Reference Number: 2022-001 Prior Year Finding: Yes – 2021-001 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through Agency: Various Federal Program: Emergency Solutions Grant Program ALN Number: 14.231 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Material Weakness, Noncompliance Criteria or specific requirement: As per § 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. (d) 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: Based on our review of the Procurement compliance requirements, we noted that the Division has written procurement policies and competitive policies as required by CFR § 200.318 General procurement standards. We selected five (5) vendors for procurement Suspension and Debarment compliance testing of total population of 5 vendors subject to procurement and we were not provided with Procurement comparative bids therefore, we were unable: • To verify that the procurement method used was appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. • To Verify that procurements provide full and open competition (2 CFR section 200.319 and 48 CFR section 52.244-5). Cause: The Division did not ensured that as a non-Federal entity must have and must use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local laws and regulations and the standards of §§ 200.318 through 200.327, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. Effect: The funding agency can reject the expenditures incurred by the Division on certain vendors where the Division must use procurement method appropriately based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. Questioned costs: Cannot be determined Recommendation: We recommend that the Division must: • Use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local, laws and regulations and the standards, for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. • The Division must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records should 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. Views of responsible officials: The Division will work with Territorial Headquarters to document procedures as outlined in the Recommendations above. See corrective action plan.
Reference Number: 2022-001 Prior Year Finding: Yes – 2021-001 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through Agency: Various Federal Program: Emergency Solutions Grant Program ALN Number: 14.231 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Material Weakness, Noncompliance Criteria or specific requirement: As per § 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. (d) 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: Based on our review of the Procurement compliance requirements, we noted that the Division has written procurement policies and competitive policies as required by CFR § 200.318 General procurement standards. We selected five (5) vendors for procurement Suspension and Debarment compliance testing of total population of 5 vendors subject to procurement and we were not provided with Procurement comparative bids therefore, we were unable: • To verify that the procurement method used was appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. • To Verify that procurements provide full and open competition (2 CFR section 200.319 and 48 CFR section 52.244-5). Cause: The Division did not ensured that as a non-Federal entity must have and must use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local laws and regulations and the standards of §§ 200.318 through 200.327, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. Effect: The funding agency can reject the expenditures incurred by the Division on certain vendors where the Division must use procurement method appropriately based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. Questioned costs: Cannot be determined Recommendation: We recommend that the Division must: • Use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local, laws and regulations and the standards, for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. • The Division must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records should 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. Views of responsible officials: The Division will work with Territorial Headquarters to document procedures as outlined in the Recommendations above. See corrective action plan.
Reference Number: 2022-001 Prior Year Finding: Yes – 2021-001 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through Agency: Various Federal Program: Emergency Solutions Grant Program ALN Number: 14.231 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Material Weakness, Noncompliance Criteria or specific requirement: As per § 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. (d) 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: Based on our review of the Procurement compliance requirements, we noted that the Division has written procurement policies and competitive policies as required by CFR § 200.318 General procurement standards. We selected five (5) vendors for procurement Suspension and Debarment compliance testing of total population of 5 vendors subject to procurement and we were not provided with Procurement comparative bids therefore, we were unable: • To verify that the procurement method used was appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. • To Verify that procurements provide full and open competition (2 CFR section 200.319 and 48 CFR section 52.244-5). Cause: The Division did not ensured that as a non-Federal entity must have and must use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local laws and regulations and the standards of §§ 200.318 through 200.327, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. Effect: The funding agency can reject the expenditures incurred by the Division on certain vendors where the Division must use procurement method appropriately based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. Questioned costs: Cannot be determined Recommendation: We recommend that the Division must: • Use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local, laws and regulations and the standards, for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. • The Division must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records should 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. Views of responsible officials: The Division will work with Territorial Headquarters to document procedures as outlined in the Recommendations above. See corrective action plan.
Reference Number: 2022-001 Prior Year Finding: Yes – 2021-001 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through Agency: Various Federal Program: Emergency Solutions Grant Program ALN Number: 14.231 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Material Weakness, Noncompliance Criteria or specific requirement: As per § 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. (d) 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: Based on our review of the Procurement compliance requirements, we noted that the Division has written procurement policies and competitive policies as required by CFR § 200.318 General procurement standards. We selected five (5) vendors for procurement Suspension and Debarment compliance testing of total population of 5 vendors subject to procurement and we were not provided with Procurement comparative bids therefore, we were unable: • To verify that the procurement method used was appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. • To Verify that procurements provide full and open competition (2 CFR section 200.319 and 48 CFR section 52.244-5). Cause: The Division did not ensured that as a non-Federal entity must have and must use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local laws and regulations and the standards of §§ 200.318 through 200.327, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. Effect: The funding agency can reject the expenditures incurred by the Division on certain vendors where the Division must use procurement method appropriately based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. Questioned costs: Cannot be determined Recommendation: We recommend that the Division must: • Use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local, laws and regulations and the standards, for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. • The Division must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records should 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. Views of responsible officials: The Division will work with Territorial Headquarters to document procedures as outlined in the Recommendations above. See corrective action plan.
Reference Number: 2022-001 Prior Year Finding: Yes – 2021-001 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through Agency: Various Federal Program: Emergency Solutions Grant Program ALN Number: 14.231 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Material Weakness, Noncompliance Criteria or specific requirement: As per § 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. (d) 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: Based on our review of the Procurement compliance requirements, we noted that the Division has written procurement policies and competitive policies as required by CFR § 200.318 General procurement standards. We selected five (5) vendors for procurement Suspension and Debarment compliance testing of total population of 5 vendors subject to procurement and we were not provided with Procurement comparative bids therefore, we were unable: • To verify that the procurement method used was appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. • To Verify that procurements provide full and open competition (2 CFR section 200.319 and 48 CFR section 52.244-5). Cause: The Division did not ensured that as a non-Federal entity must have and must use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local laws and regulations and the standards of §§ 200.318 through 200.327, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. Effect: The funding agency can reject the expenditures incurred by the Division on certain vendors where the Division must use procurement method appropriately based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. Questioned costs: Cannot be determined Recommendation: We recommend that the Division must: • Use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local, laws and regulations and the standards, for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. • The Division must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records should 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. Views of responsible officials: The Division will work with Territorial Headquarters to document procedures as outlined in the Recommendations above. See corrective action plan.
Criteria: Uniform Guidance requires organizations to have and document procurement and suspension and debarment procedures for the acquisition of property under a federal award in accordance with 2 CFR 200.318. Condition: The Council did not comply with the Uniform Guidance requirement for the Council to have and document procurement procedures for the acquisition of property under a federal award. Questioned Costs: $0 Cause: The Council’s internal control did not identify and establish policies for procurement and suspension and debarment; and the Council did not comply with federal requirements regarding procurement and suspension and debarment. Effect: The Council was not in compliance with Uniform Guidance 2 CFR 200.318. Recommendation: We recommend the Council develop and adopt a formal policy on procurement and suspension and debarment. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action: The Council began a building renovation project before it became aware that funds were available to support the project. Therefore, the Council was not able to comply with regulations at the time of project design, bidding, planning, and construction. In addition, the Council’s project was only partially funded by the Coronavirus Recovery Funds, the majority of the project was funded through the Council’s fundraising efforts. Management agrees with the finding and is in the process of implementing the recommended procedures for future projects.
Federal Programs Information: Funding Agency: Department of Health and Human Services Title: Head Start Assistance Listing Number: 93.600 Award Period: September 1, 2021 ? August 31, 2022, September 1, 2022 ? August 31, 2023 Funding Agency: Department of Health and Human Services Title: Indian Self-Determination Assistance Listing Number: 93.441 Award Period: January 1, 2022 ? December 31, 2024 Criteria: The Office?s policies and procedures contains various requirements, including policies requiring certain levels of administrative and legal review, obtaining one or more written bids at various dollar thresholds, and requiring different levels of approval based on dollar values. Uniform Guidance regulations section CFR 200.318(a) and CFR 200.320(a) state, the non-Federal entity must use its own documented procurement procedures which reflect applicable State, local, and tribal laws and regulations, provided that the procurement conform to applicable Federal law and the standards identified. Condition: For Head Start, in our selected sample of 41 expenditures, we noted an expenditure of $208,932 that required either a sole source form or three written bids, and a legal review per the Office?s policy. These forms were not obtained. There was sole source justification; however, it was written by the vendor. The Tribal Council approved the purchase, but the resolution didn?t mention the vendor and/or the need to sole source the purchase. For Indian Self-Determination, in our selected sample of 40 expenditures, we noted an expenditure of $7,772 that did not have the required three written bids, an expenditure for $15,331 that did not have the required governor?s signature, and an expenditure that was approved for $365 but was later revised to $640 without any additional approvals. Questioned Costs: None. Context: 4 of 81 transactions tested across these two programs were missing documentation required by the Office?s procurement policy. Cause: The Office?s policies and procedures were not always being enforced or being followed. Additionally, the Office?s procurement policy requires sole source documentation for certain expenditures and contracts where the bidding process is bypassed, but the Office has not developed such a form. Effect: The Office was not in compliance with procurement standards and made payments during the year that were in violation of their policy. Auditors? Recommendation: We recommend the Office adhere to the procurement policy that it has developed, and we recommend a sole source form be generated that conforms to the requirements of the procurement policy. Management?s Response: For Head Start ? The Office?s procurement policy allows for sole source procurement if Tribal Council specifically authorizes its use. For the Head Start expenditure of $208,932, Tribal Council Resolution 08-2021-36 specifically approved this expenditure. The Office?s procurement policy does reference a sole source form. However, a sole source form was never created when the procurement policy was approved by Tribal Council. Therefore, a memo justifying the sole source procurement was accepted as sufficient documentation and justification of the sole source procurement. Because this was a sole source procurement, three written bids were not required. Also, legal review is not required for this expenditure because it is a purchase of goods. Legal review is only required for purchase of services above a certain threshold. The Office is in the process of updating its procurement policy and will create a sole source justification form in connection with the update. For Indian Self-Determination ? The Office acknowledges the lack of three written bids for a $7,772 expenditure. Only one written quote was obtained for this purchase. The Office also acknowledges the lack of Governor?s signature on a $15,331 purchase requisition. A new Administrative Assistant issued this purchase requisition and was not properly trained on obtaining Governor?s signature for all purchase requisitions greater than $5,000. It should be noted that Governor signed the check related to this expenditure so was able to see the purchase at that time. The Office also acknowledges a revision was not made to a $365 purchase requisition when an additional purchase was added to the approved purchase requisition.
