Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory or Other Citation): 2 CFR 200.303 requires that the non-Federal entity must “(a) establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States and the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).” 2 CFR 200.318 (i) General Procurement Standards states, “the non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price.” Condition: Methodist did not maintain records for procurements 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. Cause: Methodist did not have effective internal controls and procedures in place to ensure Methodist maintained records for procurements sufficient to detail the history of procurement, including the rationale for the method of procurement and other required elements. Effect or Potential Effect: Methodist did not comply with the general procurement standards and methods of procurement to be followed per the Uniform Guidance to maintain sufficient detail of the history of the procurement, including the rationale of the method of procurement. Questioned Costs: $12,807 Context: EY selected and tested 10 procurements over $10,000 with expenditures totaling $182,415 from a population of $1,289,446 procurements over $10,000 during the year ended December 31, 2024. Of the 10 expenditures selected for testing 1 procurement totaling $12,807 did not have evidence of sole source justification Identification as a Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: Methodist should retain written documentation for procurements, documenting the history of the procurement prior to the procurement of goods or services including, but not limited to, the 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: Methodist recognizes the current gap between Supply Chain Services and the Research Institute related to retaining documents for procurement activities. Supply Chain Services will develop processes to retain written documentation for procurement activities in accordance with regulatory standards. As Methodist is in transition to a new ERP system in Quarter 1, 2026, Supply Chain Services will include strategies to address the needs in both the short term and long term.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Assistance Listing Numbers: 21.027 & 93.623 Federal Program Titles: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds; Basic Center Grant Type of Finding: • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Code of Federal Regulations 2 CFR 200.318, General procurement standards, requires that non-Federal entities must have documented procurement procedures, consistent with State and local laws and regulations for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award and subaward. The non-Federal entity’s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. Condition: During our testing, we noted that the Organization’s procurement policy did not address all of the identified requirements in 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. Questioned Costs: None. Context: In our review of the current procurement policy, The Adams Group, LLC noted the following: • The policy did not include documented procedures for purchases above the simplified acquisition threshold ($250,000) in accordance with 2 CFR 200.320b. • The policy did not include documented procedures for the use and instances of noncompetitive procurement in accordance with 2 CFR 200.320c. • The policy did not include documented procedures for verifying that an entity with which it plans to enter into a covered transaction is not debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded as outlined in 2 CFR sections 200.212 and 200.318. • We also noted that the Organization did not verify that the entities with which it entered into contracts were not debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded. Effect: The Organization’s procurement policy is not in compliance with general procurement standards, and proper verification procedures for potentially suspended or debarred entities were not performed. Repeat Finding: This is a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization update their procurement policy to address all requirements identified in 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Assistance Listing Numbers: 21.027 & 93.623 Federal Program Titles: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds; Basic Center Grant Type of Finding: • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Code of Federal Regulations 2 CFR 200.318, General procurement standards, requires that non-Federal entities must have documented procurement procedures, consistent with State and local laws and regulations for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award and subaward. The non-Federal entity’s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. Condition: During our testing, we noted that the Organization’s procurement policy did not address all of the identified requirements in 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. Questioned Costs: None. Context: In our review of the current procurement policy, The Adams Group, LLC noted the following: • The policy did not include documented procedures for purchases above the simplified acquisition threshold ($250,000) in accordance with 2 CFR 200.320b. • The policy did not include documented procedures for the use and instances of noncompetitive procurement in accordance with 2 CFR 200.320c. • The policy did not include documented procedures for verifying that an entity with which it plans to enter into a covered transaction is not debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded as outlined in 2 CFR sections 200.212 and 200.318. • We also noted that the Organization did not verify that the entities with which it entered into contracts were not debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded. Effect: The Organization’s procurement policy is not in compliance with general procurement standards, and proper verification procedures for potentially suspended or debarred entities were not performed. Repeat Finding: This is a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization update their procurement policy to address all requirements identified in 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding.
Department of Treasury Federal Financial Assistance Listing No. 21.027 COVID-19 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Immaterial Instance of Noncompliance Criteria – Uniform Guidance and 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326 set forth the procurement standards non-federal entities other than states must follow when operating federal programs and the procurement procedures required. Condition – In our testing of procurement, suspension and debarment it was identified that the City did not have a written policy on procurement that satisfied the requirements of 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. Cause – Lack of oversight, awareness, or understanding of all of the specific requirements under the Uniform Guidance and applicable CFR sections and controls were not adequately designed to ensure compliance with all of these requirements. Effect – A lack of documented policies increase the overall risk that employees are not aware of the specific requirements with contracting and awarding contracts to lower tier entities. Questioned Costs – None reported Context/Sampling – All vendors, which totaled one, were selected for procurement testing. Repeat Finding from Prior Years – Yes Recommendation – Management should establish a written policy that addresses all of the procurement requirements for federal programs as identified in 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326 and maintain adequate supporting documentation and records to document history and methods of procurement and the procedures performed to comply with these CFR sections. View of responsible officials – Management is in agreement with the finding.
Finding 2024-003: Material Weakness - Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Federal Program: Water and Waste Disposal Systems for Rural Communities Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Agriculture Assistance Listing Number: 10.760 Criteria: For federal awards after January 1, 2018, guidance provided in 2 CFR part 200.318 requires non-federal entities to establish and follow their own documented procurement procedures that conform to applicable federal law and standards. 2 CFR part 200.320 includes different allowable methods of procurement. There are also requirements to verify the vendors are not suspended or debarred. Condition/Context: During testing for this program, one of two vendors tested did not go through the appropriate procurement process. The vendor was directly awarded the project. The City did not have documentation of ensuring either of the vendors selected for testing were not suspended or debarred before entering in to covered transactions. The sample was not a statistically valid sample. Cause: The City has not historically bid out their engineering services and has used the same vendor for all projects. Due to turnover, the City did not have documentation of the search for suspension or debarment of the vendors. Effect: The City could potentially not have selected an appropriate vendor for the project or vendors could be used who are not eligible to be paid with federal funds. Questioned Costs: None noted. Recommendation: The City should ensure contracts are following the procurement process for selection of vendors for federally funded projects. Program personnel should become familiar with the procurement, suspension and debarment rules for federal programs and implement process changes for future projects and retain documentation of such verifications. Views of Responsible Officials: The City of Rhinelander has had turnover in the mayor, city administrator and public works director positions in recent years. The City will be reviewing its procurement policy to define clearer expectations for the administrative staff to follow.
2024-004: Written Policies and Procedures – Significant Deficiency Criteria and Condition: 2 CFR 200.302 requires that the recipient or subrecipient’s financial management system must provide written procedures to implement the requirements of 2 CFR 200.305 (Federal payments) and for determining the allowability of costs in accordance with subpart E and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. Additionally, 2 CFR 200.318 requires that the recipient or subrecipient must maintain and use documented procedures for procurement transactions under a Federal award or subaward, including for acquisition of property or services. Context: Although the Organization follows procedures that minimize the time between reimbursement of dollars and expenditure (2 CFR 200.305), verify payments made are in accordance with subpart E and terms and conditions of the award, and follow procurement standards for vendors, there are no written procedures as required by the CFR. Cause and Effect: The Organization did not maintain written procedures as required by the CFR. Questioned Costs: This finding does not result in questioned costs. Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization formally document the current policies and procedures in place to meet documentation requirements of the CFR. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: We will adopt formal policies and procedures that document our current practices and also meet the requirements of the CFR.
2024-004: Written Policies and Procedures – Significant Deficiency Criteria and Condition: 2 CFR 200.302 requires that the recipient or subrecipient’s financial management system must provide written procedures to implement the requirements of 2 CFR 200.305 (Federal payments) and for determining the allowability of costs in accordance with subpart E and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. Additionally, 2 CFR 200.318 requires that the recipient or subrecipient must maintain and use documented procedures for procurement transactions under a Federal award or subaward, including for acquisition of property or services. Context: Although the Organization follows procedures that minimize the time between reimbursement of dollars and expenditure (2 CFR 200.305), verify payments made are in accordance with subpart E and terms and conditions of the award, and follow procurement standards for vendors, there are no written procedures as required by the CFR. Cause and Effect: The Organization did not maintain written procedures as required by the CFR. Questioned Costs: This finding does not result in questioned costs. Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization formally document the current policies and procedures in place to meet documentation requirements of the CFR. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: We will adopt formal policies and procedures that document our current practices and also meet the requirements of the CFR.
Finding 2024-003 Material weakness in internal control over compliance with procurement procedures meeting the requirements of 2 CFR Part 200. Federal Agency: Department of Health and Human Services Program Titles: Community Funded Projects Assistance Listing Number: 93.493 Pass-Through Entity: N/A Award Numbers: H79FG001026 and H79FG001037 Award Periods: September 30, 2023 through September 29, 2024 Criteria Internal controls requirements contained in Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (the Uniform Guidance) , Subpart D ‐ Post Federal Award Requirements, Section 200.318 through 200.326 Internal Controls, require that a non‐Federal entity 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. The procurement procedures must include the following: - Using 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 micro-purchase 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). Micro-purchases may be awarded without soliciting competitive quotations if the nonfederal 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)). - For acquisitions exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold, using 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 the circumstances are met, in accordance with 2 CFR section 200.320(c)). - Using Noncompetitive procurement only if one or more of the following circumstances apply: · The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which does not exceed the micro-purchase threshold; · The item is available only from a single source; · The public exigency or emergency for the requirement will not permit a delay resulting from publicizing a competitive solicitation; · The Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity expressly authorizes a noncompetitive procurement in response to a written request from the nonfederal entity; or · After solicitation of a number of sources, competition is determined inadequate PDA’s procurement policy also requires a verification that vendors and sub-recipients are not suspended or debarred by checking the website of the System for Award Management and documentation of such verification maintained by the Finance Office. Condition/Context While PDA has established a procurement policy, it does not fully conform to Federal law and the Uniform Guidance for the following reasons: - Micro purchase threshold is not explicitly defined, although it is mentioned that cost and price analysis shall be made and documented in connection with every procurement action above $5,000. - The policy does not have clear provisions for maintaining detailed procurement records. Such records should include the rationale for the procurement method, the selection of contract type, the contractor selection or rejection process, and the basis for the contract price. - The simplified acquisition threshold is not defined and does not incorporate all relevant elements including sealed bids method. The total misstatement is the entire population amount $1,546,725 as PDA did not maintain sufficient documentation to evidence history of procurement for all procurements. Cause PDA’s procurement policy does not seem to have been reviewed against the Uniform Guidance for compliance. Internal controls over maintaining sufficient records to detail the history of procurement including noncompetitive justification and suspension and debarment verification were found to be insufficient. Effect The absence of a policy that fully conformed to the Uniform Guidance resulted in noncompliance issues such as records sufficient to detail the history of procurement transactions not maintained. Questioned Costs $1,546,725 Repeat Finding Yes Recommendation We recommend PDA implement measures to ensure that its procurement policy reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations conforming to applicable federal statutes and requirement in 2 CFR part 200. Management should ensure procurement transactions are documented in such detail to evidence the method of procurement use and vendor verification for suspension and debarment.
