title: 47.076 STEM Education Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity (when applicable), Award Number and Year: National Science Foundation: 1431638 (9/1/2014 – 8/31/2022), 1524963 (11/1/2015 – 9/30/2021), 1500529 (9/1/2015 – 8/31/2022), 1624185 (9/16/2016 – 8/31/2022), 1640791 (9/15/2016 – 8/31/2022), 1720869 (5/15/2017 – 4/30/2022), 1726113 (8/1/2017 – 9/30/2023), 1821462 (7/1/2018 – 6/30/2024), 1812860 (9/1/2018 – 8/31/2020), 1940925 (1/15/2020 – 12/31/2023), 1907950 (7/1/2019 – 6/30/2024), 2015205 (4/1/2020 – 3/31/2022), 2021059 (10/1/2020 – 9/30/2024) Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Mathematical and Physical Sciences)Assistance Listing Number and Title: 47.049 Mathematical and Physical Sciences Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity, Award Number and Year: National Science Foundation: 1821372 (10/1/2018 – 9/30/2024 pass through entity American Physical Society), 1834530 (9/1/2018 – 8/31/2025 pass through entity American Physical Society), 1938815 (8/1/2020 – 7/31/2024) Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Science) Assistance Listing Number and Title: 43.001 Science Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity: National Aeronautics and Space Administration: NNX16AR36A (8/24/2016 – 8/23/2021 pass through entity Temple University of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education), 80NSSC21K1560 (6/28/2021 – 6/27/2022 pass through entity Temple University of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education) Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Over Compliance, Other matters 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: 2020-005. 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: November 2024 Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2021-005: Procurement Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Education and Human Resources) Assistance Listing Number and Title: 47.076 STEM Education Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity (when applicable), Award Number and Year: National Science Foundation: 1431638 (9/1/2014 – 8/31/2022), 1524963 (11/1/2015 – 9/30/2021), 1500529 (9/1/2015 – 8/31/2022), 1624185 (9/16/2016 – 8/31/2022), 1640791 (9/15/2016 – 8/31/2022), 1720869 (5/15/2017 – 4/30/2022), 1726113 (8/1/2017 – 9/30/2023), 1821462 (7/1/2018 – 6/30/2024), 1812860 (9/1/2018 – 8/31/2020), 1940925 (1/15/2020 – 12/31/2023), 1907950 (7/1/2019 – 6/30/2024), 2015205 (4/1/2020 – 3/31/2022), 2021059 (10/1/2020 – 9/30/2024) Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Mathematical and Physical Sciences)Assistance Listing Number and Title: 47.049 Mathematical and Physical Sciences Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity, Award Number and Year: National Science Foundation: 1821372 (10/1/2018 – 9/30/2024 pass through entity American Physical Society), 1834530 (9/1/2018 – 8/31/2025 pass through entity American Physical Society), 1938815 (8/1/2020 – 7/31/2024) Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Science) Assistance Listing Number and Title: 43.001 Science Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity: National Aeronautics and Space Administration: NNX16AR36A (8/24/2016 – 8/23/2021 pass through entity Temple University of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education), 80NSSC21K1560 (6/28/2021 – 6/27/2022 pass through entity Temple University of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education) Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Over Compliance, Other matters 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: 2020-005. 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: November 2024 Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO
Finding 2021-005: Procurement Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Education and Human Resources) Assistance Listing Number and Title: 47.076 STEM Education Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity (when applicable), Award Number and Year: National Science Foundation: 1431638 (9/1/2014 – 8/31/2022), 1524963 (11/1/2015 – 9/30/2021), 1500529 (9/1/2015 – 8/31/2022), 1624185 (9/16/2016 – 8/31/2022), 1640791 (9/15/2016 – 8/31/2022), 1720869 (5/15/2017 – 4/30/2022), 1726113 (8/1/2017 – 9/30/2023), 1821462 (7/1/2018 – 6/30/2024), 1812860 (9/1/2018 – 8/31/2020), 1940925 (1/15/2020 – 12/31/2023), 1907950 (7/1/2019 – 6/30/2024), 2015205 (4/1/2020 – 3/31/2022), 2021059 (10/1/2020 – 9/30/2024) Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Mathematical and Physical Sciences)Assistance Listing Number and Title: 47.049 Mathematical and Physical Sciences Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity, Award Number and Year: National Science Foundation: 1821372 (10/1/2018 – 9/30/2024 pass through entity American Physical Society), 1834530 (9/1/2018 – 8/31/2025 pass through entity American Physical Society), 1938815 (8/1/2020 – 7/31/2024) Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster (Science) Assistance Listing Number and Title: 43.001 Science Name of Federal Agency, Pass Through Entity: National Aeronautics and Space Administration: NNX16AR36A (8/24/2016 – 8/23/2021 pass through entity Temple University of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education), 80NSSC21K1560 (6/28/2021 – 6/27/2022 pass through entity Temple University of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education) Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Over Compliance, Other matters 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: 2020-005. 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: November 2024 Responsible Official: Dr. Beth Cunningham CEO, Michael Brosnan CFO