Federal Programs Information: Funding Agency: Department of Health and Human Services Title: Head Start Assistance Listing Number: 93.600 Award Period: September 1, 2021 ? August 31, 2022, September 1, 2022 ? August 31, 2023 Funding Agency: Department of Health and Human Services Title: Indian Self-Determination Assistance Listing Number: 93.441 Award Period: January 1, 2022 ? December 31, 2024 Criteria: The Office?s policies and procedures contains various requirements, including policies requiring certain levels of administrative and legal review, obtaining one or more written bids at various dollar thresholds, and requiring different levels of approval based on dollar values. Uniform Guidance regulations section CFR 200.318(a) and CFR 200.320(a) state, the non-Federal entity must use its own documented procurement procedures which reflect applicable State, local, and tribal laws and regulations, provided that the procurement conform to applicable Federal law and the standards identified. Condition: For Head Start, in our selected sample of 41 expenditures, we noted an expenditure of $208,932 that required either a sole source form or three written bids, and a legal review per the Office?s policy. These forms were not obtained. There was sole source justification; however, it was written by the vendor. The Tribal Council approved the purchase, but the resolution didn?t mention the vendor and/or the need to sole source the purchase. For Indian Self-Determination, in our selected sample of 40 expenditures, we noted an expenditure of $7,772 that did not have the required three written bids, an expenditure for $15,331 that did not have the required governor?s signature, and an expenditure that was approved for $365 but was later revised to $640 without any additional approvals. Questioned Costs: None. Context: 4 of 81 transactions tested across these two programs were missing documentation required by the Office?s procurement policy. Cause: The Office?s policies and procedures were not always being enforced or being followed. Additionally, the Office?s procurement policy requires sole source documentation for certain expenditures and contracts where the bidding process is bypassed, but the Office has not developed such a form. Effect: The Office was not in compliance with procurement standards and made payments during the year that were in violation of their policy. Auditors? Recommendation: We recommend the Office adhere to the procurement policy that it has developed, and we recommend a sole source form be generated that conforms to the requirements of the procurement policy. Management?s Response: For Head Start ? The Office?s procurement policy allows for sole source procurement if Tribal Council specifically authorizes its use. For the Head Start expenditure of $208,932, Tribal Council Resolution 08-2021-36 specifically approved this expenditure. The Office?s procurement policy does reference a sole source form. However, a sole source form was never created when the procurement policy was approved by Tribal Council. Therefore, a memo justifying the sole source procurement was accepted as sufficient documentation and justification of the sole source procurement. Because this was a sole source procurement, three written bids were not required. Also, legal review is not required for this expenditure because it is a purchase of goods. Legal review is only required for purchase of services above a certain threshold. The Office is in the process of updating its procurement policy and will create a sole source justification form in connection with the update. For Indian Self-Determination ? The Office acknowledges the lack of three written bids for a $7,772 expenditure. Only one written quote was obtained for this purchase. The Office also acknowledges the lack of Governor?s signature on a $15,331 purchase requisition. A new Administrative Assistant issued this purchase requisition and was not properly trained on obtaining Governor?s signature for all purchase requisitions greater than $5,000. It should be noted that Governor signed the check related to this expenditure so was able to see the purchase at that time. The Office also acknowledges a revision was not made to a $365 purchase requisition when an additional purchase was added to the approved purchase requisition.
Federal Programs Information: Funding Agency: Department of Health and Human Services Title: Head Start Assistance Listing Number: 93.600 Award Period: September 1, 2021 ? August 31, 2022, September 1, 2022 ? August 31, 2023 Funding Agency: Department of Health and Human Services Title: Indian Self-Determination Assistance Listing Number: 93.441 Award Period: January 1, 2022 ? December 31, 2024 Criteria: The Office?s policies and procedures contains various requirements, including policies requiring certain levels of administrative and legal review, obtaining one or more written bids at various dollar thresholds, and requiring different levels of approval based on dollar values. Uniform Guidance regulations section CFR 200.318(a) and CFR 200.320(a) state, the non-Federal entity must use its own documented procurement procedures which reflect applicable State, local, and tribal laws and regulations, provided that the procurement conform to applicable Federal law and the standards identified. Condition: For Head Start, in our selected sample of 41 expenditures, we noted an expenditure of $208,932 that required either a sole source form or three written bids, and a legal review per the Office?s policy. These forms were not obtained. There was sole source justification; however, it was written by the vendor. The Tribal Council approved the purchase, but the resolution didn?t mention the vendor and/or the need to sole source the purchase. For Indian Self-Determination, in our selected sample of 40 expenditures, we noted an expenditure of $7,772 that did not have the required three written bids, an expenditure for $15,331 that did not have the required governor?s signature, and an expenditure that was approved for $365 but was later revised to $640 without any additional approvals. Questioned Costs: None. Context: 4 of 81 transactions tested across these two programs were missing documentation required by the Office?s procurement policy. Cause: The Office?s policies and procedures were not always being enforced or being followed. Additionally, the Office?s procurement policy requires sole source documentation for certain expenditures and contracts where the bidding process is bypassed, but the Office has not developed such a form. Effect: The Office was not in compliance with procurement standards and made payments during the year that were in violation of their policy. Auditors? Recommendation: We recommend the Office adhere to the procurement policy that it has developed, and we recommend a sole source form be generated that conforms to the requirements of the procurement policy. Management?s Response: For Head Start ? The Office?s procurement policy allows for sole source procurement if Tribal Council specifically authorizes its use. For the Head Start expenditure of $208,932, Tribal Council Resolution 08-2021-36 specifically approved this expenditure. The Office?s procurement policy does reference a sole source form. However, a sole source form was never created when the procurement policy was approved by Tribal Council. Therefore, a memo justifying the sole source procurement was accepted as sufficient documentation and justification of the sole source procurement. Because this was a sole source procurement, three written bids were not required. Also, legal review is not required for this expenditure because it is a purchase of goods. Legal review is only required for purchase of services above a certain threshold. The Office is in the process of updating its procurement policy and will create a sole source justification form in connection with the update. For Indian Self-Determination ? The Office acknowledges the lack of three written bids for a $7,772 expenditure. Only one written quote was obtained for this purchase. The Office also acknowledges the lack of Governor?s signature on a $15,331 purchase requisition. A new Administrative Assistant issued this purchase requisition and was not properly trained on obtaining Governor?s signature for all purchase requisitions greater than $5,000. It should be noted that Governor signed the check related to this expenditure so was able to see the purchase at that time. The Office also acknowledges a revision was not made to a $365 purchase requisition when an additional purchase was added to the approved purchase requisition.
Federal Programs Information: Funding Agency: Department of Health and Human Services Title: Head Start Assistance Listing Number: 93.600 Award Period: September 1, 2021 ? August 31, 2022, September 1, 2022 ? August 31, 2023 Funding Agency: Department of Health and Human Services Title: Indian Self-Determination Assistance Listing Number: 93.441 Award Period: January 1, 2022 ? December 31, 2024 Criteria: The Office?s policies and procedures contains various requirements, including policies requiring certain levels of administrative and legal review, obtaining one or more written bids at various dollar thresholds, and requiring different levels of approval based on dollar values. Uniform Guidance regulations section CFR 200.318(a) and CFR 200.320(a) state, the non-Federal entity must use its own documented procurement procedures which reflect applicable State, local, and tribal laws and regulations, provided that the procurement conform to applicable Federal law and the standards identified. Condition: For Head Start, in our selected sample of 41 expenditures, we noted an expenditure of $208,932 that required either a sole source form or three written bids, and a legal review per the Office?s policy. These forms were not obtained. There was sole source justification; however, it was written by the vendor. The Tribal Council approved the purchase, but the resolution didn?t mention the vendor and/or the need to sole source the purchase. For Indian Self-Determination, in our selected sample of 40 expenditures, we noted an expenditure of $7,772 that did not have the required three written bids, an expenditure for $15,331 that did not have the required governor?s signature, and an expenditure that was approved for $365 but was later revised to $640 without any additional approvals. Questioned Costs: None. Context: 4 of 81 transactions tested across these two programs were missing documentation required by the Office?s procurement policy. Cause: The Office?s policies and procedures were not always being enforced or being followed. Additionally, the Office?s procurement policy requires sole source documentation for certain expenditures and contracts where the bidding process is bypassed, but the Office has not developed such a form. Effect: The Office was not in compliance with procurement standards and made payments during the year that were in violation of their policy. Auditors? Recommendation: We recommend the Office adhere to the procurement policy that it has developed, and we recommend a sole source form be generated that conforms to the requirements of the procurement policy. Management?s Response: For Head Start ? The Office?s procurement policy allows for sole source procurement if Tribal Council specifically authorizes its use. For the Head Start expenditure of $208,932, Tribal Council Resolution 08-2021-36 specifically approved this expenditure. The Office?s procurement policy does reference a sole source form. However, a sole source form was never created when the procurement policy was approved by Tribal Council. Therefore, a memo justifying the sole source procurement was accepted as sufficient documentation and justification of the sole source procurement. Because this was a sole source procurement, three written bids were not required. Also, legal review is not required for this expenditure because it is a purchase of goods. Legal review is only required for purchase of services above a certain threshold. The Office is in the process of updating its procurement policy and will create a sole source justification form in connection with the update. For Indian Self-Determination ? The Office acknowledges the lack of three written bids for a $7,772 expenditure. Only one written quote was obtained for this purchase. The Office also acknowledges the lack of Governor?s signature on a $15,331 purchase requisition. A new Administrative Assistant issued this purchase requisition and was not properly trained on obtaining Governor?s signature for all purchase requisitions greater than $5,000. It should be noted that Governor signed the check related to this expenditure so was able to see the purchase at that time. The Office also acknowledges a revision was not made to a $365 purchase requisition when an additional purchase was added to the approved purchase requisition.
Federal Programs Information: Funding Agency: Department of Health and Human Services Title: Head Start Assistance Listing Number: 93.600 Award Period: September 1, 2021 ? August 31, 2022, September 1, 2022 ? August 31, 2023 Funding Agency: Department of Health and Human Services Title: Indian Self-Determination Assistance Listing Number: 93.441 Award Period: January 1, 2022 ? December 31, 2024 Criteria: The Office?s policies and procedures contains various requirements, including policies requiring certain levels of administrative and legal review, obtaining one or more written bids at various dollar thresholds, and requiring different levels of approval based on dollar values. Uniform Guidance regulations section CFR 200.318(a) and CFR 200.320(a) state, the non-Federal entity must use its own documented procurement procedures which reflect applicable State, local, and tribal laws and regulations, provided that the procurement conform to applicable Federal law and the standards identified. Condition: For Head Start, in our selected sample of 41 expenditures, we noted an expenditure of $208,932 that required either a sole source form or three written bids, and a legal review per the Office?s policy. These forms were not obtained. There was sole source justification; however, it was written by the vendor. The Tribal Council approved the purchase, but the resolution didn?t mention the vendor and/or the need to sole source the purchase. For Indian Self-Determination, in our selected sample of 40 expenditures, we noted an expenditure of $7,772 that did not have the required three written bids, an expenditure for $15,331 that did not have the required governor?s signature, and an expenditure that was approved for $365 but was later revised to $640 without any additional approvals. Questioned Costs: None. Context: 4 of 81 transactions tested across these two programs were missing documentation required by the Office?s procurement policy. Cause: The Office?s policies and procedures were not always being enforced or being followed. Additionally, the Office?s procurement policy requires sole source documentation for certain expenditures and contracts where the bidding process is bypassed, but the Office has not developed such a form. Effect: The Office was not in compliance with procurement standards and made payments during the year that were in violation of their policy. Auditors? Recommendation: We recommend the Office adhere to the procurement policy that it has developed, and we recommend a sole source form be generated that conforms to the requirements of the procurement policy. Management?s Response: For Head Start ? The Office?s procurement policy allows for sole source procurement if Tribal Council specifically authorizes its use. For the Head Start expenditure of $208,932, Tribal Council Resolution 08-2021-36 specifically approved this expenditure. The Office?s procurement policy does reference a sole source form. However, a sole source form was never created when the procurement policy was approved by Tribal Council. Therefore, a memo justifying the sole source procurement was accepted as sufficient documentation and justification of the sole source procurement. Because this was a sole source procurement, three written bids were not required. Also, legal review is not required for this expenditure because it is a purchase of goods. Legal review is only required for purchase of services above a certain threshold. The Office is in the process of updating its procurement policy and will create a sole source justification form in connection with the update. For Indian Self-Determination ? The Office acknowledges the lack of three written bids for a $7,772 expenditure. Only one written quote was obtained for this purchase. The Office also acknowledges the lack of Governor?s signature on a $15,331 purchase requisition. A new Administrative Assistant issued this purchase requisition and was not properly trained on obtaining Governor?s signature for all purchase requisitions greater than $5,000. It should be noted that Governor signed the check related to this expenditure so was able to see the purchase at that time. The Office also acknowledges a revision was not made to a $365 purchase requisition when an additional purchase was added to the approved purchase requisition.