Finding 2024-003 Material weakness in internal control over compliance with procurement procedures meeting the requirements of 2 CFR Part 200. Federal Agency: Department of Health and Human Services Program Titles: Community Funded Projects Assistance Listing Number: 93.493 Pass-Through Entity: N/A Award Numbers: H79FG001026 and H79FG001037 Award Periods: September 30, 2023 through September 29, 2024 Criteria Internal controls requirements contained in Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (the Uniform Guidance) , Subpart D ‐ Post Federal Award Requirements, Section 200.318 through 200.326 Internal Controls, require that a non‐Federal entity 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. The procurement procedures must include the following: - Using 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 micro-purchase 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). Micro-purchases may be awarded without soliciting competitive quotations if the nonfederal 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)). - For acquisitions exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold, using 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 the circumstances are met, in accordance with 2 CFR section 200.320(c)). - Using Noncompetitive procurement only if one or more of the following circumstances apply: · The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which does not exceed the micro-purchase threshold; · The item is available only from a single source; · The public exigency or emergency for the requirement will not permit a delay resulting from publicizing a competitive solicitation; · The Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity expressly authorizes a noncompetitive procurement in response to a written request from the nonfederal entity; or · After solicitation of a number of sources, competition is determined inadequate PDA’s procurement policy also requires a verification that vendors and sub-recipients are not suspended or debarred by checking the website of the System for Award Management and documentation of such verification maintained by the Finance Office. Condition/Context While PDA has established a procurement policy, it does not fully conform to Federal law and the Uniform Guidance for the following reasons: - Micro purchase threshold is not explicitly defined, although it is mentioned that cost and price analysis shall be made and documented in connection with every procurement action above $5,000. - The policy does not have clear provisions for maintaining detailed procurement records. Such records should include the rationale for the procurement method, the selection of contract type, the contractor selection or rejection process, and the basis for the contract price. - The simplified acquisition threshold is not defined and does not incorporate all relevant elements including sealed bids method. The total misstatement is the entire population amount $1,546,725 as PDA did not maintain sufficient documentation to evidence history of procurement for all procurements. Cause PDA’s procurement policy does not seem to have been reviewed against the Uniform Guidance for compliance. Internal controls over maintaining sufficient records to detail the history of procurement including noncompetitive justification and suspension and debarment verification were found to be insufficient. Effect The absence of a policy that fully conformed to the Uniform Guidance resulted in noncompliance issues such as records sufficient to detail the history of procurement transactions not maintained. Questioned Costs $1,546,725 Repeat Finding Yes Recommendation We recommend PDA implement measures to ensure that its procurement policy reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations conforming to applicable federal statutes and requirement in 2 CFR part 200. Management should ensure procurement transactions are documented in such detail to evidence the method of procurement use and vendor verification for suspension and debarment.
Finding Number: 2024-001 Finding Type: Federal award finding Federal Assistance Listing No.: 15.685 Program Name: National Fish Passage Federal Agency: U.S. Department of the Interior Federal Grant Number: F24C01411-00 Federal Award Year: 2024 Pass-through entity: Rogue River Watershed Council Grant Number: 205 Control Deficiency Type: Significant deficiency in internal controls and instances of non-compliance Instances of Noncompliance: Yes Compliance Requirement: Procurement, suspension and debarment Questioned Costs: None Repeat Finding: No Criteria: A non-federal organization must follow its own documented procurement procedures, provided they comply with applicable state and local laws and align with the federal standards outlined in 2 CFR 200.318–200.327 (“Uniform Guidance”). Specifically, 2 CFR 200.318(i) requires entities to maintain records sufficient to detail the history of the procurement, including but not limited to the rationale for the procurement method chosen, the basis for selecting or rejecting contractors, and the justification for the contract price. In addition, all procurement transactions must be conducted in a manner providing full and open competition. Furthermore, federal requirements prohibit grant recipients from contracting with, or purchasing from, contractors who are suspended and debarred from doing business with the federal government. Whenever the organization enters into contracts or purchases goods or services with federal funds that it expects to equal or exceed $25,000, it must verify that the contractor or vendor has not been suspended, debarred or otherwise excluded. Finally, the organization must ensure that all federal programs comply with Section 70914 of the Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act for infrastructure projects. Condition: The organization has enacted a written procurement policy and management believed that it met all the standards required under 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. However, the policy failed to include some of the most stringent requirements included in the Uniform Guidance, and the organization did not comply with all the documentation requirements laid out in its procurement policy. More specifically, the organization did not maintain written thorough documentation of the procurement process as stated in 2 CFR 200.318(i), nor publicized the request for proposal in accordance with 2 CFR 200.319. Finally, the contract funded under the major program did not incorporate the mandatory BABA Act compliance language. Cause: As this was the entity’s first federal audit, WaterWatch was unaware of some procurement requirements outlined in the Uniform Guidance that needed to be incorporated into its procurement policies and procedures. Furthermore, the entity was new to the federal procurement environment. Regarding suspension and debarment, and the BABA Act, the organization was generally aware of these requirements and believed it had achieved compliance. However, WaterWatch was not aware of the need to perform documented formal verification regarding debarment beyond regularly sharing information in their existing networks of restoration agency and NGOs which rely on the same pool of experience contractors. Regarding BABA, WaterWatch was not aware of the specific documentation requirements. WaterWatch did not add the required contract language regarding BABA or debarment. In addition, due to the limited number of contractors performing this type of work, only four contractors responded to this particular request for proposal and only one submitted a bid. As a result, WaterWatch did not generate their comparison-based procurement process written documentation. Effect: The organization did not comply with some of the procurement, suspension and debarment requirement as outline in the Uniform Guidance. Audit Recommendation: We recommend that management review its current procurement policy to ensure that all procurement activities fully comply with the federal regulations, as well as establish additional procedure and oversight mechanism to ensure that procurement activities fully comply with the organization’s policies. Management’s Response: The following corrective actions are being immediately implemented for contracts in WaterWatch’s restoration program in order to achieve compliance: 1. Language requiring all contractors to comply with the Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act is added to all new WaterWatch contracts and all current contracts via amendment. 2. Language requiring all contractors to comply with federal suspension and debarment contracting standards is added to all new WaterWatch contracts and all current contracts via amendment. 3. WaterWatch will keep formal documentation of debarment searches for all contractors. 4. WaterWatch will keep formal documentation of contractor procurement process in both Southern Oregon and Portland offices.
Finding Number: 2024-001 Finding Type: Federal award finding Federal Assistance Listing No.: 15.685 Program Name: National Fish Passage Federal Agency: U.S. Department of the Interior Federal Grant Number: F24C01411-00 Federal Award Year: 2024 Pass-through entity: Rogue River Watershed Council Grant Number: 205 Control Deficiency Type: Significant deficiency in internal controls and instances of non-compliance Instances of Noncompliance: Yes Compliance Requirement: Procurement, suspension and debarment Questioned Costs: None Repeat Finding: No Criteria: A non-federal organization must follow its own documented procurement procedures, provided they comply with applicable state and local laws and align with the federal standards outlined in 2 CFR 200.318–200.327 (“Uniform Guidance”). Specifically, 2 CFR 200.318(i) requires entities to maintain records sufficient to detail the history of the procurement, including but not limited to the rationale for the procurement method chosen, the basis for selecting or rejecting contractors, and the justification for the contract price. In addition, all procurement transactions must be conducted in a manner providing full and open competition. Furthermore, federal requirements prohibit grant recipients from contracting with, or purchasing from, contractors who are suspended and debarred from doing business with the federal government. Whenever the organization enters into contracts or purchases goods or services with federal funds that it expects to equal or exceed $25,000, it must verify that the contractor or vendor has not been suspended, debarred or otherwise excluded. Finally, the organization must ensure that all federal programs comply with Section 70914 of the Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act for infrastructure projects. Condition: The organization has enacted a written procurement policy and management believed that it met all the standards required under 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. However, the policy failed to include some of the most stringent requirements included in the Uniform Guidance, and the organization did not comply with all the documentation requirements laid out in its procurement policy. More specifically, the organization did not maintain written thorough documentation of the procurement process as stated in 2 CFR 200.318(i), nor publicized the request for proposal in accordance with 2 CFR 200.319. Finally, the contract funded under the major program did not incorporate the mandatory BABA Act compliance language. Cause: As this was the entity’s first federal audit, WaterWatch was unaware of some procurement requirements outlined in the Uniform Guidance that needed to be incorporated into its procurement policies and procedures. Furthermore, the entity was new to the federal procurement environment. Regarding suspension and debarment, and the BABA Act, the organization was generally aware of these requirements and believed it had achieved compliance. However, WaterWatch was not aware of the need to perform documented formal verification regarding debarment beyond regularly sharing information in their existing networks of restoration agency and NGOs which rely on the same pool of experience contractors. Regarding BABA, WaterWatch was not aware of the specific documentation requirements. WaterWatch did not add the required contract language regarding BABA or debarment. In addition, due to the limited number of contractors performing this type of work, only four contractors responded to this particular request for proposal and only one submitted a bid. As a result, WaterWatch did not generate their comparison-based procurement process written documentation. Effect: The organization did not comply with some of the procurement, suspension and debarment requirement as outline in the Uniform Guidance. Audit Recommendation: We recommend that management review its current procurement policy to ensure that all procurement activities fully comply with the federal regulations, as well as establish additional procedure and oversight mechanism to ensure that procurement activities fully comply with the organization’s policies. Management’s Response: The following corrective actions are being immediately implemented for contracts in WaterWatch’s restoration program in order to achieve compliance: 1. Language requiring all contractors to comply with the Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act is added to all new WaterWatch contracts and all current contracts via amendment. 2. Language requiring all contractors to comply with federal suspension and debarment contracting standards is added to all new WaterWatch contracts and all current contracts via amendment. 3. WaterWatch will keep formal documentation of debarment searches for all contractors. 4. WaterWatch will keep formal documentation of contractor procurement process in both Southern Oregon and Portland offices.
2 CFR § 300 codified in 45 CFR part 75 and gives regulatory effect to the Department of Health and Human Services 2 CFR § 200; while 2 CFR § 400 gives regulatory effect to the Department of Agriculture for 2 CFR § 200. 2 CFR § 200.302(b)(6) states the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for written procedures to implement the requirements of 2 CFR § 200.305 for Payment. 2 CFR 200.302(b)(7) requires written procedures for determining the allowability of costs in accordance with Subpart E-Cost Principles of this part and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. 2 CFR 200.430 states that costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of this part, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the non-Federal entity consistently applied to both Federal and non-Federal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a non-Federal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of Federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in paragraph (i) of this section, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. 2 CFR 200.431 requires established written leave policies if the entity intends to pay fringe benefits. 2 CFR 200.464(a)(2) requires reimbursement of relocation costs to employees be in accordance with an established written policy must be consistently followed by the employer. 2 CFR 200.475 requires reimbursement and/or charges to be consistent with those normally allowed in like circumstances in the non-Federal entity's non-federally-funded activities and in accordance with non-Federal entity's written travel reimbursement policies. Additionally, for Federal awards, the Uniform Guidance requires a written policy for the procurement requirements outlined in 2 CFR § 200.318(c)(1), 2 CFR § 200.318(c)(2), and 2 CFR § 200.320(B). The Board of Health did not have written policies as required by the Uniform Guidance as they were not aware of the requirements. The failure to implement written policies as required by the Uniform Guidance could result in noncompliance with the District’s federal programs. The Board of Health should adopt written policies in accordance with the Uniform Guidance to help improve internal controls over federal compliance.