Federal Programs Information: Funding Agency: Department of Health and Human Services Title: Head Start Assistance Listing Number: 93.600 Award Period: September 1, 2021 ? August 31, 2022, September 1, 2022 ? August 31, 2023 Funding Agency: Department of Health and Human Services Title: Indian Self-Determination Assistance Listing Number: 93.441 Award Period: January 1, 2022 ? December 31, 2024 Criteria: The Office?s policies and procedures contains various requirements, including policies requiring certain levels of administrative and legal review, obtaining one or more written bids at various dollar thresholds, and requiring different levels of approval based on dollar values. Uniform Guidance regulations section CFR 200.318(a) and CFR 200.320(a) state, the non-Federal entity must use its own documented procurement procedures which reflect applicable State, local, and tribal laws and regulations, provided that the procurement conform to applicable Federal law and the standards identified. Condition: For Head Start, in our selected sample of 41 expenditures, we noted an expenditure of $208,932 that required either a sole source form or three written bids, and a legal review per the Office?s policy. These forms were not obtained. There was sole source justification; however, it was written by the vendor. The Tribal Council approved the purchase, but the resolution didn?t mention the vendor and/or the need to sole source the purchase. For Indian Self-Determination, in our selected sample of 40 expenditures, we noted an expenditure of $7,772 that did not have the required three written bids, an expenditure for $15,331 that did not have the required governor?s signature, and an expenditure that was approved for $365 but was later revised to $640 without any additional approvals. Questioned Costs: None. Context: 4 of 81 transactions tested across these two programs were missing documentation required by the Office?s procurement policy. Cause: The Office?s policies and procedures were not always being enforced or being followed. Additionally, the Office?s procurement policy requires sole source documentation for certain expenditures and contracts where the bidding process is bypassed, but the Office has not developed such a form. Effect: The Office was not in compliance with procurement standards and made payments during the year that were in violation of their policy. Auditors? Recommendation: We recommend the Office adhere to the procurement policy that it has developed, and we recommend a sole source form be generated that conforms to the requirements of the procurement policy. Management?s Response: For Head Start ? The Office?s procurement policy allows for sole source procurement if Tribal Council specifically authorizes its use. For the Head Start expenditure of $208,932, Tribal Council Resolution 08-2021-36 specifically approved this expenditure. The Office?s procurement policy does reference a sole source form. However, a sole source form was never created when the procurement policy was approved by Tribal Council. Therefore, a memo justifying the sole source procurement was accepted as sufficient documentation and justification of the sole source procurement. Because this was a sole source procurement, three written bids were not required. Also, legal review is not required for this expenditure because it is a purchase of goods. Legal review is only required for purchase of services above a certain threshold. The Office is in the process of updating its procurement policy and will create a sole source justification form in connection with the update. For Indian Self-Determination ? The Office acknowledges the lack of three written bids for a $7,772 expenditure. Only one written quote was obtained for this purchase. The Office also acknowledges the lack of Governor?s signature on a $15,331 purchase requisition. A new Administrative Assistant issued this purchase requisition and was not properly trained on obtaining Governor?s signature for all purchase requisitions greater than $5,000. It should be noted that Governor signed the check related to this expenditure so was able to see the purchase at that time. The Office also acknowledges a revision was not made to a $365 purchase requisition when an additional purchase was added to the approved purchase requisition.
2022-001 Methods of Procurement Federal Agency: United States Department of Treasury Federal Program Name: Coronavirus State and Local Recovery Funds (CSLRF) Assistance Listing Number: 21.027 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: SLT-8694, 2021 Award Period: March 3, 2021 to December 31, 2025 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control Over Compliance Criteria: 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Award requires compliance with the provisions of federal procurement guidelines. US Code ? 200.320 states that the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of ? 200.320 and ?? 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or sub-award. Condition: The County entered into a noncompetitive procurement contract with a vendor under specific circumstances for an emergency procurement. The County did not document the justification or approval of the noncompetitive emergency procurement. The County?s internal procurement policies state that deviations from standard purchasing procedures must be authorized and all such deviations will be documented and all emergency purchases shall be in a report to the Board of County Commissioners at its next regular Commission meeting. Context: One of five procurement contracts tested did not contain appropriate documentation supporting federal procurement requirements. Cause: The County did not follow their procurement policies and procedures to properly document the justification and approval of an emergency procurement transaction that was made using federal funding and requirements for noncompetitive emergency procurements. Effect: By not following federal regulations and the County?s procurement policy, the County could improperly enter into a contract that violates the requirements of CFR ? 200.320. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend that the County review their policies and procedures to ensure that they are operating in a manner that follows federal procurement requirements and the County?s procurement policy. The creation and use of a standard procurement checklist would assist the County in documenting all requirements for each procurement that is entered into. Views of Responsible Officials: The Finance Department will work with County Management and Board Departments to ensure familiarity and understanding of the County?s procurement policies and procedures. Additionally, the County is working towards the implementation of a financial system which will improve the controls in place to help ensure compliance with procurement requirements. The Finance Department is also working on a financial policies document and will would with County Manager on a review of the County?s procurement policy.
Significant Deficiency 2 CFR ? 2400.101 gives regulatory effect to the Department of Housing and Urban Development for 2 CFR ? 200.302 (b) (6) and (7) which requires the Authority to establish written procedures for determining the allowability of costs in accordance with Subpart E - Cost Principles and the terms and conditions of the Federal award and establish written procedures to implement the requirements of ? 305 Payment. Additionally, 2 C.F.R. ? 2400.101 gives regulatory effect to the Department of Housing and Urban Development for 2 C.F.R. ? 200.318(a) which states the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in ?? 200.317 through 200.327. Although the Authority did have written standard operating procedures requiring purchase orders, they did not have an approved purchase order or contract on file for 2 of the 50 purchases tested. Failure to have proper controls in place to ensure policies and procedures are being followed could result in unallowable costs and procurement noncompliance. The Authority should follow their written standard operating procedures and implement controls to ensure allowability of costs and procurement in accordance with federal grants.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Federal Program Title: Public and Indian Housing Assistance Listing Number: 14.850 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: LA003, 2022 Award Period: 10/1/21-9/30/22 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or Specific Requirement: Non-federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They 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. A non-federal entity must: 1. Meet the general procurement standards in 2 CFR section 200.318, which include oversight of contractors? performance, maintaining written standards of conduct for employees involved in contracting, awarding contracts only to responsible contractors, and maintaining records to document history of procurements. 2. Conduct all procurement transactions in a manner providing full and open competition, in accordance with 2 CFR section 200.319. Use the micro-purchase and small purchase methods only for procurements that meet the applicable criteria under 2 CFR sections 200.320(a) (1) and (2). Under the micropurchase method, the aggregate dollar amount does not exceed $10,000 ($2,000 in the case of acquisition for construction subject to the Wage Rate Requirements (Davis-Bacon Act)). Small purchase procedures are used for purchases that exceed the micro-purchase amount but do not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold ($250,000). Micropurchases may be awarded without soliciting competitive quotations if the non-federal entity considers the price to be reasonable (2 CFR section 200.320(a)). If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources (2 CFR section 200.320(b)). 3. For acquisitions exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold, the non-federal entity must use one of the following procurement methods: the sealed bid method if the acquisition meets the criteria in 2 CFR section 200.320(b); the competitive proposals method under the conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320((b) (2); or the noncompetitive proposals method (i.e., solicit a proposal from only one source) but only when one or more of four circumstances are met, in accordance with 2 CFR section 200.320(c)). 4. Perform a cost or price analysis in connection with every procurement action in excess of the simplified acquisition threshold, including contract modifications (2 CFR section 200.323(a)). The cost plus a percentage of cost and percentage of construction cost methods of contracting must not be used (2 CFR section 200.323(b)). 5. Ensure that every purchase order or other contract includes applicable provisions required by 2 CFR section 200.326. These provisions are described in Appendix II to 2 CFR Part 200, ?Contract Provisions for Non-Federal Entity Contracts Under Federal Awards.? When a non-federal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the nonfederal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. This verification may be accomplished by (1) checking the System for Award Management (SAM) Exclusions maintained by the General Services Administration (GSA) and available at SAM.gov Home (click on Search Record, then click on Advanced Search Exclusions) (Note: The OMB guidance at 2 CFR Part 180 and agency implementing regulations still refer to the SAM Exclusions as the Excluded Parties List System (EPLS)), (2) collecting a certification from the entity, or (3) adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that entity (2 CFR section 180.300). Condition: During testing, it was noted that the Authority did not have adequate internal controls over procurement and suspension and debarment requirements. Questioned Costs: $135,749 Context: During testing of a sample of 7 contracts, it was noted that 7 contracts did not comply with compliance requirements. The sample was a statistically valid sample. ? For 2 contracts tested, the Authority was unable to provide a copy of the contract, or documentation to support the contract was properly procured. ? For 3 contracts tested, the Authority was unable to provide documentation to support that a cost analysis was performed prior to entering the contract. ? For all 7 contracts tested, the Authority was unable to provide documentation that it ensured the vendor was not suspended or debarred before entering into the contract. Cause: The Authority failed to maintain proper documentation of contracts and procurement procedures to evidence compliance. Effect: The Authority is not in compliance with federal regulations regarding procurement of contracts, which could lead to vendors receiving funds that are not properly vetted. Recommendation: We recommend that the Authority reviews it?s procurement policy and active contracts and future contracts to ensure that all policies and procedures regarding procurement of contracts are properly followed and documented. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Criteria: 2 CFR Part 200 in general and 2 CFR section 200.332 require non-Federal entities to establish and maintain effective internal controls over Federal awards, including the requirements for allowable costs, cost principles, reporting, and suspension and debarment. The related compliance requirements are set in 2 CFR Part 200 sections 200.514(c), 200.212, 200.318(h), 180.300 and subpart E; 48 CFR section 52.209-6; 31 CFR section 19.300; sections 602 and 603 of the Social Security Act as added by section 9901 of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, Pub. L. No. 117-2 as codified at 42 USC 802 and 803 and 31 CFR Part 35, federal awarding agency regulations, and the terms and conditions of the award. Condition: Controls related to calculation and reporting of lost revenue were not effective and the amount calculated as base year revenue was incorrectly reported. Controls related to reporting of other grant expenditures were not effective and certain amounts were missing from the financial reports. Controls related to ensuring contractors were not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded pursuant to 31 CFR section 19.300 were not documented in a manner that is reperformable. Cause: Base year calculation of revenue was performed using interim financial information and was not reconciled to final audited reports. Base year calculation of revenue was not clearly documented. Subsequent year revenue calculations were performed by a consultant who was not engaged to review the base year calculation. Controls over such calculations were not effective. Review of financial reports was not sufficient to ensure all grant expenditures were reported. Suspension and debarment controls were not evidenced with clear documentation; checklists are maintained but were not completed in all cases. Effect: Calculation of lost revenue was incorrectly reported. Expenditures related to the provision of government services related to such lost revenue did not exceed the actual lost revenue. Certain other grant expenditures were erroneously excluded from the financial reports. Procurement of contractors risks including those who were suspended or debarred; however none such were identified. Recommendation: We recommend that the City ensure that all controls for grants be documented in written procedures which should include the name or title of the positions responsible for each control (preparation, review, reconciliation, etc.) and that the performance of the controls be documented in a clear, reperformable manner including the name and date of each responsible individual and which specific control they performed over compliance for the grant.