2 CFR § 300 codified in 45 CFR part 75 and gives regulatory effect to the Department of Health and Human Services 2 CFR § 200; while 2 CFR § 400 gives regulatory effect to the Department of Agriculture for 2 CFR § 200. 2 CFR § 200.302(b)(6) states the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for written procedures to implement the requirements of 2 CFR § 200.305 for Payment. 2 CFR 200.302(b)(7) requires written procedures for determining the allowability of costs in accordance with Subpart E-Cost Principles of this part and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. 2 CFR 200.430 states that costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of this part, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the non-Federal entity consistently applied to both Federal and non-Federal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a non-Federal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of Federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in paragraph (i) of this section, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. 2 CFR 200.431 requires established written leave policies if the entity intends to pay fringe benefits. 2 CFR 200.464(a)(2) requires reimbursement of relocation costs to employees be in accordance with an established written policy must be consistently followed by the employer. 2 CFR 200.475 requires reimbursement and/or charges to be consistent with those normally allowed in like circumstances in the non-Federal entity's non-federally-funded activities and in accordance with non-Federal entity's written travel reimbursement policies. Additionally, for Federal awards, the Uniform Guidance requires a written policy for the procurement requirements outlined in 2 CFR § 200.318(c)(1), 2 CFR § 200.318(c)(2), and 2 CFR § 200.320(B). The Board of Health did not have written policies as required by the Uniform Guidance as they were not aware of the requirements. The failure to implement written policies as required by the Uniform Guidance could result in noncompliance with the District’s federal programs. The Board of Health should adopt written policies in accordance with the Uniform Guidance to help improve internal controls over federal compliance.
2 CFR § 300 codified in 45 CFR part 75 and gives regulatory effect to the Department of Health and Human Services 2 CFR § 200; while 2 CFR § 400 gives regulatory effect to the Department of Agriculture for 2 CFR § 200. 2 CFR § 200.302(b)(6) states the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for written procedures to implement the requirements of 2 CFR § 200.305 for Payment. 2 CFR 200.302(b)(7) requires written procedures for determining the allowability of costs in accordance with Subpart E-Cost Principles of this part and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. 2 CFR 200.430 states that costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of this part, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the non-Federal entity consistently applied to both Federal and non-Federal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a non-Federal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of Federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in paragraph (i) of this section, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. 2 CFR 200.431 requires established written leave policies if the entity intends to pay fringe benefits. 2 CFR 200.464(a)(2) requires reimbursement of relocation costs to employees be in accordance with an established written policy must be consistently followed by the employer. 2 CFR 200.475 requires reimbursement and/or charges to be consistent with those normally allowed in like circumstances in the non-Federal entity's non-federally-funded activities and in accordance with non-Federal entity's written travel reimbursement policies. Additionally, for Federal awards, the Uniform Guidance requires a written policy for the procurement requirements outlined in 2 CFR § 200.318(c)(1), 2 CFR § 200.318(c)(2), and 2 CFR § 200.320(B). The Board of Health did not have written policies as required by the Uniform Guidance as they were not aware of the requirements. The failure to implement written policies as required by the Uniform Guidance could result in noncompliance with the District’s federal programs. The Board of Health should adopt written policies in accordance with the Uniform Guidance to help improve internal controls over federal compliance.
2 CFR § 300 codified in 45 CFR part 75 and gives regulatory effect to the Department of Health and Human Services 2 CFR § 200; while 2 CFR § 400 gives regulatory effect to the Department of Agriculture for 2 CFR § 200. 2 CFR § 200.302(b)(6) states the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for written procedures to implement the requirements of 2 CFR § 200.305 for Payment. 2 CFR 200.302(b)(7) requires written procedures for determining the allowability of costs in accordance with Subpart E-Cost Principles of this part and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. 2 CFR 200.430 states that costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of this part, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the non-Federal entity consistently applied to both Federal and non-Federal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a non-Federal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of Federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in paragraph (i) of this section, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. 2 CFR 200.431 requires established written leave policies if the entity intends to pay fringe benefits. 2 CFR 200.464(a)(2) requires reimbursement of relocation costs to employees be in accordance with an established written policy must be consistently followed by the employer. 2 CFR 200.475 requires reimbursement and/or charges to be consistent with those normally allowed in like circumstances in the non-Federal entity's non-federally-funded activities and in accordance with non-Federal entity's written travel reimbursement policies. Additionally, for Federal awards, the Uniform Guidance requires a written policy for the procurement requirements outlined in 2 CFR § 200.318(c)(1), 2 CFR § 200.318(c)(2), and 2 CFR § 200.320(B). The Board of Health did not have written policies as required by the Uniform Guidance as they were not aware of the requirements. The failure to implement written policies as required by the Uniform Guidance could result in noncompliance with the District’s federal programs. The Board of Health should adopt written policies in accordance with the Uniform Guidance to help improve internal controls over federal compliance.
2 CFR § 300 codified in 45 CFR part 75 and gives regulatory effect to the Department of Health and Human Services 2 CFR § 200; while 2 CFR § 400 gives regulatory effect to the Department of Agriculture for 2 CFR § 200. 2 CFR § 200.302(b)(6) states the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for written procedures to implement the requirements of 2 CFR § 200.305 for Payment. 2 CFR 200.302(b)(7) requires written procedures for determining the allowability of costs in accordance with Subpart E-Cost Principles of this part and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. 2 CFR 200.430 states that costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of this part, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the non-Federal entity consistently applied to both Federal and non-Federal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a non-Federal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of Federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in paragraph (i) of this section, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. 2 CFR 200.431 requires established written leave policies if the entity intends to pay fringe benefits. 2 CFR 200.464(a)(2) requires reimbursement of relocation costs to employees be in accordance with an established written policy must be consistently followed by the employer. 2 CFR 200.475 requires reimbursement and/or charges to be consistent with those normally allowed in like circumstances in the non-Federal entity's non-federally-funded activities and in accordance with non-Federal entity's written travel reimbursement policies. Additionally, for Federal awards, the Uniform Guidance requires a written policy for the procurement requirements outlined in 2 CFR § 200.318(c)(1), 2 CFR § 200.318(c)(2), and 2 CFR § 200.320(B). The Board of Health did not have written policies as required by the Uniform Guidance as they were not aware of the requirements. The failure to implement written policies as required by the Uniform Guidance could result in noncompliance with the District’s federal programs. The Board of Health should adopt written policies in accordance with the Uniform Guidance to help improve internal controls over federal compliance.
Internal control deficiency and noncompliance over procurement and suspension and debarment. Identification of the federal program: Assistance Listing Number 21.027: • COVID-19 – Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds • U.S. Department of the Treasury • Federal award identification number – Not Applicable • Federal award year – March 3, 2021 to December 1, 2024 • Pass-through entity – State of Georgia Criteria or specific requirement (including statutory, regulatory or other citation): Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.303 Internal controls. The non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 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; (c) (1) the non-Federal entity must maintain written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award and administration of contracts. Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.318 General procurement standards (i) the non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.319 Competition (a) All procurement transactions for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award must be conducted in a manner providing full and open competition consistent with the standards of this section and 200.320. Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.320 Methods of procurement to be followed. The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or sub-award: (a) (2) Small purchases – (i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity; (b) Formal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or services under a Federal financial assistance award exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal procurement methods are required. Formal procurement methods require following documented procedures. Formal procurement methods also require public advertising unless a non-competitive procurement can be used in accordance with 200.319 or paragraph (c) of this section. The following formal methods of procurement are used for procurement of property or services above the simplified acquisition threshold or a value below the simplified acquisition threshold the non-Federal entity determines to be appropriate – (1) Sealed bids. A procurement method in which bids are publicly solicited and a firm fixed-price contract (lump sum or unit price) is awarded to the responsible bidder whose bid, conforming with all the material terms and conditions of the invitation for bids, is the lowest in price; (2) Proposals. A procurement method in which either a fixed price or cost-reimbursement type contract is awarded. Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.320 Methods of procurement to be followed. (c) Noncompetitive procurement. There are specific circumstances in which noncompetitive procurement can be used. Noncompetitive procurement can only be awarded if one or more of the following circumstances apply: (1) The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which does not exceed the micro-purchase threshold; (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. Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.324 Contract cost and price. (a) The non-Federal entity must perform a cost or price analysis in connection with every procurement action in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold including contract modifications. The method and degree of analysis is dependent on the facts surrounding the particular procurement situation, but as a starting point, the non-Federal entity must make independent estimates before receiving bids or proposals. Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart C 200.214 Suspension and debarment. Non-Federal entities are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations that restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter I, Part 180, Subpart C 180.300 What must I do before I enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier? When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You do this by: (a) checking SAM Exclusions; (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. Condition: During our testing over procurement, we observed management did not have documented procurement procedures that conformed to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR section 200.318 to 200.327 and written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award and administration of contracts. Management did not have internal controls in place over small purchase procurements to ensure price or rate quotations were obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources, formal procurements to ensure sealed bids or proposals were obtained through public advertising, and completion of a cost or price analysis in connection with all procurement actions exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold. Management did not maintain records for procurements to document 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. In addition, during our testing over suspension and debarment, we observed management did not have documented suspension and debarment procedures and did not have internal controls in place to ensure vendors were searched for suspension and debarment at the time of vendor selection. Cause: Management did not have internal controls in place over the compliance requirements as stated in the criteria or specific requirement section above. Effect or potential effect: Procurements were not supported by internal controls and could potentially include unreasonable prices or rates. In addition, if a search for suspension and debarment is not conducted, the entity could contract with vendors that are suspended or debarred. Questioned costs: $917,218 – Assistance Listing Number 21.027 – Federal award identification number – Not Applicable Questioned costs were computed as the entire population of procurement transactions subject to small purchase, formal procurement, and suspension and debarment compliance requirements. Questioned costs means an amount, expended or received from a Federal award, that (1) is noncompliant or suspected noncompliant with Federal statutes, regulations, or the terms and conditions of the Federal award or (2) at the time of the audit, lacked adequate documentation to support compliance. Context: During our testing over procurements, we obtained a listing of expenditures that included $917,218 of procurement transactions subject to small purchase, formal procurement, and suspension and debarment compliance requirements. We observed management did not have internal controls in place to ensure the compliance requirements as stated in the criteria or specific requirement section above were performed. Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: No. Recommendation: Management should create documented procurement procedures that conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR section 200.318 through 200.327 and written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award and administration of contracts. Management should develop and implement internal controls over small purchase procurements to ensure price or rate quotations are obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources, formal procurements to ensure sealed bids or proposals are obtained through public advertising, and completion of a cost or price analysis in connection with all procurement actions exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold. Management should maintain records for procurements to document 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. Management should create documented suspension and debarment procedures and develop and implement internal controls to ensure vendors were searched for suspension and debarment at the time of vendor selection. Management should review the procurements identified as questioned costs to identify if any improper payments were made to the entity. Views of responsible officials: We agree with the finding that internal controls were not sufficient to maintain compliance with federal procurement standards under Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.318 to 200.327 for a non-federal entity. However, the funds were expended for the intended purpose of the federal award. The Company is committed to implementing internal controls to ensure procurement related to federal awards follow 2 CFR section 200.318 to 200.327. The Company will update the procurement policy to ensure it complies with the requirements of 2 CFR section 200.318 through 200.327, that includes the written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest, governing the actions of its employees who select, award and administer procurement contracts. This policy will include procedures to ensure proper procurement for small purchases to ensure sufficient price quotations are obtained from the required number of qualified sources, proper sealed bids or proposals are obtained through public advertising, an appropriate cost or price analysis is performed for procurement actions exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold, documentation is retained, and proper oversight is exercised to demonstrate compliance with 2 CFR section 200.318 through 200.327. While the Company did not perform a check of each vendor against the SAM Exclusions prior to selecting a vendor, the Company has procedures in place to ensure the vendors are approved by Corporate purchasing and in good standing, which limits the risk of conflict of interest between employees and vendors, and contracting with a vendor who is suspended or debarred from federal related contracting. Further, the Company confirmed the vendors that were contracted with were not included on the SAM Exclusions listing.