Federal Agency: U.S. Small Business Administration Federal Program: 59.075 Shuttered Venue Operators Program Grant Period: Year ended September 30, 2022 Criteria: 2 CFR 200.302(b)(7), 2 CFR 200.318(c)(1) Condition: Written policies and procedures for the determination of allowable of costs, conflicts of interest, and procedures for procurement transactions surrounding federal awards were not available. Cause: Unfamiliarity with requirements stated in 2 CFR 200 of the Uniform Guidance. Potential Effect: Instances of noncompliance with direct and material compliance requirements may occur. Repeat Finding: No Management?s Response and Planned Corrective Action: In the event of receipt of future Federal Awards, management and the board of directors will work towards developing a Federal Award Policy and Procedure Manual to be used for federal awards management. Responsible Person: Tim Stephens, Executive Director
Information on the Federal Program: Program Name: Congressional Appropriations Program Federal Agency: United States Department of Treasury AL Number/Name: 21.U01 NeighborWorks? System Program FY 2022 Appropriation 21.U04 COVID-19 American Rescue Plan Criteria: According to 2 CFR ? 200.318(a), General Procurement Standards, the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State and local laws and regulations, 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 the Uniform Guidance. In addition, 2 CFR ?200.318(i) states that the non-federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of the procurement. These records are required to include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. All procurement transactions must be conducted in a manner providing full and open competition consistent with ?200.319 and must be performed using the appropriate procurement method as outlined in ?200.320. Furthermore, 2 CFR ?200.320(c), Noncompetitive Procurement, states that there are specific circumstances in which noncompetitive procurement can be used. Noncompetitive procurement can only be awarded if one or more of the following circumstances apply: (1) The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which does not exceed the micro-purchase threshold; (2) The item is available only from a single source; (3) The public exigency or emergency for the requirement will not permit a delay resulting from publicizing a competitive solicitation; (4) The Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity expressly authorizes a noncompetitive procurement in response to a written request from the non-Federal entity; or (5) After solicitation of a number of sources, competition is determined inadequate. Condition: During our review of the Corporation?s procurement policies, we noted that the Corporation?s written internal procurement policies and procedures are not in conformity with the requirements identified in the Uniform Guidance procurement requirements. During our testing of the procurement, suspension and debarment compliance requirement, we selected 54 procurement samples for testing. We noted that 12 out of the 54 procurement samples were procured by way of a noncompetitive proposal process through a solicitation from only one source under the criteria of either: (1) the item is available only from a single source or (2) there is an urgent and compelling need for the goods or services. However, based on our review of the 12 procurement files, we noted that all of the 12 procurement files do not appropriately justify the use of a noncompetitive procurement process due to the following reasons: 1. The supplies or services being procured are sold or provided by other vendors, not just by a single source. 2. Incumbency of the vendor is not a valid noncompetitive procurement justification. 3. Contracting without providing for full and open competition shall not be justified on the basis of (1) lack of advance planning by the requiring activity; or (2) concerns related to the amount of funds available for the acquisition of supplies or services. Cause: The Corporation?s personnel did not adhere to the federal requirements and the Corporation?s internal procurement policies and procedures particularly on the use of noncompetitive procurements. Effect: Failure to perform procurement procedures in accordance with the Corporation?s documented policies and the procurement procedures under the Uniform Guidance procurement requirements could result in expenditures incurred being disallowed. Questioned Costs: Not determinable. Context: This is a condition identified per review of the Corporation?s compliance with the specified requirements using a non-statistical sample. The total federal expenditures related to the 12 noncompetitive procurements is $2,786,980 for the year ended September 30, 2022. The total contract value of the 12 noncompetitive procurements is $13,507,008 with contract terms that ranges from 3 to 5 years. The total federal expenditures for all of the 54 procurement samples selected for testing is $9,409,871 from a total population of expenditures subject to procurement of $15,481,554 for the year ended September 30, 2022. Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend that the Corporation update its current procurement policies and procedures to conform with the requirements identified in the Uniform Guidance procurement requirements. In addition, the Corporation should ensure that the use of the Noncompetitive Procurement criteria under the Uniform Guidance procurement requirements are adhered to and appropriate justifications for these contracts are used and documented appropriately. Finally, the Corporation should have a system in place to track and monitor the terms of vendor contracts in order to plan in advance if the contracts will need to be subject to a competitive procurement process providing full and open competition as required. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding and recommendations set forth within and has developed a corrective action plan to address the instances of noncompliance identified and lapses in prescribed internal controls.
Information on the Federal Program: Program Name: Congressional Appropriations Program Federal Agency: United States Department of Treasury AL Number/Name: 21.U01 NeighborWorks? System Program FY 2022 Appropriation 21.U04 COVID-19 American Rescue Plan Criteria: According to 2 CFR ? 200.318(a), General Procurement Standards, the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State and local laws and regulations, 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 the Uniform Guidance. In addition, 2 CFR ?200.318(i) states that the non-federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of the procurement. These records are required to include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. All procurement transactions must be conducted in a manner providing full and open competition consistent with ?200.319 and must be performed using the appropriate procurement method as outlined in ?200.320. Furthermore, 2 CFR ?200.320(c), Noncompetitive Procurement, states that there are specific circumstances in which noncompetitive procurement can be used. Noncompetitive procurement can only be awarded if one or more of the following circumstances apply: (1) The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which does not exceed the micro-purchase threshold; (2) The item is available only from a single source; (3) The public exigency or emergency for the requirement will not permit a delay resulting from publicizing a competitive solicitation; (4) The Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity expressly authorizes a noncompetitive procurement in response to a written request from the non-Federal entity; or (5) After solicitation of a number of sources, competition is determined inadequate. Condition: During our review of the Corporation?s procurement policies, we noted that the Corporation?s written internal procurement policies and procedures are not in conformity with the requirements identified in the Uniform Guidance procurement requirements. During our testing of the procurement, suspension and debarment compliance requirement, we selected 54 procurement samples for testing. We noted that 12 out of the 54 procurement samples were procured by way of a noncompetitive proposal process through a solicitation from only one source under the criteria of either: (1) the item is available only from a single source or (2) there is an urgent and compelling need for the goods or services. However, based on our review of the 12 procurement files, we noted that all of the 12 procurement files do not appropriately justify the use of a noncompetitive procurement process due to the following reasons: 1. The supplies or services being procured are sold or provided by other vendors, not just by a single source. 2. Incumbency of the vendor is not a valid noncompetitive procurement justification. 3. Contracting without providing for full and open competition shall not be justified on the basis of (1) lack of advance planning by the requiring activity; or (2) concerns related to the amount of funds available for the acquisition of supplies or services. Cause: The Corporation?s personnel did not adhere to the federal requirements and the Corporation?s internal procurement policies and procedures particularly on the use of noncompetitive procurements. Effect: Failure to perform procurement procedures in accordance with the Corporation?s documented policies and the procurement procedures under the Uniform Guidance procurement requirements could result in expenditures incurred being disallowed. Questioned Costs: Not determinable. Context: This is a condition identified per review of the Corporation?s compliance with the specified requirements using a non-statistical sample. The total federal expenditures related to the 12 noncompetitive procurements is $2,786,980 for the year ended September 30, 2022. The total contract value of the 12 noncompetitive procurements is $13,507,008 with contract terms that ranges from 3 to 5 years. The total federal expenditures for all of the 54 procurement samples selected for testing is $9,409,871 from a total population of expenditures subject to procurement of $15,481,554 for the year ended September 30, 2022. Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend that the Corporation update its current procurement policies and procedures to conform with the requirements identified in the Uniform Guidance procurement requirements. In addition, the Corporation should ensure that the use of the Noncompetitive Procurement criteria under the Uniform Guidance procurement requirements are adhered to and appropriate justifications for these contracts are used and documented appropriately. Finally, the Corporation should have a system in place to track and monitor the terms of vendor contracts in order to plan in advance if the contracts will need to be subject to a competitive procurement process providing full and open competition as required. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding and recommendations set forth within and has developed a corrective action plan to address the instances of noncompliance identified and lapses in prescribed internal controls.
Section III ? Federal Award Findings Finding 2022-002 Lack of Internal Control Over Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Department of the Treasury Federal Programs: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds ALN: 21.027 Award Numbers: SLFRP2526 and SLFRP4713 Award Years: 2021 Type of Finding: Significant deficiency in internal control and noncompliance. Criteria: In accordance with 2 CFR sections 200.318 to 200.325, procurement policies must be in place to ensure the Tribe is promoting full and open competition consistent with the standards of these sections. In order to ensure objective contractor performance and eliminate unfair competitive advantage, contractors that develop or draft specifications, requirements, statements of work, or invitations for bids or requests for proposals must be excluded from competing for such procurements. Condition and Context: Management could not provide adequate procurement documentation for the purchase of a large piece of equipment. During our testing of allowable costs charged to the program we noted one transaction out of twenty-nine tested that lacked adequate supporting documentation related to procurement. Cause: Lack of internal controls over procurement. Effect: Failure to follow compliance requirements could result in loss of federal funding or questioned costs being incurred. Questioned Costs: None noted. The price for the piece of equipment did not seem unreasonable; however, we were unable to determine if the Tribe received the lowest price possible due to lack of procurement documentation. Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend that management establish a procurement policy and ensure that the policy is followed for all large purchases. Management?s Response: Management concurs with this finding. See corrective action plan.
Section III ? Federal Award Findings Finding 2022-002 Lack of Internal Control Over Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Department of the Treasury Federal Programs: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds ALN: 21.027 Award Numbers: SLFRP2526 and SLFRP4713 Award Years: 2021 Type of Finding: Significant deficiency in internal control and noncompliance. Criteria: In accordance with 2 CFR sections 200.318 to 200.325, procurement policies must be in place to ensure the Tribe is promoting full and open competition consistent with the standards of these sections. In order to ensure objective contractor performance and eliminate unfair competitive advantage, contractors that develop or draft specifications, requirements, statements of work, or invitations for bids or requests for proposals must be excluded from competing for such procurements. Condition and Context: Management could not provide adequate procurement documentation for the purchase of a large piece of equipment. During our testing of allowable costs charged to the program we noted one transaction out of twenty-nine tested that lacked adequate supporting documentation related to procurement. Cause: Lack of internal controls over procurement. Effect: Failure to follow compliance requirements could result in loss of federal funding or questioned costs being incurred. Questioned Costs: None noted. The price for the piece of equipment did not seem unreasonable; however, we were unable to determine if the Tribe received the lowest price possible due to lack of procurement documentation. Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend that management establish a procurement policy and ensure that the policy is followed for all large purchases. Management?s Response: Management concurs with this finding. See corrective action plan.