Internal control deficiency and noncompliance over procurement and suspension and debarment. Identification of the federal program: Assistance Listing Number 84.116Z: • Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education • U.S. Department of Education • Federal award identification number – P116Z230323 • Federal award year – June 1, 2023 to May 31, 2026 Criteria or specific requirement (including statutory, regulatory or other citation): Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.303 Internal controls. The non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 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; (c) (1) the non-Federal entity must maintain written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award and administration of contracts. Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.318 General procurement standards (i) the non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.319 Competition (a) All procurement transactions for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award must be conducted in a manner providing full and open competition consistent with the standards of this section and 200.320. Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.320 Methods of procurement to be followed. The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or sub-award: (a) (2) Small purchases – (i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.320 Methods of procurement to be followed. (c) Noncompetitive procurement. There are specific circumstances in which noncompetitive procurement can be used. Noncompetitive procurement can only be awarded if one or more of the following circumstances apply: (1) The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which does not exceed the micro-purchase threshold; (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. Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart C 200.214 Suspension and debarment. Non-Federal entities are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations that restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter I, Part 180, Subpart C 180.300 What must I do before I enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier? When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You do this by: (a) checking SAM Exclusions; (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. Condition: During our testing over procurement, we observed management did not have documented procurement procedures that conformed to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR section 200.318 to 200.327 and written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award and administration of contracts. Management did not have internal controls in place over small purchase procurements to ensure price or rate quotations were obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. Management did not maintain records for procurements to document 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. In addition, during our testing over suspension and debarment, we observed management did not have documented suspension and debarment procedures and did not have internal controls in place to ensure vendors were searched for suspension and debarment at the time of vendor selection. Cause: Management did not have internal controls in place over the compliance requirements as stated in the criteria or specific requirement section above. Effect or potential effect: Procurements were not supported by internal controls and could potentially include unreasonable prices or rates. In addition, if a search for suspension and debarment is not conducted, the entity could contract with vendors that are suspended or debarred. Questioned costs: $153,169 – Assistance Listing Number 84.116Z – Federal award identification number – P116Z230323 Questioned costs were computed as the entire population of procurement transactions subject to small purchase and suspension and debarment compliance requirements. Questioned costs means an amount, expended or received from a Federal award, that (1) is noncompliant or suspected noncompliant with Federal statutes, regulations, or the terms and conditions of the Federal award or (2) at the time of the audit, lacked adequate documentation to support compliance. Context: During our testing over procurements, we obtained a listing of expenditures that included $153,169 of procurement transactions subject to small purchase and suspension and debarment compliance requirements. We observed management did not have internal controls in place to ensure the compliance requirements as stated in the criteria or specific requirement section above were performed. Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: No. Recommendation: Management should create documented procurement procedures that conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR section 200.318 through 200.327 and written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award and administration of contracts. Management should develop and implement internal controls over small purchase procurements to ensure price or rate quotations are obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. Management should maintain records for procurements to document 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. Management should create documented suspension and debarment procedures and develop and implement internal controls to ensure vendors were searched for suspension and debarment at the time of vendor selection. Management should review the procurements identified as questioned costs to identify if any improper payments were made to the entity. Views of responsible officials: We agree with the finding that internal controls were not sufficient to maintain compliance with federal procurement standards under Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.318 to 200.327 for a non-federal entity. However, the funds were expended for the intended purpose of the federal award. The Company is committed to implementing internal controls to ensure procurement related to federal awards follow 2 CFR section 200.318 to 200.327. The Company will update the procurement policy to ensure it complies with the requirements of 2 CFR section 200.318 through 200.327, that includes the written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest, governing the actions of its employees who select, award and administer procurement contracts. This policy will include procedures to ensure proper procurement for small purchases to ensure sufficient price quotations are obtained from the required number of qualified sources, proper sealed bids or proposals are obtained through public advertising, an appropriate cost or price analysis is performed for procurement actions exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold, documentation is retained, and proper oversight is exercised to demonstrate compliance with 2 CFR section 200.318 through 200.327. While the Company did not perform a check of each vendor against the SAM Exclusions prior to selecting a vendor, the Company has procedures in place to ensure the vendors are approved by Corporate purchasing and in good standing, which limits the risk of conflict of interest between employees and vendors, and contracting with a vendor who is suspended or debarred from federal related contracting. Further, the Company confirmed the vendors that were contracted with were not included on the SAM Exclusions listing.
2024-003 Federal Grants Management - Procurement Federal Agency: Department of the Treasury Federal Program Name: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Assistance Listing Number: 21.027 Pass-Through Agency: Michigan Department of Treasury Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Other Matter Criteria or Specific Requirement: Per 2 CFR §200.318–§200.320, non-federal entities must use documented procurement procedures that reflect applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations. These procedures must include methods for procurement, thresholds, and documentation requirements such as solicitation of quotes, sealed bids, and board approvals. Condition: The County has established policies and procedures in place including related controls over procurement. However, documentation is not retained to ensure compliance with requirements of Uniform Guidance. Questioned Costs: None. Context: While performing audit procedures, it was noted that the County did not follow established policies regarding procurement. Several transactions out of the selected samples lacked appropriate documentation. This was a statistically valid sample. Cause: While the County has policies over procurement, it did not consistently follow its internal procurement procedures or Uniform Guidance for documentation retention. Effect: Without sufficient documentation, the County cannot demonstrate that procurement transactions were conducted in accordance with Uniform Guidance. This increases the risk of noncompliance and potential disallowance of costs. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: We recommend the County review and follow their procurement policy. View of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the finding.
FINDING 2024-002 Subject: COVID-19 - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds - Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of the Treasury Federal Program: COVID-19 - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Assistance Listings Number: 21.027 Federal Award Number and Year (or Other Identifying Number): FY2023 Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters Condition and Context An effective internal control system was not in place at the City to ensure compliance with the requirements related to the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement. Suspension and Debarment Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with COVID-19 - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) award funds, recipients are required to verify that such beneficiaries are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the Excluded Parties List System (EPLS), collecting certification from that person, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. Two vendors were selected for testing that equaled or exceeded $25,000 paid from SLFRF funds during the audit period was identified, totaling $166,579. For one of the two vendors, the City did not verify the suspension and debarment status prior to payment. INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 16 CITY OF MARION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ." 2 CFR 200.318(a) states: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non- Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327." 2 CFR 180.300 states: "When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You do this by: (a) Checking the ELPS; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person." Cause The City's management had not developed a system of internal controls that would have ensured compliance with the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement. The City did not obtain evidence of one vendor's verification for suspension and debarment, since it is up to the individual departments to complete that verification. Effect The failure to establish an effective internal control system enabled material noncompliance to go undetected. As a result, adequate documentation was not retained for suspension and debarment. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the City. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 17 CITY OF MARION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) Recommendation We recommended that management of the City establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure all required documentation related to suspension and debarment is maintained. We also recommended that the City perform suspension and debarment procedures on all vendors with purchases above $25,000 and ensure that documentation is maintained to show the verification was performed. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
City of Montesano January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024 2024-001 The City did not have adequate internal controls in place to ensure compliance with federal procurement requirements. Assistance Listing Number and Title: 20.205 – Highway Planning and Construction Federal Grantor Name: Federal Highway Administration Federal Award/Contract Number: N/A Pass-through Entity Name: Washington State Department of Transportation Pass-through Award/Contract Number: STUPUS-5189(001), TAPUS-5185(001), STBGUS-5189(001) Known Questioned Cost Amount: $0 Prior Year Audit Finding: N/A Background During fiscal year 2024, the City spent $1,608,480 in federal funding from the Federal Highway Administration through the Highway Planning and Construction program. This program gives funding to help state and local government agencies plan and develop an integrated, interconnected transportation system. The City used this funding for the Lake Sylvia Sidewalk – Phase 1, West Pioneer Avenue – Main to 4th, and West Pioneer 6th to 7th projects. Federal regulations require recipients to establish, document and maintain effective internal controls that ensure compliance with program requirements. These controls include understanding program requirements and monitoring the effectiveness of established controls. Federal regulations require recipients to follow their own documented procurement procedures, which must conform to the Uniform Guidance procurement standards found in 2 CFR 200.318-327. The procedures must reflect the most restrictive of federal, state or local procurement thresholds and methods when using federal funds. Additionally, federal regulations require recipients to maintain written standards of conduct that cover conflicts of interest and govern the actions of employees involved in selecting, awarding or administrating contracts procured with federal funds. Description of Condition Our audit found the City did not have adequate internal controls for ensuring compliance with federal procurement requirements. The City did not have a procurement policy to ensure compliance with federal requirements. Furthermore, the City’s standards of conduct policy covering conflicts of interest for employees or agents who award contracts did not include all elements federal regulations require. We consider this deficiency in internal controls to be a significant deficiency. Cause of Condition The City relied on the Washington State Department of Transportation’s Local Agency Guidelines (LAG) Manual. The City was required to follow these guidelines under the award’s terms and conditions. Staff were unaware of the requirement to have their own written policies and procedures over procurement and standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest for employees and agents. Effect of Condition Without written policies and procedures, the City is at a higher risk of not complying with following the most restrictive of federal, state or local procurement methods and standards of conduct requirements when using federal funds to procure contractors. Although the City did not have policies over procurement in place, it followed the procurement requirements in the Washington State Department of Transportation’s LAG Manual and properly procured the contractor for the projects we reviewed. Recommendation We recommend the City strengthen its internal controls to ensure required policies and procedures are in place when procuring with federal funds, as required by Uniform Guidance. City’s Response The City appreciates the auditor’s review of our use of federal funds under the Highway Planning and Construction program. We respectfully disagree with the characterization of this issue as a significant deficiency in internal controls. As a Non-Certified Acceptance (Non-CA) agency, the City of Montesano is required to administer federal projects under the direct supervision of the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Local Programs. The Project Administration Agreement for the West Pioneer Avenue – Main to 4th project (and similar agreements for other federally funded projects) makes clear that the City cannot proceed with procurement, contract award, right-of-way, or construction actions without concurrence and approval from the WSDOT Local Programs Engineer. Specifically, the agreement requires WSDOT approval for: • Consultant solicitation, advertisement, and selection; • Concurrence of consultant agreements and supplements; • Review and concurrence of contract plans, specifications, and estimates; • Approval of bid advertisements and addenda; • Concurrence before contract award to the lowest responsive bidder; and • Authorization of change orders during construction. This framework provides multiple layers of review and documentation, ensuring that the City’s procurements comply with federal, state, and local requirements. WSDOT Local Programs concurred with all procurements related to the projects reviewed, confirming compliance with FHWA and Uniform Guidance procurement standards. While the City did not maintain a stand-alone written procurement policy or conflict-of-interest policy that restated these federal provisions, the City’s reliance on the WSDOT oversight structure and Local Agency Guidelines ensured effective internal controls. The audit itself confirmed that the City’s contractors were properly procured under applicable rules. Auditor’s Remarks We thank the City for its cooperation throughout the audit and the steps it is taking to address these concerns. We will review the status of the District’s corrective action during our next audit. Applicable Laws and Regulations Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance), section 516, Audit findings, establishes reporting requirements for audit findings. Title 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Guidance, section 303, Internal controls, describes the requirements for auditees to maintain internal controls over federal programs and comply with federal program requirements. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants defines significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in its Codification of Statements on Auditing Standards, section 935, Compliance Audits, paragraph 11. Title 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Guidance, section 318, General procurement standards, establishes requirements for written procedures. Title 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Guidance, section 320, Methods of procurement to be followed, establishes requirements for procuring goods and services, including noncompetitive procurement.