SIGNIFICANT DEFICIENCY U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 2022-001 Title III Aging Cluster: Title III B Supportive Services CFDA 93.044 Title III C Nutrition Services CFDA 93.045 Title III C Nutrition Services Incentive CFDA 93.053 Grant period ? year ended September 30, 2023 Condition: The Organization did not have a written procurement policy to properly implement all the requirements of 2 CFR Section 200.318 through 200.326 of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance). Criteria: In accordance with 2 CFR Section 200.319(c), non-federal entities must have written procedures for procurement transactions. Such policy should incorporate all requirements within 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326 of the Uniform Guidance. Cause: The Organization?s procurement policy does not incorporate all the requirements of 2 CFR Section 200.318 through 200.326 of the Uniform Guidance. Effect: An important component of internal controls is the existence of operating policies and procedures and that they are clearly understood and communicated. Without clear written policies and procedures, there is a higher risk of noncompliance with program compliance requirements. Recommendation: Management should continue to develop comprehensive written policies and procedures to administer all federal programs. Current written policies should be evaluated for inclusion of and compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and will adopt written policies to comply with Uniform Guidance requirements.
SIGNIFICANT DEFICIENCY U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 2022-001 Title III Aging Cluster: Title III B Supportive Services CFDA 93.044 Title III C Nutrition Services CFDA 93.045 Title III C Nutrition Services Incentive CFDA 93.053 Grant period ? year ended September 30, 2023 Condition: The Organization did not have a written procurement policy to properly implement all the requirements of 2 CFR Section 200.318 through 200.326 of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance). Criteria: In accordance with 2 CFR Section 200.319(c), non-federal entities must have written procedures for procurement transactions. Such policy should incorporate all requirements within 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326 of the Uniform Guidance. Cause: The Organization?s procurement policy does not incorporate all the requirements of 2 CFR Section 200.318 through 200.326 of the Uniform Guidance. Effect: An important component of internal controls is the existence of operating policies and procedures and that they are clearly understood and communicated. Without clear written policies and procedures, there is a higher risk of noncompliance with program compliance requirements. Recommendation: Management should continue to develop comprehensive written policies and procedures to administer all federal programs. Current written policies should be evaluated for inclusion of and compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and will adopt written policies to comply with Uniform Guidance requirements.
SIGNIFICANT DEFICIENCY U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 2022-001 Title III Aging Cluster: Title III B Supportive Services CFDA 93.044 Title III C Nutrition Services CFDA 93.045 Title III C Nutrition Services Incentive CFDA 93.053 Grant period ? year ended September 30, 2023 Condition: The Organization did not have a written procurement policy to properly implement all the requirements of 2 CFR Section 200.318 through 200.326 of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance). Criteria: In accordance with 2 CFR Section 200.319(c), non-federal entities must have written procedures for procurement transactions. Such policy should incorporate all requirements within 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326 of the Uniform Guidance. Cause: The Organization?s procurement policy does not incorporate all the requirements of 2 CFR Section 200.318 through 200.326 of the Uniform Guidance. Effect: An important component of internal controls is the existence of operating policies and procedures and that they are clearly understood and communicated. Without clear written policies and procedures, there is a higher risk of noncompliance with program compliance requirements. Recommendation: Management should continue to develop comprehensive written policies and procedures to administer all federal programs. Current written policies should be evaluated for inclusion of and compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and will adopt written policies to comply with Uniform Guidance requirements.
SIGNIFICANT DEFICIENCY U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 2022-001 Title III Aging Cluster: Title III B Supportive Services CFDA 93.044 Title III C Nutrition Services CFDA 93.045 Title III C Nutrition Services Incentive CFDA 93.053 Grant period ? year ended September 30, 2023 Condition: The Organization did not have a written procurement policy to properly implement all the requirements of 2 CFR Section 200.318 through 200.326 of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance). Criteria: In accordance with 2 CFR Section 200.319(c), non-federal entities must have written procedures for procurement transactions. Such policy should incorporate all requirements within 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326 of the Uniform Guidance. Cause: The Organization?s procurement policy does not incorporate all the requirements of 2 CFR Section 200.318 through 200.326 of the Uniform Guidance. Effect: An important component of internal controls is the existence of operating policies and procedures and that they are clearly understood and communicated. Without clear written policies and procedures, there is a higher risk of noncompliance with program compliance requirements. Recommendation: Management should continue to develop comprehensive written policies and procedures to administer all federal programs. Current written policies should be evaluated for inclusion of and compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and will adopt written policies to comply with Uniform Guidance requirements.
SIGNIFICANT DEFICIENCY U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 2022-001 Title III Aging Cluster: Title III B Supportive Services CFDA 93.044 Title III C Nutrition Services CFDA 93.045 Title III C Nutrition Services Incentive CFDA 93.053 Grant period ? year ended September 30, 2023 Condition: The Organization did not have a written procurement policy to properly implement all the requirements of 2 CFR Section 200.318 through 200.326 of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance). Criteria: In accordance with 2 CFR Section 200.319(c), non-federal entities must have written procedures for procurement transactions. Such policy should incorporate all requirements within 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326 of the Uniform Guidance. Cause: The Organization?s procurement policy does not incorporate all the requirements of 2 CFR Section 200.318 through 200.326 of the Uniform Guidance. Effect: An important component of internal controls is the existence of operating policies and procedures and that they are clearly understood and communicated. Without clear written policies and procedures, there is a higher risk of noncompliance with program compliance requirements. Recommendation: Management should continue to develop comprehensive written policies and procedures to administer all federal programs. Current written policies should be evaluated for inclusion of and compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and will adopt written policies to comply with Uniform Guidance requirements.
SIGNIFICANT DEFICIENCY U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 2022-001 Title III Aging Cluster: Title III B Supportive Services CFDA 93.044 Title III C Nutrition Services CFDA 93.045 Title III C Nutrition Services Incentive CFDA 93.053 Grant period ? year ended September 30, 2023 Condition: The Organization did not have a written procurement policy to properly implement all the requirements of 2 CFR Section 200.318 through 200.326 of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance). Criteria: In accordance with 2 CFR Section 200.319(c), non-federal entities must have written procedures for procurement transactions. Such policy should incorporate all requirements within 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326 of the Uniform Guidance. Cause: The Organization?s procurement policy does not incorporate all the requirements of 2 CFR Section 200.318 through 200.326 of the Uniform Guidance. Effect: An important component of internal controls is the existence of operating policies and procedures and that they are clearly understood and communicated. Without clear written policies and procedures, there is a higher risk of noncompliance with program compliance requirements. Recommendation: Management should continue to develop comprehensive written policies and procedures to administer all federal programs. Current written policies should be evaluated for inclusion of and compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and will adopt written policies to comply with Uniform Guidance requirements.
SIGNIFICANT DEFICIENCY U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 2022-001 Title III Aging Cluster: Title III B Supportive Services CFDA 93.044 Title III C Nutrition Services CFDA 93.045 Title III C Nutrition Services Incentive CFDA 93.053 Grant period ? year ended September 30, 2023 Condition: The Organization did not have a written procurement policy to properly implement all the requirements of 2 CFR Section 200.318 through 200.326 of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance). Criteria: In accordance with 2 CFR Section 200.319(c), non-federal entities must have written procedures for procurement transactions. Such policy should incorporate all requirements within 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326 of the Uniform Guidance. Cause: The Organization?s procurement policy does not incorporate all the requirements of 2 CFR Section 200.318 through 200.326 of the Uniform Guidance. Effect: An important component of internal controls is the existence of operating policies and procedures and that they are clearly understood and communicated. Without clear written policies and procedures, there is a higher risk of noncompliance with program compliance requirements. Recommendation: Management should continue to develop comprehensive written policies and procedures to administer all federal programs. Current written policies should be evaluated for inclusion of and compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and will adopt written policies to comply with Uniform Guidance requirements.
2022-002?Procurement Federal program information: Funding agency: All Title: All ALN: All Award year and number: All Pass-through entity (if applicable): All Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They 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. According to BRINM?s Purchasing SOP?s, project purchase requests exceeding a value of $25,000 require obtaining three bids. Purchase orders are created for approved project purchase requests and reviewed and signed by the Executive Director or Assistant Director before it can be issued to a vendor. Condition: During fiscal year 2022, BRINM paid a vendor $93,808 for services related to a project. There is no evidence that three bids were obtained for selection of this vendor. Additionally, there was not an approved purchase order for one of the three invoices paid to this vendor. Questioned Costs: None Context: One of 25 nonpayroll transactions tested. Additionally, one of four vendors/subawards tested that were paid over $25,000 during fiscal year 2022. Cause: BRINM?s Grants Manager, who was responsible for all records related to purchasing, accounts payable, and credit cards, resigned in November 2021 without filing many documents. Evidence of bids obtained for use of this vendor could not be located. Effect: Procurement of vendors does not comply with BRINM SOP?s and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Auditor?s Recommendations: BRINM should implement its approved SOP?s as referenced above to ensure that purchasing SOP?s are implemented and selection of vendors is adequately documented. Management?s Response: Current Management is not able to confirm nor deny that appropriate documentation was not collected prior to payment but highly doubts that it was not collected based on the reliability of the previous Grants Manager. Management notes that the vendor was specifically mentioned in the Grant submission. Management will ensure that purchasing SOP are implemented and selection of vendors is adequately documented. Management has secured a project management software that will retain project documentation. This should ensure appropriate documentation is collected and available to all Management for the life of the project, until date of destruction.
2022-002?Procurement Federal program information: Funding agency: All Title: All ALN: All Award year and number: All Pass-through entity (if applicable): All Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They 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. According to BRINM?s Purchasing SOP?s, project purchase requests exceeding a value of $25,000 require obtaining three bids. Purchase orders are created for approved project purchase requests and reviewed and signed by the Executive Director or Assistant Director before it can be issued to a vendor. Condition: During fiscal year 2022, BRINM paid a vendor $93,808 for services related to a project. There is no evidence that three bids were obtained for selection of this vendor. Additionally, there was not an approved purchase order for one of the three invoices paid to this vendor. Questioned Costs: None Context: One of 25 nonpayroll transactions tested. Additionally, one of four vendors/subawards tested that were paid over $25,000 during fiscal year 2022. Cause: BRINM?s Grants Manager, who was responsible for all records related to purchasing, accounts payable, and credit cards, resigned in November 2021 without filing many documents. Evidence of bids obtained for use of this vendor could not be located. Effect: Procurement of vendors does not comply with BRINM SOP?s and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Auditor?s Recommendations: BRINM should implement its approved SOP?s as referenced above to ensure that purchasing SOP?s are implemented and selection of vendors is adequately documented. Management?s Response: Current Management is not able to confirm nor deny that appropriate documentation was not collected prior to payment but highly doubts that it was not collected based on the reliability of the previous Grants Manager. Management notes that the vendor was specifically mentioned in the Grant submission. Management will ensure that purchasing SOP are implemented and selection of vendors is adequately documented. Management has secured a project management software that will retain project documentation. This should ensure appropriate documentation is collected and available to all Management for the life of the project, until date of destruction.