City of Montesano January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024 2024-001 The City did not have adequate internal controls in place to ensure compliance with federal procurement requirements. Assistance Listing Number and Title: 20.205 – Highway Planning and Construction Federal Grantor Name: Federal Highway Administration Federal Award/Contract Number: N/A Pass-through Entity Name: Washington State Department of Transportation Pass-through Award/Contract Number: STUPUS-5189(001), TAPUS-5185(001), STBGUS-5189(001) Known Questioned Cost Amount: $0 Prior Year Audit Finding: N/A Background During fiscal year 2024, the City spent $1,608,480 in federal funding from the Federal Highway Administration through the Highway Planning and Construction program. This program gives funding to help state and local government agencies plan and develop an integrated, interconnected transportation system. The City used this funding for the Lake Sylvia Sidewalk – Phase 1, West Pioneer Avenue – Main to 4th, and West Pioneer 6th to 7th projects. Federal regulations require recipients to establish, document and maintain effective internal controls that ensure compliance with program requirements. These controls include understanding program requirements and monitoring the effectiveness of established controls. Federal regulations require recipients to follow their own documented procurement procedures, which must conform to the Uniform Guidance procurement standards found in 2 CFR 200.318-327. The procedures must reflect the most restrictive of federal, state or local procurement thresholds and methods when using federal funds. Additionally, federal regulations require recipients to maintain written standards of conduct that cover conflicts of interest and govern the actions of employees involved in selecting, awarding or administrating contracts procured with federal funds. Description of Condition Our audit found the City did not have adequate internal controls for ensuring compliance with federal procurement requirements. The City did not have a procurement policy to ensure compliance with federal requirements. Furthermore, the City’s standards of conduct policy covering conflicts of interest for employees or agents who award contracts did not include all elements federal regulations require. We consider this deficiency in internal controls to be a significant deficiency. Cause of Condition The City relied on the Washington State Department of Transportation’s Local Agency Guidelines (LAG) Manual. The City was required to follow these guidelines under the award’s terms and conditions. Staff were unaware of the requirement to have their own written policies and procedures over procurement and standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest for employees and agents. Effect of Condition Without written policies and procedures, the City is at a higher risk of not complying with following the most restrictive of federal, state or local procurement methods and standards of conduct requirements when using federal funds to procure contractors. Although the City did not have policies over procurement in place, it followed the procurement requirements in the Washington State Department of Transportation’s LAG Manual and properly procured the contractor for the projects we reviewed. Recommendation We recommend the City strengthen its internal controls to ensure required policies and procedures are in place when procuring with federal funds, as required by Uniform Guidance. City’s Response The City appreciates the auditor’s review of our use of federal funds under the Highway Planning and Construction program. We respectfully disagree with the characterization of this issue as a significant deficiency in internal controls. As a Non-Certified Acceptance (Non-CA) agency, the City of Montesano is required to administer federal projects under the direct supervision of the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Local Programs. The Project Administration Agreement for the West Pioneer Avenue – Main to 4th project (and similar agreements for other federally funded projects) makes clear that the City cannot proceed with procurement, contract award, right-of-way, or construction actions without concurrence and approval from the WSDOT Local Programs Engineer. Specifically, the agreement requires WSDOT approval for: • Consultant solicitation, advertisement, and selection; • Concurrence of consultant agreements and supplements; • Review and concurrence of contract plans, specifications, and estimates; • Approval of bid advertisements and addenda; • Concurrence before contract award to the lowest responsive bidder; and • Authorization of change orders during construction. This framework provides multiple layers of review and documentation, ensuring that the City’s procurements comply with federal, state, and local requirements. WSDOT Local Programs concurred with all procurements related to the projects reviewed, confirming compliance with FHWA and Uniform Guidance procurement standards. While the City did not maintain a stand-alone written procurement policy or conflict-of-interest policy that restated these federal provisions, the City’s reliance on the WSDOT oversight structure and Local Agency Guidelines ensured effective internal controls. The audit itself confirmed that the City’s contractors were properly procured under applicable rules. Auditor’s Remarks We thank the City for its cooperation throughout the audit and the steps it is taking to address these concerns. We will review the status of the District’s corrective action during our next audit. Applicable Laws and Regulations Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance), section 516, Audit findings, establishes reporting requirements for audit findings. Title 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Guidance, section 303, Internal controls, describes the requirements for auditees to maintain internal controls over federal programs and comply with federal program requirements. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants defines significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in its Codification of Statements on Auditing Standards, section 935, Compliance Audits, paragraph 11. Title 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Guidance, section 318, General procurement standards, establishes requirements for written procedures. Title 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Guidance, section 320, Methods of procurement to be followed, establishes requirements for procuring goods and services, including noncompetitive procurement.
City of Montesano January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024 2024-001 The City did not have adequate internal controls in place to ensure compliance with federal procurement requirements. Assistance Listing Number and Title: 20.205 – Highway Planning and Construction Federal Grantor Name: Federal Highway Administration Federal Award/Contract Number: N/A Pass-through Entity Name: Washington State Department of Transportation Pass-through Award/Contract Number: STUPUS-5189(001), TAPUS-5185(001), STBGUS-5189(001) Known Questioned Cost Amount: $0 Prior Year Audit Finding: N/A Background During fiscal year 2024, the City spent $1,608,480 in federal funding from the Federal Highway Administration through the Highway Planning and Construction program. This program gives funding to help state and local government agencies plan and develop an integrated, interconnected transportation system. The City used this funding for the Lake Sylvia Sidewalk – Phase 1, West Pioneer Avenue – Main to 4th, and West Pioneer 6th to 7th projects. Federal regulations require recipients to establish, document and maintain effective internal controls that ensure compliance with program requirements. These controls include understanding program requirements and monitoring the effectiveness of established controls. Federal regulations require recipients to follow their own documented procurement procedures, which must conform to the Uniform Guidance procurement standards found in 2 CFR 200.318-327. The procedures must reflect the most restrictive of federal, state or local procurement thresholds and methods when using federal funds. Additionally, federal regulations require recipients to maintain written standards of conduct that cover conflicts of interest and govern the actions of employees involved in selecting, awarding or administrating contracts procured with federal funds. Description of Condition Our audit found the City did not have adequate internal controls for ensuring compliance with federal procurement requirements. The City did not have a procurement policy to ensure compliance with federal requirements. Furthermore, the City’s standards of conduct policy covering conflicts of interest for employees or agents who award contracts did not include all elements federal regulations require. We consider this deficiency in internal controls to be a significant deficiency. Cause of Condition The City relied on the Washington State Department of Transportation’s Local Agency Guidelines (LAG) Manual. The City was required to follow these guidelines under the award’s terms and conditions. Staff were unaware of the requirement to have their own written policies and procedures over procurement and standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest for employees and agents. Effect of Condition Without written policies and procedures, the City is at a higher risk of not complying with following the most restrictive of federal, state or local procurement methods and standards of conduct requirements when using federal funds to procure contractors. Although the City did not have policies over procurement in place, it followed the procurement requirements in the Washington State Department of Transportation’s LAG Manual and properly procured the contractor for the projects we reviewed. Recommendation We recommend the City strengthen its internal controls to ensure required policies and procedures are in place when procuring with federal funds, as required by Uniform Guidance. City’s Response The City appreciates the auditor’s review of our use of federal funds under the Highway Planning and Construction program. We respectfully disagree with the characterization of this issue as a significant deficiency in internal controls. As a Non-Certified Acceptance (Non-CA) agency, the City of Montesano is required to administer federal projects under the direct supervision of the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Local Programs. The Project Administration Agreement for the West Pioneer Avenue – Main to 4th project (and similar agreements for other federally funded projects) makes clear that the City cannot proceed with procurement, contract award, right-of-way, or construction actions without concurrence and approval from the WSDOT Local Programs Engineer. Specifically, the agreement requires WSDOT approval for: • Consultant solicitation, advertisement, and selection; • Concurrence of consultant agreements and supplements; • Review and concurrence of contract plans, specifications, and estimates; • Approval of bid advertisements and addenda; • Concurrence before contract award to the lowest responsive bidder; and • Authorization of change orders during construction. This framework provides multiple layers of review and documentation, ensuring that the City’s procurements comply with federal, state, and local requirements. WSDOT Local Programs concurred with all procurements related to the projects reviewed, confirming compliance with FHWA and Uniform Guidance procurement standards. While the City did not maintain a stand-alone written procurement policy or conflict-of-interest policy that restated these federal provisions, the City’s reliance on the WSDOT oversight structure and Local Agency Guidelines ensured effective internal controls. The audit itself confirmed that the City’s contractors were properly procured under applicable rules. Auditor’s Remarks We thank the City for its cooperation throughout the audit and the steps it is taking to address these concerns. We will review the status of the District’s corrective action during our next audit. Applicable Laws and Regulations Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance), section 516, Audit findings, establishes reporting requirements for audit findings. Title 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Guidance, section 303, Internal controls, describes the requirements for auditees to maintain internal controls over federal programs and comply with federal program requirements. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants defines significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in its Codification of Statements on Auditing Standards, section 935, Compliance Audits, paragraph 11. Title 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Guidance, section 318, General procurement standards, establishes requirements for written procedures. Title 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Guidance, section 320, Methods of procurement to be followed, establishes requirements for procuring goods and services, including noncompetitive procurement.