2022-002?Procurement Federal program information: Funding agency: All Title: All ALN: All Award year and number: All Pass-through entity (if applicable): All Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They 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. According to BRINM?s Purchasing SOP?s, project purchase requests exceeding a value of $25,000 require obtaining three bids. Purchase orders are created for approved project purchase requests and reviewed and signed by the Executive Director or Assistant Director before it can be issued to a vendor. Condition: During fiscal year 2022, BRINM paid a vendor $93,808 for services related to a project. There is no evidence that three bids were obtained for selection of this vendor. Additionally, there was not an approved purchase order for one of the three invoices paid to this vendor. Questioned Costs: None Context: One of 25 nonpayroll transactions tested. Additionally, one of four vendors/subawards tested that were paid over $25,000 during fiscal year 2022. Cause: BRINM?s Grants Manager, who was responsible for all records related to purchasing, accounts payable, and credit cards, resigned in November 2021 without filing many documents. Evidence of bids obtained for use of this vendor could not be located. Effect: Procurement of vendors does not comply with BRINM SOP?s and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Auditor?s Recommendations: BRINM should implement its approved SOP?s as referenced above to ensure that purchasing SOP?s are implemented and selection of vendors is adequately documented. Management?s Response: Current Management is not able to confirm nor deny that appropriate documentation was not collected prior to payment but highly doubts that it was not collected based on the reliability of the previous Grants Manager. Management notes that the vendor was specifically mentioned in the Grant submission. Management will ensure that purchasing SOP are implemented and selection of vendors is adequately documented. Management has secured a project management software that will retain project documentation. This should ensure appropriate documentation is collected and available to all Management for the life of the project, until date of destruction.
2022-002?Procurement Federal program information: Funding agency: All Title: All ALN: All Award year and number: All Pass-through entity (if applicable): All Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They 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. According to BRINM?s Purchasing SOP?s, project purchase requests exceeding a value of $25,000 require obtaining three bids. Purchase orders are created for approved project purchase requests and reviewed and signed by the Executive Director or Assistant Director before it can be issued to a vendor. Condition: During fiscal year 2022, BRINM paid a vendor $93,808 for services related to a project. There is no evidence that three bids were obtained for selection of this vendor. Additionally, there was not an approved purchase order for one of the three invoices paid to this vendor. Questioned Costs: None Context: One of 25 nonpayroll transactions tested. Additionally, one of four vendors/subawards tested that were paid over $25,000 during fiscal year 2022. Cause: BRINM?s Grants Manager, who was responsible for all records related to purchasing, accounts payable, and credit cards, resigned in November 2021 without filing many documents. Evidence of bids obtained for use of this vendor could not be located. Effect: Procurement of vendors does not comply with BRINM SOP?s and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Auditor?s Recommendations: BRINM should implement its approved SOP?s as referenced above to ensure that purchasing SOP?s are implemented and selection of vendors is adequately documented. Management?s Response: Current Management is not able to confirm nor deny that appropriate documentation was not collected prior to payment but highly doubts that it was not collected based on the reliability of the previous Grants Manager. Management notes that the vendor was specifically mentioned in the Grant submission. Management will ensure that purchasing SOP are implemented and selection of vendors is adequately documented. Management has secured a project management software that will retain project documentation. This should ensure appropriate documentation is collected and available to all Management for the life of the project, until date of destruction.
2022-002?Procurement Federal program information: Funding agency: All Title: All ALN: All Award year and number: All Pass-through entity (if applicable): All Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They 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. According to BRINM?s Purchasing SOP?s, project purchase requests exceeding a value of $25,000 require obtaining three bids. Purchase orders are created for approved project purchase requests and reviewed and signed by the Executive Director or Assistant Director before it can be issued to a vendor. Condition: During fiscal year 2022, BRINM paid a vendor $93,808 for services related to a project. There is no evidence that three bids were obtained for selection of this vendor. Additionally, there was not an approved purchase order for one of the three invoices paid to this vendor. Questioned Costs: None Context: One of 25 nonpayroll transactions tested. Additionally, one of four vendors/subawards tested that were paid over $25,000 during fiscal year 2022. Cause: BRINM?s Grants Manager, who was responsible for all records related to purchasing, accounts payable, and credit cards, resigned in November 2021 without filing many documents. Evidence of bids obtained for use of this vendor could not be located. Effect: Procurement of vendors does not comply with BRINM SOP?s and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Auditor?s Recommendations: BRINM should implement its approved SOP?s as referenced above to ensure that purchasing SOP?s are implemented and selection of vendors is adequately documented. Management?s Response: Current Management is not able to confirm nor deny that appropriate documentation was not collected prior to payment but highly doubts that it was not collected based on the reliability of the previous Grants Manager. Management notes that the vendor was specifically mentioned in the Grant submission. Management will ensure that purchasing SOP are implemented and selection of vendors is adequately documented. Management has secured a project management software that will retain project documentation. This should ensure appropriate documentation is collected and available to all Management for the life of the project, until date of destruction.
2022-002?Procurement Federal program information: Funding agency: All Title: All ALN: All Award year and number: All Pass-through entity (if applicable): All Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They 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. According to BRINM?s Purchasing SOP?s, project purchase requests exceeding a value of $25,000 require obtaining three bids. Purchase orders are created for approved project purchase requests and reviewed and signed by the Executive Director or Assistant Director before it can be issued to a vendor. Condition: During fiscal year 2022, BRINM paid a vendor $93,808 for services related to a project. There is no evidence that three bids were obtained for selection of this vendor. Additionally, there was not an approved purchase order for one of the three invoices paid to this vendor. Questioned Costs: None Context: One of 25 nonpayroll transactions tested. Additionally, one of four vendors/subawards tested that were paid over $25,000 during fiscal year 2022. Cause: BRINM?s Grants Manager, who was responsible for all records related to purchasing, accounts payable, and credit cards, resigned in November 2021 without filing many documents. Evidence of bids obtained for use of this vendor could not be located. Effect: Procurement of vendors does not comply with BRINM SOP?s and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Auditor?s Recommendations: BRINM should implement its approved SOP?s as referenced above to ensure that purchasing SOP?s are implemented and selection of vendors is adequately documented. Management?s Response: Current Management is not able to confirm nor deny that appropriate documentation was not collected prior to payment but highly doubts that it was not collected based on the reliability of the previous Grants Manager. Management notes that the vendor was specifically mentioned in the Grant submission. Management will ensure that purchasing SOP are implemented and selection of vendors is adequately documented. Management has secured a project management software that will retain project documentation. This should ensure appropriate documentation is collected and available to all Management for the life of the project, until date of destruction.
2022-003 Internal Controls over Compliance and Compliance with Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Requirement Information on the Federal Program: United States Agency for International Development Assistance Listing Number: 98.001 Assistance Listing Name: USAID Foreign Assistance for Programs Overseas Grant Award Number(s): Direct Award Number Award Period 720BHA21GR00063 March 29, 2021 through April 27, 2023 7200AA18CA00060 September 28, 2018 through September 27, 2025 72061318CA00001 January 9, 2018 through December 31, 2022 Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR ?200.318(a), General Procurement Standards, the non-federal entity must use its own documented procurement procedures which reflect applicable State, local, and tribal laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal law and the standards identified in General Procurement Standards. Additionally, ?200.318(i) states that the non-federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of the procurement. These records are required to include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. In accordance with ?200.213 and ?180.300, Suspension and Debarment, non-federal entities cannot enter into awards, subawards, or contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in federal assistance programs or activities. Non-federal entities must either check for exclusions in the System for Award Management (SAM); collect a certification from the entity, or add a clause or condition to the covered transaction with the entity prior to entering into a covered transaction with a non-federal entity. In addition, in accordance with ?180.415(b), non-federal entities cannot renew or extend covered transactions (other than no-cost time extension) with any excluded person, or under which an excluded person is a principal, unless the non-federal entity obtains an exception under ?180.135. Condition: During our testing of the procurement, suspension and debarment compliance requirements, we identified four procurement samples out of a total of forty procurement samples tested wherein management was unable to provide supporting documentation whether the suspension and debarment checks were performed prior to entering into contracts with the vendors. For two of the four procurement samples, CRS had previously contracted with the vendor and performed the suspension and debarment checks prior to those contracts. However, management was not able to provide evidence that they performed an updated suspension or debarment check when entering the new covered transaction, as required. Management subsequently checked that none of the vendors were suspended or debarred. However, the internal controls in place were not functioning as intended to ensure that procurement files are maintained, and suspension and debarment checks are performed prior to entering a new covered transaction. Questioned Costs: There are no known or likely questioned costs. Context: This is a condition based on testing of CRS?s compliance with specified requirements. The prevalence of these findings is detailed in the condition section above. The samples were selected using a non-statistical method. Cause: CRS personnel did not adhere to CRS?s documented policies and procedures for ensuring proper suspension and debarment validations were performed prior to entering a new covered transaction. Effect: Failure to timely verify that a vendor is not suspended or debarred could result in transactions involving unreasonable costs or result in unintentionally entering into a contract with an entity that is barred from performing work for the Federal government. Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend that management ensure that suspension and debarment regulations are followed. We also recommend management ensure all required procurement documentation is maintained in conjunction with its document retention policy. Views of Responsible Officials: As noted by BDO in its description above, CRS had previously contracted three (3) of the four (4) identified vendors on previous covered transactions. Only one (1) of the vendors had not been subject to review via System for Award Management (SAM) prior to contracting/engagement. Management notes that the total comprehensive checks executed against major watchlists (including SAM.gov) in CRS totaled 23,212 (unaudited) in FY 2022 alone. While management agrees with BDO?s assessment of the samples, it should be noted CRS is strongly committed to compliance with applicable suspension and debarment regulations.
2022-003 Internal Controls over Compliance and Compliance with Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Requirement Information on the Federal Program: United States Agency for International Development Assistance Listing Number: 98.001 Assistance Listing Name: USAID Foreign Assistance for Programs Overseas Grant Award Number(s): Direct Award Number Award Period 720BHA21GR00063 March 29, 2021 through April 27, 2023 7200AA18CA00060 September 28, 2018 through September 27, 2025 72061318CA00001 January 9, 2018 through December 31, 2022 Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR ?200.318(a), General Procurement Standards, the non-federal entity must use its own documented procurement procedures which reflect applicable State, local, and tribal laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal law and the standards identified in General Procurement Standards. Additionally, ?200.318(i) states that the non-federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of the procurement. These records are required to include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. In accordance with ?200.213 and ?180.300, Suspension and Debarment, non-federal entities cannot enter into awards, subawards, or contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in federal assistance programs or activities. Non-federal entities must either check for exclusions in the System for Award Management (SAM); collect a certification from the entity, or add a clause or condition to the covered transaction with the entity prior to entering into a covered transaction with a non-federal entity. In addition, in accordance with ?180.415(b), non-federal entities cannot renew or extend covered transactions (other than no-cost time extension) with any excluded person, or under which an excluded person is a principal, unless the non-federal entity obtains an exception under ?180.135. Condition: During our testing of the procurement, suspension and debarment compliance requirements, we identified four procurement samples out of a total of forty procurement samples tested wherein management was unable to provide supporting documentation whether the suspension and debarment checks were performed prior to entering into contracts with the vendors. For two of the four procurement samples, CRS had previously contracted with the vendor and performed the suspension and debarment checks prior to those contracts. However, management was not able to provide evidence that they performed an updated suspension or debarment check when entering the new covered transaction, as required. Management subsequently checked that none of the vendors were suspended or debarred. However, the internal controls in place were not functioning as intended to ensure that procurement files are maintained, and suspension and debarment checks are performed prior to entering a new covered transaction. Questioned Costs: There are no known or likely questioned costs. Context: This is a condition based on testing of CRS?s compliance with specified requirements. The prevalence of these findings is detailed in the condition section above. The samples were selected using a non-statistical method. Cause: CRS personnel did not adhere to CRS?s documented policies and procedures for ensuring proper suspension and debarment validations were performed prior to entering a new covered transaction. Effect: Failure to timely verify that a vendor is not suspended or debarred could result in transactions involving unreasonable costs or result in unintentionally entering into a contract with an entity that is barred from performing work for the Federal government. Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend that management ensure that suspension and debarment regulations are followed. We also recommend management ensure all required procurement documentation is maintained in conjunction with its document retention policy. Views of Responsible Officials: As noted by BDO in its description above, CRS had previously contracted three (3) of the four (4) identified vendors on previous covered transactions. Only one (1) of the vendors had not been subject to review via System for Award Management (SAM) prior to contracting/engagement. Management notes that the total comprehensive checks executed against major watchlists (including SAM.gov) in CRS totaled 23,212 (unaudited) in FY 2022 alone. While management agrees with BDO?s assessment of the samples, it should be noted CRS is strongly committed to compliance with applicable suspension and debarment regulations.