Finding 2024-01: Considered a significant deficiency. Criteria: Uniform Guidance (2 CFR §§200.302–303 and 200.318–320) requires non-federal entities to establish and maintain effective internal controls and written policies and procedures to ensure compliance with federal award requirements. These policies must be sufficiently detailed to provide consistent and proper administration of federal programs Condition: As part of our audit of compliance with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance for the year ended December 31, 2024, we noted that West Michigan Food Processing Association does not have formal, written policies and procedures in place related to the administration of its federal awards. Specifically, we noted the absence of written procedures addressing: ➢ Financial management systems (including allowable costs and cash management) ➢ Procurement standards ➢ Subrecipient monitoring ➢ Internal controls over compliance ➢ Conflicts of interest Effect: Without formal written policies and procedures, there is an increased risk that federal program requirements may not be followed consistently. This could result in noncompliance with federal regulations, mismanagement of federal funds, or potential questioned costs. Additionally, the absence of documentation limits the ability to demonstrate compliance during audit or grantor review processes. Cause: The absence of written policies appears to result from the entity historically depending on established practices and staff knowledge, rather than formally documenting procedures as required under Uniform Guidance. Recommendation: We recommend that West Michigan Food Processing Association develop and implement comprehensive written policies and procedures to address the requirements of the Uniform Guidance. These should be tailored to the Association’s structure and operations and cover all applicable federal compliance areas. Management should also establish a process to periodically review and update these documents to ensure continued compliance. Response: West Michigan Food Processing Association concurs with the facts of the finding and is implementing procedures to prevent this in the future.
Finding 2024-01: Considered a significant deficiency. Criteria: Uniform Guidance (2 CFR §§200.302–303 and 200.318–320) requires non-federal entities to establish and maintain effective internal controls and written policies and procedures to ensure compliance with federal award requirements. These policies must be sufficiently detailed to provide consistent and proper administration of federal programs Condition: As part of our audit of compliance with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance for the year ended December 31, 2024, we noted that West Michigan Food Processing Association does not have formal, written policies and procedures in place related to the administration of its federal awards. Specifically, we noted the absence of written procedures addressing: ➢ Financial management systems (including allowable costs and cash management) ➢ Procurement standards ➢ Subrecipient monitoring ➢ Internal controls over compliance ➢ Conflicts of interest Effect: Without formal written policies and procedures, there is an increased risk that federal program requirements may not be followed consistently. This could result in noncompliance with federal regulations, mismanagement of federal funds, or potential questioned costs. Additionally, the absence of documentation limits the ability to demonstrate compliance during audit or grantor review processes. Cause: The absence of written policies appears to result from the entity historically depending on established practices and staff knowledge, rather than formally documenting procedures as required under Uniform Guidance. Recommendation: We recommend that West Michigan Food Processing Association develop and implement comprehensive written policies and procedures to address the requirements of the Uniform Guidance. These should be tailored to the Association’s structure and operations and cover all applicable federal compliance areas. Management should also establish a process to periodically review and update these documents to ensure continued compliance. Response: West Michigan Food Processing Association concurs with the facts of the finding and is implementing procedures to prevent this in the future.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.318(a), entities must use their 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 the Uniform Guidance. Condition: During our audit, we noted that the entity does not have a documented procurement policy. As a result, there is no formal guidance to ensure that procurement transactions are conducted in accordance with applicable federal regulations, including requirements related to full and open competition, appropriate procurement methods based on dollar thresholds, and verification of suspension and debarment. Cause: While Social Enterprise Properties’ management is aware of the procurement policies and procedures in the Uniform Guidance, management had not documented formal policies and procedures. Effect or potential effect: Without a documented procurement policy, there is an increased risk of noncompliance with federal procurement standards, including inappropriate procurement methods, lack of required competition, or failure to check for suspension or debarment. This could lead to questioned costs or disallowed expenditures under federal awards. Recommendation: We recommend that Social Enterprise Properties’ develop and adopt a written procurement policy that is consistent with the requirements of 2 CFR 200 Part D. The policy should outline thresholds, procurement methods, and procedures for verifying suspension and debarment. Questioned costs: None identified. Views of responsible officials: Management has developed and put in place a written procurement policy effective May 1, 2025.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.318(a), entities must use their 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 the Uniform Guidance. Condition: During our audit, we noted that the entity does not have a documented procurement policy. As a result, there is no formal guidance to ensure that procurement transactions are conducted in accordance with applicable federal regulations, including requirements related to full and open competition, appropriate procurement methods based on dollar thresholds, and verification of suspension and debarment. Cause: While Social Enterprise Properties’ management is aware of the procurement policies and procedures in the Uniform Guidance, management had not documented formal policies and procedures. Effect or potential effect: Without a documented procurement policy, there is an increased risk of noncompliance with federal procurement standards, including inappropriate procurement methods, lack of required competition, or failure to check for suspension or debarment. This could lead to questioned costs or disallowed expenditures under federal awards. Recommendation: We recommend that Social Enterprise Properties’ develop and adopt a written procurement policy that is consistent with the requirements of 2 CFR 200 Part D. The policy should outline thresholds, procurement methods, and procedures for verifying suspension and debarment. Questioned costs: None identified. Views of responsible officials: Management has developed and put in place a written procurement policy effective May 1, 2025.
Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Instance of Noncompliance Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Defense Federal Program Name: Conservation and Rehabilitation of Natural Resources on Military Installations Assistance Listing Number: 12.005 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: H79TI083313 - 2020 Award Period: September 28, 2020 through September 27, 2025 Criteria or specific requirement: 2 CFR 200.320 requires non-federal entities to have and use documented procurement procedures. 2 CFR 200.318(i) states that "the non-Federal entity must maintain a record sufficient to detail the history of procurement”. Condition: A formal procurement policy was not adopted until partway through FY24. One procurement lacked adequate documentation to support the history and reasoning behind the procurement. Questioned costs: $3,729 known questioned costs. Context: Internal procurement policies were updated to match UG requirements after FY23 audit procedures identified deficiencies. The new policies were adopted on April 8, 2024, and then amended further on August 1, 2024, which was approximately two months before the final audit report was issued. One of seven procurements tested lacked adequate supporting documentation to support the history and reasoning behind the procurement and one additional selected procurement did not have adequate evidence of internal controls to support the procurement. These procurements were both small purchases that were procured in February and March 2024, respectively, prior to the adoption of the final procurement policies. Cause: Prior to completing the prior year’s audit, staff were not aware of the specific compliance requirements and procedures for procurement. Effect: Purchases may occur that do not follow the procurement standards as required by Uniform Guidance and could lead to expenditure of federal funds that are not suitable or preferrable to the federal program. Repeat finding: The finding is a repeat of a finding immediately in the prior year. The prior year finding number was 2023-002. Recommendation: CLA recommends regular review of the Organization's procurement policies to ensure they continue to meet procurement standards, as set by Uniform Guidance, and they continue to be consistently implemented. CLA also recommends reviewing internal controls surrounding procurements to ensure they are sufficient to prevent noncompliance. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Department of the Treasury, Passed through the State of Michigan Federal Financial Assistance Listing 21.029, CV0019120, 2024 COVID-19 – Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Material Noncompliance Criteria – Uniform Guidance and 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326 set forth the procurement standards non-federal entities other than states must follow when operating federal programs and the procurement procedures required. Condition – In our testing of procurement, suspension, and debarment it was identified that the Cooperative’s written policy did not address the requirements of 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. In addition, the Cooperative did not follow procurement, suspension, and debarment procedures required under the Uniform Guidance prior to entering into contracts with vendors. Cause – Lack of oversight, awareness, or understanding of all of the specific requirements under the Uniform Guidance and applicable CFR sections, and controls were not adequately designed to ensure compliance with all of these requirements. Effect – A lack of compliant policies and procedures increases the overall risk of non-compliance. Questioned Costs – None reported. Context/Sampling – Overall procurement, suspension, and debarment process. Repeat Finding from Prior Years – No. Recommendation – We recommend that management establish a written policy that is in compliance with all of the procurement requirements for federal programs as identified in 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326 and maintain adequate supporting documentation and records to document history and methods of procurement, suspension, and debarment procedures performed to comply with these CFR sections. Views of Responsible Officials – There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Finding 2024-001: Report Review Program: 66.958 Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Federal Agency: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Award No: WIFIA-N18147WI Award Year: 2024 Criteria: OMB guidance in 2 CFR part 180, which implements Executive Orders 12549 and 12689; (2 CFR section 200.318(c)) and 48 CFR sections 52.203-13 and 52.303-16 requires quarterly reports to be reviewed by someone other than the original preparer. Condition/Context: Quarterly reports submitted were not reviewed by someone other than the preparer. The quarterly reports are both prepared and signed by the Administrative Services Manager. While the information used in preparing the reports is gathered from the City and Black & Veatch (Construction Manager) is detailed and goes through reviews prior to being provided, there is no independent review of the report prior to authorization and submittal. Two out of the four quarterly reports were tested. Our sample was not statistically valid. Cause: The water utility has had staffing changes in that the individual who has previously reviewed the reports, had gone to part time. Effect: While the underlying data used to prepare the reports is reviewed, without an independent review of the reports the report submitted may not match the underlying data. Questioned Costs: None noted. Recommendation: We recommend that management identify an individual to complete a review of quarterly reports prepared prior to submission. Management Response: While management understands the role of the review of the quarterly reports they were relying on the reviews of the underlying information during this transition.
Finding 2024-006 I. Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Identification of the federal program: Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Federal Assistance Listing Number: 14.881 Federal Program Name: Moving to Work (MTW) Demonstration Program Public and Indian Housing (Public Housing) Program Year: January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024 Program No.: IL002-01-00024D Criteria or specific requirement (including statutory, regulatory or other citation): The Uniform Guidance 2 CFR section 200.303 states, “The Non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework,” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).” The Uniform Guidance 2 CFR section 200.318, general procurement standards states “(a) Documented procurement procedures. The recipient or subrecipient must maintain and use documented procedures for procurement transactions under a Federal award or subaward, including for acquisition of property or services.” The Uniform Guidance 2 CFR section 200.319 states that “all procurement transactions under the Federal award must be conducted in a manner that provides for full and open competition and is consistent with the standards of this section and §200.320.” The Authority’s procurement policy for a cooperative (“piggyback”) procurement requires an agency contract and amendments. The Authority’s internal control procedures require procurements of more than $500,000 to have Board of Commissioners' approval. Condition: For one of nine (11.1%) procurement transactions sampled to test the Authority’s internal controls to ensure procurements are executed and documented in accordance with the Uniform Guidance procurement standards, we noted that the procurement was not approved by the Board of Commissioners and there was no executed agreement or amendment that covered fiscal year 2024. Cause: The Authority’s internal control over the review and approval of procurement transactions was not operating effectively. Effect or Potential Effect: Procurements may not be following Uniform Guidance procurement standards. Questioned Costs: A total of $3,500,000 related to Assistance Listing No. 14.881, representing the one procurement that was not approved by the Board and did not have an agreement or amendment in place that covered fiscal year 2024. Context: The one procurement totaled $3,500,000 out of nine procurement transactions sampled totaling $4,983,902. Public Housing expenditures reported in the schedule of expenditures of federal awards were $171,219,053 for the year ended December 31, 2024, representing 15.1% of total federal expenditures under Assistance Listing No. 14.881 of $1,106,629,432. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: This finding is not a repeat finding from the prior year. Recommendation: The Authority should follow its established internal control over the review and approval of procurement transactions. Views of Responsible Officials: Management concurs with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
Finding 2024-003 Agency: Department of Labor Program: Apprenticeship State Funds (AL No. 17.285) Material Weakness over Procurement Repeat Finding: No Condition: For all procurements related to the Apprenticeship State Funds, there was no documentation provided to support the rationale for the procurement method, contract type selection, contractor selection, or the basis for the contract price prior to the signing of the contract. Criteria: As provided in 2 CFR section 200.318: General procurement standards, the recipient or subrecipient must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of each procurement transaction. These records must include the rationale for the procurement method, contract type selection, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Cause: AACC does not have a policy in place to properly document Apprenticeship State Funds procurement transactions. Effect: AACC was not in compliance with the Procurement requirements in accordance with Uniform Guidance. Questioned Costs: Unknown Recommendation: We recommend AACC implements a policy to properly document their procurements for the Apprenticeship State Funds. Auditee Response and Corrective Action Plan: Management agrees with the finding. Refer to the corrective action plan on current findings in Part V of this report.
2024-004 The City did not have adequate internal controls and did not comply with federal procurement requirements. Assistance Listing Number and Title: 21.027 – COVID-19 – Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Federal Grantor Name: U.S. Department of the Treasury Federal Award/Contract Number: N/A Pass-through Entity Name: Washington Department of Commerce Pass-through Award/Contract Number: 24-4619D105 Known Questioned Cost Amount: $0 Prior Year Audit Finding: N/A Background The purpose of the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) program is to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic’s negative effects on public health and the economy, provide premium pay to essential workers during the pandemic, provide government services to the extent COVID-19 caused a reduction in revenues collected, and make necessary investments in water, sewer or broadband infrastructure. In 2024, the City spent $735,630 in program funds to contract out the operation of its homeless shelter. Federal regulations require recipients to establish and maintain internal controls that ensure compliance with program requirements. These controls include understanding grant requirements and monitoring the effectiveness of established controls. Procurement federal regulations require recipients to follow their own documented procedures, which must conform to the Uniform Guidance procurement standards found in 2 CFR § 200.318-327. When using federal funds to procure goods and services, governments must apply the most restrictive federal requirements, state law or local policies by obtaining quotes or following a competitive procurement process, depending on the estimated cost of the procurement activity. Description of Condition Our audit found the City’s internal controls were ineffective for ensuring the City complied with federal program requirements. The City did not follow its policy or federal requirements to obtain bids for the operation of its homeless shelter before entering into a contract. We consider this deficiency in internal controls to be a material weakness that led to material noncompliance. Cause of Condition City staff are aware of federal procurement requirements; however, procurement activity is decentralized and performed at the department level. The City experienced turnover in positions responsible for reviewing contracts and ensuring procurement requirements were met. Effect of Condition The City did not perform a competitive process for selecting a contractor it paid $735,630 with federal funds. Without effective internal controls, the City cannot demonstrate it complied with federal procurement requirements, allowed for full and open competition, and received the best price. Recommendation We recommend the City strengthen internal controls to ensure it complies with applicable procurement requirements for purchased services. City’s Response The City of Longview appreciates the thorough review provided by the State Auditor’s Office and the finding regarding issues noted. We take these matters seriously and recognize the importance of strong internal controls and following procurement policy for demonstrating compliance with federal procurement requirements and ensuring the city receives the best price for purchased services. Auditor’s Remarks We thank the City for its cooperation throughout the audit and the steps it is taking to address these concerns. We will review the status of the City’s corrective action during our next audit. Applicable Laws and Regulations Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance), section 516, Audit findings, establishes reporting requirements for audit findings. Title 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Guidance, section 303, Internal controls, describes the requirements for auditees to maintain internal controls over federal programs and comply with federal program requirements. Title 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Guidance, section 320, Methods of procurement to be followed, establishes requirements for procuring with Federal funds by nonfederal entities. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants defines significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in its Codification of Statements on Auditing Standards, section 935, Compliance Audits, paragraph 11.
Department of Treasury, State of Iowa Chief Information Officer, Federal Financial Assistance Listing 21.027, NOFO #007 – 433524,433385, 2024 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Procurement, Suspension & Debarment Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Material Noncompliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303(a) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award. 2 CFR 200.318 maintains that recipients must have and use documented procurement policies and must conform procurement standards in sections 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR 200 Appendix II requires certain provisions be included in contracts if criteria are applicable. Additionally, 2 CFR 200.214 requires recipients to restrict the subawards and contract with certain parities that are debarred, suspended, or excluded from participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Condition: Testing of the federal program identified the following: - One instance where the Cooperative followed a bid process, however, the documentation was not retained to support the selection. Additionally, the contract with the vendor was missing required contract provisions in accordance with Uniform Guidance. - Two instances where the Cooperative did not follow the procurement process as detailed in the procurement policy and did not have any formal documentation or contract in place with the vendor. - Three instances where the Cooperative entered into a contract with a vendor over $25,000 and there was no review performed to ensure the vendor was not suspended or debarred. Cause: Contract provisions were not evaluated compared to Uniform Guidance contract requirements. Contracts entered were not evaluated in accordance with Uniform Guidance as it relates to suspension and debarment. Effect: Ineffective controls over this area of compliance could result in a reasonable possibility the Cooperative would be noncompliant with the compliance requirements outlined above. Additionally, the cooperative may enter into a covered transaction with a vendor that is suspended or debarred. Questioned Costs: None reported. Context/Sampling: A nonstatistical sample of 3 out of 5 vendors were selected for testing. Repeat Finding from Prior Year: No Recommendation: We recommend that management implement procedures related to the review of contracts to ensure the procurement methods are being followed and to ensure contracts include the required Uniform Guidance provisions. Also, management should incorporate procedures to ensure vendors are not suspended or debarred from doing business with the federal government. Documentation should be retained to provide evidence that procedures were completed. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding.
FINDING 2024-001 Subject: Federal Transit Cluster - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of Transportation Federal Program: Federal Transit Formula Grants Assistance Listings Number: 20.507 Federal Award Number and Year (or Other Identifying Number): IN-2022-018, IN-2024-003-00, IN-2018-028-06 Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters Condition and Context Procurement Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000. However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds: micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase threshold but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. The City has a process in place that requires the Board of Public Works to approve bids and contracts, but the process did not operate effectively for one of three vendors tested who were subject to the small-purchase procurement requirements. One vendor was identified that fell within the small purchase threshold. Purchases from the vendor totaled $129,259. As such, price or rate quotations from an adequate number of qualified sources should have been obtained. However, the City did not obtain price or rate quotations for the purchases nor was full and open competition provided for the vendor. Additionally, there was no documentation available to support the rationale to limit competition nor was a contract awarded for the services provided. Suspension and Debarment Prior to entering into covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients are required to verify that vendors are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the SAMs exclusions, collecting a certification from that person, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. Inquiry and fieldwork determined that the City had a process in place to verify that vendors were not suspended or debarred but the process was not operating effectively. There was no documented oversight, review, or approval process to ensure the process was completed timely. INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 14 CITY OF ANDERSON SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) Two vendors were selected for suspension and debarment testing. We were able to determine that suspension and debarment searches on the SAM.GOV website were made, but we could not determine that the searches occurred prior to contracting with the vendor. For the first vendor, the documentation provided indicated that the search for suspension and debarment on the SAM.GOV website was done subsequent to the purchase of the equipment. For the second vendor, the date of the search on the SAM.GOV website could not be determined. Additionally, the suspension and debarment verification was done by one employee without evidence of oversite and review. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was a systemic issue throughout the audit period for the federal awards IN-2022-018, IN-2024-003-00, and IN-2018-028-06. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ." 2 CFR 200.318(a) states: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non- Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327." 2 CFR 1200.10 adopts the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) guidance in subparts A through I of 2 CFR part 180, as supplemented by this part, as the Department of Transportation policies and procedures for nonprocurement suspension and debarment. 2 CFR 180.300 states: "When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You do this by: (a) Checking the SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person." INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 15 CITY OF ANDERSON SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) Cause Management had not designed or implemented a system of internal controls that would have ensured procedures were in place that would comply with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award in relation to the requirements of the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement. For the small purchases procurement requirement, several purchases from one vendor had occurred without the City noticing the small purchases threshold had been exceeded. For the requirement to check the suspension and debarment status, the City failed to document the date searched in one case and saved a search dated after the award date in another case. Effect The failure to design and implement an effective internal control system enabled noncompliance to remain undetected. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the reduction of future federal funding to the City. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified.
FINDING 2024-002 Subject: COVID-19 - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of the Treasury Federal Program: COVID-19 - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Assistance Listings Number: 21.027 Federal Award Number and Year (or Other Identifying Number): SLFRP1096 Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context Each entity that accepts federal money must comply with 2 CFR 300.318, which requires each entity to have their own documented procurement procedures. The City provided a procurement policy from Title II of an employee manual that did not fully satisfy the standards of 2 CFR 200.318. The employee manual was adopted in 2004. The COVID-19 - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds were used to pay for engineering services in the amount of $301,000. These services were not publicly bid even though the dollar amount of the services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold. Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with the COVID-19 - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) award funds, recipients are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is done by checking the Excluded Parties List System (EPLS), collecting a certification from that vendor, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that vendor. INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 16 CITY OF ANDERSON SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) The City included suspension and debarment certifications with the agreements with many of the vendors who participated in the activities funded by the SLFRF funds. The City also checked the EPLS for some vendors. Evidence of compliance with the suspension and debarment verification requirements was not provided for two of four vendors selected for suspension and debarment testing. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ." 2 CFR 200.318 states in part: "(a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. . . . (c) (1) The non-Federal entity must maintain written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award and administration of contracts. . . . (i) The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of the contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. . . ." 2 CFR 200.320 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or sub-award. . . . INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 17 CITY OF ANDERSON SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) (b) Formal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or services under a Federal financial assistance award exceeds the SAT, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal procurement methods are required. Formal procurement methods require following documented procedures. Formal procurement methods also require public advertising unless a non-competitive procurement can be used in accordance with § 200.319 or paragraph (c) of this section. The following formal methods of procurement are used for procurement of property or services above the simplified acquisition threshold or a value below the simplified acquisition threshold the non-Federal entity determines to be appropriate: (1) Sealed bids. A procurement method in which bids are publicly solicited and a firm fixed-price contract (lump sum or unit price) is awarded to the responsible bidder whose bid, conforming with all the material terms and conditions of the invitation for bids, is the lowest in price. The sealed bids method is the preferred method for procuring construction, if the conditions. (i) In order for sealed bidding to be feasible, the following conditions should be present: (A) A complete, adequate, and realistic specification or purchase description is available; (B) Two or more responsible bidders are willing and able to compete effectively for the business; and (C) The procurement lends itself to a firm fixed price contract and the selection of the successful bidder can be made principally on the basis of price. (ii) If sealed bids are used, the following requirements apply: (A) Bids must be solicited from an adequate number of qualified sources, providing them sufficient response time prior to the date set for opening the bids, for local, and tribal governments, the invitation for bids must be publicly advertised; (B) The invitation for bids, which will include any specifications and pertinent attachments, must define the items or services in order for the bidder to properly respond; (C) All bids will be opened at the time and place prescribed in the invitation for bids, and for local and tribal governments, the bids must be opened publicly; (D) A firm fixed price contract award will be made in writing to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. Where specified in bidding documents, factors such as discounts, transportation cost, and life cycle costs must be considered in determining which bid is lowest. Payment discounts will only be used to determine the low bid when prior experience indicates that such discounts are usually taken advantage of; and (E) Any or all bids may be rejected if there is a sound documented reason. . . ." INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 18 CITY OF ANDERSON SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) 31 CFR 19.300 states: "When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must verify that the person with whom you do business is not excluded or disqualified. You do this by: (a) Checking the EPLS; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person if allowed by this rule; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person." Cause The City did not have adequate internal controls over procurement and suspension and debarment. The City had not adopted a formal or informal policy for procurement that meets the requirements of 2 CFR 300.318. The City did not apply its procedures over suspension and debarment uniformly with one vendor not tested for suspension and debarment due to the specific aspects of the City's grant plan that the vendor was assigned to. Effect Without establishing effective internal controls over procurement and suspension and debarment, the City cannot ensure free and open competition or that the vendors paid with federal funds are eligible to participate in federal programs and might allow for payments to suspended or debarred parties that would be unallowable. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could potentially result in the loss of future funding to the City. Recommendation We recommended that management of the City establish a formal policy on procurement that meets the standards of 2 CFR 200.318 and develop effective internal controls and procedures to ensure that all vendors in which expenditures exceed $25,000 are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into contracts or subawards.