2022-003 Internal Controls over Compliance and Compliance with Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Requirement Information on the Federal Program: United States Agency for International Development Assistance Listing Number: 98.001 Assistance Listing Name: USAID Foreign Assistance for Programs Overseas Grant Award Number(s): Direct Award Number Award Period 720BHA21GR00063 March 29, 2021 through April 27, 2023 7200AA18CA00060 September 28, 2018 through September 27, 2025 72061318CA00001 January 9, 2018 through December 31, 2022 Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR ?200.318(a), General Procurement Standards, the non-federal entity must use its own documented procurement procedures which reflect applicable State, local, and tribal laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal law and the standards identified in General Procurement Standards. Additionally, ?200.318(i) states that the non-federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of the procurement. These records are required to include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. In accordance with ?200.213 and ?180.300, Suspension and Debarment, non-federal entities cannot enter into awards, subawards, or contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in federal assistance programs or activities. Non-federal entities must either check for exclusions in the System for Award Management (SAM); collect a certification from the entity, or add a clause or condition to the covered transaction with the entity prior to entering into a covered transaction with a non-federal entity. In addition, in accordance with ?180.415(b), non-federal entities cannot renew or extend covered transactions (other than no-cost time extension) with any excluded person, or under which an excluded person is a principal, unless the non-federal entity obtains an exception under ?180.135. Condition: During our testing of the procurement, suspension and debarment compliance requirements, we identified four procurement samples out of a total of forty procurement samples tested wherein management was unable to provide supporting documentation whether the suspension and debarment checks were performed prior to entering into contracts with the vendors. For two of the four procurement samples, CRS had previously contracted with the vendor and performed the suspension and debarment checks prior to those contracts. However, management was not able to provide evidence that they performed an updated suspension or debarment check when entering the new covered transaction, as required. Management subsequently checked that none of the vendors were suspended or debarred. However, the internal controls in place were not functioning as intended to ensure that procurement files are maintained, and suspension and debarment checks are performed prior to entering a new covered transaction. Questioned Costs: There are no known or likely questioned costs. Context: This is a condition based on testing of CRS?s compliance with specified requirements. The prevalence of these findings is detailed in the condition section above. The samples were selected using a non-statistical method. Cause: CRS personnel did not adhere to CRS?s documented policies and procedures for ensuring proper suspension and debarment validations were performed prior to entering a new covered transaction. Effect: Failure to timely verify that a vendor is not suspended or debarred could result in transactions involving unreasonable costs or result in unintentionally entering into a contract with an entity that is barred from performing work for the Federal government. Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend that management ensure that suspension and debarment regulations are followed. We also recommend management ensure all required procurement documentation is maintained in conjunction with its document retention policy. Views of Responsible Officials: As noted by BDO in its description above, CRS had previously contracted three (3) of the four (4) identified vendors on previous covered transactions. Only one (1) of the vendors had not been subject to review via System for Award Management (SAM) prior to contracting/engagement. Management notes that the total comprehensive checks executed against major watchlists (including SAM.gov) in CRS totaled 23,212 (unaudited) in FY 2022 alone. While management agrees with BDO?s assessment of the samples, it should be noted CRS is strongly committed to compliance with applicable suspension and debarment regulations.
Identification of federal program: 21.027 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Department of the Treasury Criteria or specific requirement: 21.027 Part 4 Compliance Supplement: Procurement - Recipients may use award funds to enter into contracts to procure goods and services necessary to implement one or more of the eligible purposes outlined in sections 602(c) and 603(c) of the Act and Treasury?s Interim Final Rule. As such, recipients are expected to have procurement policies and procedures in place that comply with the procurement standards outlined in the Uniform Guidance. All other entities under the program, including subrecipients of a state, must follow the procurement standards in 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.327, including ensuring that the procurement method used for the contracts are appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR 200.320. Uniform Guidance 2 C.F.R 200.318 through 2 C.F.R. 200.327 200.318(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 200.327.200.318(i) The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not 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: It was noted during the audit of fiscal year 2022 that although Skagway Traditional Council (STC) has documented procurement policies consistent with Uniform Guidance. STC did not maintain evidence that it followed its own documented procurement policy for procurements greater than the micro-purchase threshold. Cause: STC does not have an administrative process to ensure that the procurement documentation supporting purchases greater than the micro-purchase threshold are maintained in accordance with STCs procurement policies. Effect or potential effect: STC is out of compliance with Uniform Guidance procurement standards in fiscal year 2022. Questioned Costs: None. Context: For this program, four procurements were greater than STC?s micro-purchase threshold and all four were tested against STC?s procurement policy, of those four, none of them had documentation supporting STC following STC?s procurement policies. Identification of Repeat Finding: Not applicable. Recommendations: We recommend that as a part of STC?s internal control structure over compliance with Uniform Guidance, that STC prepare a checklist, reflective of STC?s approved procurement policies, that must be completed before procurements can be awarded and all documents supporting that checklist be filled together. Views of Responsible Officials: See Corrective Action Plan
2022-001 - Procurement Federal Program Information: Department of Transportation ALN ? 20.507 ? Federal Transit Cluster Criteria: The following CFR(s) apply to this finding: 2 CFR section 200.318 through 200.326. Condition: During audit procedures, it was identified that the District?s procurement policy did not include some of the elements required by the above federal regulations. Cause: The District does not have the necessary language over the procurement policy in regard to federal regulations. Effect: Procurements might not conform to applicable Federal regulations. Identification of Questioned Costs: Based upon procurement items sampled, no noncompliance matters were noted. Context: A review was conducted of the District?s procurement policy and the policy was not in compliance with federal regulations. Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: It is recommended that the District adopt a procurement policy that is in compliance with federal regulations and that the District implement internal control processes and procedures to ensure that procurement policies are always in compliance with federal regulations. Views of Responsible Officials: Client agrees with finding.
2022-001 - Procurement Federal Program Information: Department of Transportation ALN ? 20.507 ? Federal Transit Cluster Criteria: The following CFR(s) apply to this finding: 2 CFR section 200.318 through 200.326. Condition: During audit procedures, it was identified that the District?s procurement policy did not include some of the elements required by the above federal regulations. Cause: The District does not have the necessary language over the procurement policy in regard to federal regulations. Effect: Procurements might not conform to applicable Federal regulations. Identification of Questioned Costs: Based upon procurement items sampled, no noncompliance matters were noted. Context: A review was conducted of the District?s procurement policy and the policy was not in compliance with federal regulations. Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: It is recommended that the District adopt a procurement policy that is in compliance with federal regulations and that the District implement internal control processes and procedures to ensure that procurement policies are always in compliance with federal regulations. Views of Responsible Officials: Client agrees with finding.
2022-001 - Procurement Federal Program Information: Department of Transportation ALN ? 20.507 ? Federal Transit Cluster Criteria: The following CFR(s) apply to this finding: 2 CFR section 200.318 through 200.326. Condition: During audit procedures, it was identified that the District?s procurement policy did not include some of the elements required by the above federal regulations. Cause: The District does not have the necessary language over the procurement policy in regard to federal regulations. Effect: Procurements might not conform to applicable Federal regulations. Identification of Questioned Costs: Based upon procurement items sampled, no noncompliance matters were noted. Context: A review was conducted of the District?s procurement policy and the policy was not in compliance with federal regulations. Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: It is recommended that the District adopt a procurement policy that is in compliance with federal regulations and that the District implement internal control processes and procedures to ensure that procurement policies are always in compliance with federal regulations. Views of Responsible Officials: Client agrees with finding.
2022-001 - Procurement Federal Program Information: Department of Transportation ALN ? 20.507 ? Federal Transit Cluster Criteria: The following CFR(s) apply to this finding: 2 CFR section 200.318 through 200.326. Condition: During audit procedures, it was identified that the District?s procurement policy did not include some of the elements required by the above federal regulations. Cause: The District does not have the necessary language over the procurement policy in regard to federal regulations. Effect: Procurements might not conform to applicable Federal regulations. Identification of Questioned Costs: Based upon procurement items sampled, no noncompliance matters were noted. Context: A review was conducted of the District?s procurement policy and the policy was not in compliance with federal regulations. Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: It is recommended that the District adopt a procurement policy that is in compliance with federal regulations and that the District implement internal control processes and procedures to ensure that procurement policies are always in compliance with federal regulations. Views of Responsible Officials: Client agrees with finding.
2022-001 - Procurement Federal Program Information: Department of Transportation ALN ? 20.507 ? Federal Transit Cluster Criteria: The following CFR(s) apply to this finding: 2 CFR section 200.318 through 200.326. Condition: During audit procedures, it was identified that the District?s procurement policy did not include some of the elements required by the above federal regulations. Cause: The District does not have the necessary language over the procurement policy in regard to federal regulations. Effect: Procurements might not conform to applicable Federal regulations. Identification of Questioned Costs: Based upon procurement items sampled, no noncompliance matters were noted. Context: A review was conducted of the District?s procurement policy and the policy was not in compliance with federal regulations. Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: It is recommended that the District adopt a procurement policy that is in compliance with federal regulations and that the District implement internal control processes and procedures to ensure that procurement policies are always in compliance with federal regulations. Views of Responsible Officials: Client agrees with finding.
Finding No.: 2022-001 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-Through Entity: Guam Housing and Urban Renewal Authority AL Program: COVID-19 14.231 Emergency Solutions Grant Program Federal Award No.: E-20-SW-66-0001 Area: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Questioned Cost: $1,095,000 Criteria: In accordance with applicable procurement and suspension and debarment requirements, the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the Procurement Standards in 2 CFR ? 200.318-327, which require formal procurement methods when the procurement of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold (i.e., $250,000). Condition: For one (or 20%) of five procurement transactions tested, aggregating $1,512K out of $1,519K in total non-payroll program expenditures, the small purchases method was used to procure rental of 40 rooms to be used as emergency shelters with an annual contract amount of $1,095K. Based on the contract amount, a formal procurement method should have been used in performing the procurement. Cause: Catholic Social Service (CSS) lacks controls over compliance with applicable procurement requirements. The procurement policy of CSS is not prepared in accordance with the Procurement Standards in 2 CFR 200.318-327, as it does not require formal procurement procedures for any transactions. Effect: CSS is in noncompliance with applicable procurement and suspension and debarment requirements. The total questioned cost is $1,095,000. Recommendation: CSS should establish and implement controls over compliance with applicable procurement and suspension and debarment requirements. CSS management should revisit its procurement policy for alignment with the Procurement Standards in 2 CFR 200.318-327. Views of responsible officials: CSS disagrees with the finding that CSS is in noncompliance with applicable procurement requirements cited in 2 CFR 200.318-327, resulting in a questioned cost of $1,095,000. The federal ESG-CV grant awarded to Guam Housing and Urban Renewal Authority (GHURA) to respond to the impact of COVID-19 pandemic provided waivers and alternative requirements, including greater flexibility, to establish expedited response actions to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus. Exhibit D of the sub-recipient agreement (SRA) provides for this reference of waivers and alternative requirements. Specifically, page 18 of Section III.F.8 of Exhibit D of the SRA states the following: ?8. Procurement. As provided by the CARES Act, the recipient may deviate from the applicable procurement standards (e.g., 24 CFR 576.407(c) and (f) and 2 CFR 200.317-200.326) when procuring goods and services to prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus. If the recipient deviates from its procurement standards, then the recipient must establish alternative written procurement standards, and maintain documentation on the alternative procurement standards used to safeguard against fraud, waste, and abuse in the procurement of goods and services to prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus. This alternative requirement is necessary to ensure the funds are used efficiently and effectively to prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus. Notwithstanding this flexibility, the debarment and suspension regulations at 2 CFR part 180 and 2 CFR part 2424 apply as written.? The opening of a temporary emergency shelter for families and individuals who are homeless was deemed an emergency response to the coronavirus. CSS emphasizes that the focus of GHURA was to identify readily available units and obtain price quotations to stand up an emergency homeless shelter, and the ?small purchase method? would provide that information to expedite the procurement process. This process was communicated to GHURA, as well as outcome of surveys of available units, and recommendation for selection of site. CSS agrees on the recommendation to revisit CSS? procurement policy overall that would assure objectivity and cost efficiency in the purchase of goods and services, including aligning and/or adopting verbatim procurement requirements outlined in 2 CFR 200.318-327. Auditor response: The written communications between CSS and GHURA were not provided. Also, the procurement file lacks sufficient documentation to demonstrate that the use of the small purchase method was a deviation from its procurement standards or was used to safeguard against fraud, waste, and abuse. Based on the inspected procurement file, only one out of three suppliers had provided CSS a quotation. Given the high value of the procurement, CSS should have further solicited quotations from other suppliers or documented the rationale for not pursuing additional quotations from available suppliers.
Finding No.: 2022-001 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-Through Entity: Guam Housing and Urban Renewal Authority AL Program: COVID-19 14.231 Emergency Solutions Grant Program Federal Award No.: E-20-SW-66-0001 Area: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Questioned Cost: $1,095,000 Criteria: In accordance with applicable procurement and suspension and debarment requirements, the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the Procurement Standards in 2 CFR ? 200.318-327, which require formal procurement methods when the procurement of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold (i.e., $250,000). Condition: For one (or 20%) of five procurement transactions tested, aggregating $1,512K out of $1,519K in total non-payroll program expenditures, the small purchases method was used to procure rental of 40 rooms to be used as emergency shelters with an annual contract amount of $1,095K. Based on the contract amount, a formal procurement method should have been used in performing the procurement. Cause: Catholic Social Service (CSS) lacks controls over compliance with applicable procurement requirements. The procurement policy of CSS is not prepared in accordance with the Procurement Standards in 2 CFR 200.318-327, as it does not require formal procurement procedures for any transactions. Effect: CSS is in noncompliance with applicable procurement and suspension and debarment requirements. The total questioned cost is $1,095,000. Recommendation: CSS should establish and implement controls over compliance with applicable procurement and suspension and debarment requirements. CSS management should revisit its procurement policy for alignment with the Procurement Standards in 2 CFR 200.318-327. Views of responsible officials: CSS disagrees with the finding that CSS is in noncompliance with applicable procurement requirements cited in 2 CFR 200.318-327, resulting in a questioned cost of $1,095,000. The federal ESG-CV grant awarded to Guam Housing and Urban Renewal Authority (GHURA) to respond to the impact of COVID-19 pandemic provided waivers and alternative requirements, including greater flexibility, to establish expedited response actions to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus. Exhibit D of the sub-recipient agreement (SRA) provides for this reference of waivers and alternative requirements. Specifically, page 18 of Section III.F.8 of Exhibit D of the SRA states the following: ?8. Procurement. As provided by the CARES Act, the recipient may deviate from the applicable procurement standards (e.g., 24 CFR 576.407(c) and (f) and 2 CFR 200.317-200.326) when procuring goods and services to prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus. If the recipient deviates from its procurement standards, then the recipient must establish alternative written procurement standards, and maintain documentation on the alternative procurement standards used to safeguard against fraud, waste, and abuse in the procurement of goods and services to prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus. This alternative requirement is necessary to ensure the funds are used efficiently and effectively to prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus. Notwithstanding this flexibility, the debarment and suspension regulations at 2 CFR part 180 and 2 CFR part 2424 apply as written.? The opening of a temporary emergency shelter for families and individuals who are homeless was deemed an emergency response to the coronavirus. CSS emphasizes that the focus of GHURA was to identify readily available units and obtain price quotations to stand up an emergency homeless shelter, and the ?small purchase method? would provide that information to expedite the procurement process. This process was communicated to GHURA, as well as outcome of surveys of available units, and recommendation for selection of site. CSS agrees on the recommendation to revisit CSS? procurement policy overall that would assure objectivity and cost efficiency in the purchase of goods and services, including aligning and/or adopting verbatim procurement requirements outlined in 2 CFR 200.318-327. Auditor response: The written communications between CSS and GHURA were not provided. Also, the procurement file lacks sufficient documentation to demonstrate that the use of the small purchase method was a deviation from its procurement standards or was used to safeguard against fraud, waste, and abuse. Based on the inspected procurement file, only one out of three suppliers had provided CSS a quotation. Given the high value of the procurement, CSS should have further solicited quotations from other suppliers or documented the rationale for not pursuing additional quotations from available suppliers.
THE SALVATION ARMY USA, WESTERN TERRITORY, DEL ORO DIVISION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS SEPTEMBER 30, 2022 Reference Number: 2022-001 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development State Agency: State of California- Department of Housing and Community Development Federal Program: Emergency Solutions Grant Program ALN Number: 14.231 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Material Weakness, Noncompliance Criteria or specific requirement: As per ? 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. (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. (d) 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: Based on our review of the Procurement compliance requirements, we noted that the Division has written procurement policies and competitive policies as required by CFR ? 200.318 General procurement standards. We selected two (2) vendors for procurement Suspension and Debarment compliance testing of total population of 2 vendors subject to procurement and we were not provided with Procurement comparative bids therefore, we were unable: ? To verify that the procurement method used was appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. ? To Verify that procurements provide full and open competition (2 CFR section 200.319 and 48 CFR section 52.244-5). Cause: The Division did not ensured that as a non-Federal entity must have and must use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local laws and regulations and the standards of ?? 200.318 through 200.327, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. Effect: The funding agency can reject the expenditures incurred by the Division on certain vendors where the Division must use procurement method appropriately based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. Questioned costs: Cannot be determined Recommendation: We recommend that the Division must: (1) document procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local, laws and regulations and the standards, for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. (2) The Division?s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in ?? 200.318 through 200.327. Views of responsible officials: The Division will work with Territorial Headquarters to document procedures as outlined in the Recommendations above. See corrective action plan.
THE SALVATION ARMY USA, WESTERN TERRITORY, DEL ORO DIVISION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS SEPTEMBER 30, 2022 Reference Number: 2022-001 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development State Agency: State of California- Department of Housing and Community Development Federal Program: Emergency Solutions Grant Program ALN Number: 14.231 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Material Weakness, Noncompliance Criteria or specific requirement: As per ? 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. (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. (d) 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: Based on our review of the Procurement compliance requirements, we noted that the Division has written procurement policies and competitive policies as required by CFR ? 200.318 General procurement standards. We selected two (2) vendors for procurement Suspension and Debarment compliance testing of total population of 2 vendors subject to procurement and we were not provided with Procurement comparative bids therefore, we were unable: ? To verify that the procurement method used was appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. ? To Verify that procurements provide full and open competition (2 CFR section 200.319 and 48 CFR section 52.244-5). Cause: The Division did not ensured that as a non-Federal entity must have and must use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local laws and regulations and the standards of ?? 200.318 through 200.327, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. Effect: The funding agency can reject the expenditures incurred by the Division on certain vendors where the Division must use procurement method appropriately based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. Questioned costs: Cannot be determined Recommendation: We recommend that the Division must: (1) document procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local, laws and regulations and the standards, for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. (2) The Division?s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in ?? 200.318 through 200.327. Views of responsible officials: The Division will work with Territorial Headquarters to document procedures as outlined in the Recommendations above. See corrective action plan.
2022-009 – Procurement Documentation Finding Type: Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls and Noncompliance (Procurement, Suspension & Debarment) Federal Program: U.S. Department of Treasury – Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (AL #21.027) Criteria: The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Section 200.318(a) requires non-Federal entities to establish and use documented procurement procedures that conform to the procurement standards identified in Sections 200.317 through 200.327. Condition: While the County does have a written procurement policy that meets the requirements, the policy was not being followed. The County did not maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement including the rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. The County did not maintain documentation to sufficiently support noncompetitive procurement on one contract tested. The County did not maintain written documentation of a cost analysis. County management indicated that many of the items procured were processed through the Michigan MiDeal website, but a contract file was not maintained. Cause: The County does not have controls in place to ensure that its procurement policy is being followed. Effect: As a result of this condition, the County did not fully comply with the Uniform Guidance. Questioned Costs: No costs have been questioned as a result of this finding. Recommendation: We recommend that the County implement controls to ensure the procurement policy is followed. Views of Responsible Officials: The County will work to implement controls to ensure the procurement policy is followed.
Information on the Federal Program: Assistance Listing Number 21.027-Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds, U.S. Department of the Treasury. Compliance Requirements: Procurement. Type of Finding: Noncompliance. Criteria: 2 CFR § 200.318(c)(1) requires that the non-Federal entity must maintain written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award and administration of contracts. Condition: We noted that the County did not have written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award and administration of contracts in fiscal year 2022. Cause: The County was not aware of the requirement to have written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award and administration of contracts. Effect: Failure to have written standards of conduct could result in noncompliance with Uniform Guidance requirements. Questioned Costs: There are no questioned costs. Recommendation: We recommend that the County develop written standards of conduct that include the requirements of 2 CFR § 200.318(c)(1). Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action: The County will develop written standards of conduct in that satisfy the requirements of 2 CFR § 200.318(c)(1).
Information on the Federal Program: Assistance Listing Number 21.027-Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds, U.S. Department of the Treasury. Compliance Requirements: Procurement. Type of Finding: Noncompliance. Criteria: 2 CFR § 200.319(d) requires that the non-Federal entity must maintain written procedures for procurement transactions. Condition: We noted that the County did not have written procedures for procurement transactions that include the provisions required by the Procurement Standards 2 CFR § 200.318 through 2 CFR § 200.327 in fiscal year 2022. Cause: The County was not aware of the requirement to have written procedures for procurement transactions. Effect: Failure to have adequate written procedures for procurement transactions could result in the acquisition of goods or services in violation with administrative requirements, federal regulations, other procurement requirements, and Uniform Guidance requirements. Questioned Costs: There are no questioned costs. Recommendation: We recommend that the County identify grants that are subject to Uniform Guidance on a timely basis to ensure all compliance requirements are met and develop adequate written policies and procedures for procurement transactions. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action: The County has identified federal grants subject to the Uniform Guidance and will develop written policies and procedures which include the relevant provisions required by 2 CFR § 200.318 through 2 CFR § 200.326 Contract provisions.