Finding 2024-002 – Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Federal Program: Rural Health Care Services Outreach, Rural Health Network Development, and Small Health Care Provider Quality Improvement Program AL Number: 93.912 Pass-through: Not applicable Award Number: GA1RH33512 & G26RH49901 Award Year: 2020/2021 & 2023/2024 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.318(a) – Documented procurement procedures, “The recipient or subrecipient must maintain and use documented procedures for procurement transactions under a Federal award or subaward, including for acquisition of property or services.” Condition: The Organization did not follow their procurement policy for single-source justification procurement transactions. Two sample items selected for testing within the small purchase threshold were appropriately determined to be single-source items. However, in both instances, no documentation was maintained as to the reasoning for determining this. Cause: The primary underlying cause appears to be a failure to consistently follow established procurement procedures. Both procurements were appropriately determined to be single-source bids by management based on various factors. However, the Organization did not fully adhere to their procurement policy because justification for that determination was not maintained. Effect: Failure to adhere to the Organization’s procurement policies, which are designed in accordance with the Uniform Guidance, could result in the Organization not receiving competitive bids or proposals from multiple vendors, potentially leading to overpayment for contracts or services. Questioned costs: Not applicable. Context: The Organization did not provide documentation for single source justification for two of the samples selected for procurement testing. Recommendation: We recommend the Organization should implement a formal review and approval process for single-source justifications to ensure they are consistently completed, approved by appropriate management, and retained in procurement files. Maintaining complete and accurate documentation will support compliance with federal regulations, facilitate audit reviews, and reduce the risk of overpayment or challenges to procurement decisions. Management’s Response: See Corrective Action Plan.
Finding 2024-002 – Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Federal Program: Rural Health Care Services Outreach, Rural Health Network Development, and Small Health Care Provider Quality Improvement Program AL Number: 93.912 Pass-through: Not applicable Award Number: GA1RH33512 & G26RH49901 Award Year: 2020/2021 & 2023/2024 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.318(a) – Documented procurement procedures, “The recipient or subrecipient must maintain and use documented procedures for procurement transactions under a Federal award or subaward, including for acquisition of property or services.” Condition: The Organization did not follow their procurement policy for single-source justification procurement transactions. Two sample items selected for testing within the small purchase threshold were appropriately determined to be single-source items. However, in both instances, no documentation was maintained as to the reasoning for determining this. Cause: The primary underlying cause appears to be a failure to consistently follow established procurement procedures. Both procurements were appropriately determined to be single-source bids by management based on various factors. However, the Organization did not fully adhere to their procurement policy because justification for that determination was not maintained. Effect: Failure to adhere to the Organization’s procurement policies, which are designed in accordance with the Uniform Guidance, could result in the Organization not receiving competitive bids or proposals from multiple vendors, potentially leading to overpayment for contracts or services. Questioned costs: Not applicable. Context: The Organization did not provide documentation for single source justification for two of the samples selected for procurement testing. Recommendation: We recommend the Organization should implement a formal review and approval process for single-source justifications to ensure they are consistently completed, approved by appropriate management, and retained in procurement files. Maintaining complete and accurate documentation will support compliance with federal regulations, facilitate audit reviews, and reduce the risk of overpayment or challenges to procurement decisions. Management’s Response: See Corrective Action Plan.
Finding 2024-002 – Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Federal Program: Rural Health Care Services Outreach, Rural Health Network Development, and Small Health Care Provider Quality Improvement Program AL Number: 93.912 Pass-through: Not applicable Award Number: GA1RH33512 & G26RH49901 Award Year: 2020/2021 & 2023/2024 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.318(a) – Documented procurement procedures, “The recipient or subrecipient must maintain and use documented procedures for procurement transactions under a Federal award or subaward, including for acquisition of property or services.” Condition: The Organization did not follow their procurement policy for single-source justification procurement transactions. Two sample items selected for testing within the small purchase threshold were appropriately determined to be single-source items. However, in both instances, no documentation was maintained as to the reasoning for determining this. Cause: The primary underlying cause appears to be a failure to consistently follow established procurement procedures. Both procurements were appropriately determined to be single-source bids by management based on various factors. However, the Organization did not fully adhere to their procurement policy because justification for that determination was not maintained. Effect: Failure to adhere to the Organization’s procurement policies, which are designed in accordance with the Uniform Guidance, could result in the Organization not receiving competitive bids or proposals from multiple vendors, potentially leading to overpayment for contracts or services. Questioned costs: Not applicable. Context: The Organization did not provide documentation for single source justification for two of the samples selected for procurement testing. Recommendation: We recommend the Organization should implement a formal review and approval process for single-source justifications to ensure they are consistently completed, approved by appropriate management, and retained in procurement files. Maintaining complete and accurate documentation will support compliance with federal regulations, facilitate audit reviews, and reduce the risk of overpayment or challenges to procurement decisions. Management’s Response: See Corrective Action Plan.
2024-003 Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment Prior Year Finding Number: N/A Year of Finding Origination: 2024 Type of Finding: Internal Control Over Compliance and Compliance Severity of Deficiency: Material Weakness and Modified Opinion Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Agriculture Program: 10.561 State Administrative Matching Grants for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Award Number and Year: 242MN101S2514; 2024 Pass-Through Agency: Minnesota Department of Human Services Criteria: Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations § 200.303 states that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the auditee is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award. Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations § 200.318(i) states that the Health and Human Services 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. Additionally, the Health and Human Services must follow further federal guidance over full and open competition as provided in Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations § 200.319, and perform a cost or price analysis as provided in Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations § 200.324. Federal requirements prohibit non-federal entities from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred. Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations § 180.300 describes a required verification process. Prior to entering into the transaction, one of the following must be performed: (1) checking SAM.gov exclusions, (2) collecting a certification, or (3) adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction. Condition: The following exceptions were noted in the procurements testing: • All five small purchases tested did not have documentation of price or rate quotations obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources detailing the history of procurement or documentation of full and open competition. • For the five micro-purchase procurements tested, Southwest Health and Human Services did not document how purchases are distributed among qualified suppliers, as practical. • For one of the four covered transactions tested, the verification for suspended or debarred vendors was not performed before entering into the procurement. • For the one transaction over the simplified acquisition threshold tested, no documentation was maintained detailing the history of the procurement, demonstrating full and open competition, or that a cost or price analysis was performed. Questioned Costs: None. Context: The threshold used for the procurement testing was based on the Health and Human Services’ policy for simplified acquisition threshold (over $150,000), small purchases ($3,000 to $150,000), and micro-purchases ($3,000 or less). The suspension and debarment covered transaction threshold is $25,000. The population consisted of one procurement over the simplified acquisition threshold, 37 small purchases, 38 micro-purchases, and 18 covered transactions. The sample was one over the simplified acquisition threshold, five small purchases, five micro-purchases, and four covered transactions. The sample size was based on guidance from Chapter 11 of the AICPA Audit Guide, Government Auditing and Single Audits. Effect: It cannot be determined that the contracting process was open and fair because the Health and Human Services did not document the rationale for the contractor selection. It also cannot be determined that an entity was not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from conducting business with the Health and Human Services. Cause: Southwest Health and Human Services does not have processes in place to ensure federal requirements for procurement are followed. Recommendation: We recommend the Health and Human Services maintain documentation on the history of a procurement, provide for full and open competition, and perform a cost or price analysis to support compliance with Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations §§ 200.318, 200.319, and 200.324. We further recommend the Health and Human Services maintain documentation to demonstrate that vendors were not debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from conducting business with the Health and Human Services; this documentation should be completed prior to entering into a covered transaction. View of Responsible Official: Concur
Assistance Listing Number: 93.193 Name of Federal Program: COVID-19 Urban Indian Health Services Name of Federal Agency: Department of Health and Human Services Award Period: January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2024 Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR section 200.318(i) requires a non-federal entity to maintain sufficient records to detail the history of procurement including, but not limited to, the: rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Condition: The organization did not maintain adequate records to fully detail the history of procurement transactions funded with federal awards. Specifically, documentation was missing or incomplete regarding the rationale for the method of procurement, basis for contractor selection or rejection, price or cost analysis, and contract terms. Cause: The organization did not establish or enforce adequate recordkeeping procedures for procurement transactions. Supporting documentation for procurement files was not retained. Procurement policies and procedures have not been designed and implemented that adhere to Uniform Guidance requirements. Effect or Potential Effect: Without sufficient records, the organization cannot demonstrate compliance with Uniform Guidance procurement requirements. This increases the risk of unallowable or unreasonable costs being charged to federal awards and may result in questioned costs or funding agency disallowances. Questioned Costs: $194,797 Context: All vendors meeting the procurement policy threshold were tested. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: Management should implement procedures to ensure that complete procurement documentation is maintained in accordance with 2 CFR §200.318(i). This should include standardized procurement checklists, training for staff involved in purchasing, and periodic internal reviews to confirm that procurement files contain all required documentation. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding and will implement procurement procedures.
Assistance Listing Number: 93.193 Name of Federal Program: COVID-19 Urban Indian Health Services Name of Federal Agency: Department of Health and Human Services Award Period: January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2024 Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR section 200.318(i) requires a non-federal entity to maintain sufficient records to detail the history of procurement including, but not limited to, the: rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Condition: The organization did not maintain adequate records to fully detail the history of procurement transactions funded with federal awards. Specifically, documentation was missing or incomplete regarding the rationale for the method of procurement, basis for contractor selection or rejection, price or cost analysis, and contract terms. Cause: The organization did not establish or enforce adequate recordkeeping procedures for procurement transactions. Supporting documentation for procurement files was not retained. Procurement policies and procedures have not been designed and implemented that adhere to Uniform Guidance requirements. Effect or Potential Effect: Without sufficient records, the organization cannot demonstrate compliance with Uniform Guidance procurement requirements. This increases the risk of unallowable or unreasonable costs being charged to federal awards and may result in questioned costs or funding agency disallowances. Questioned Costs: $194,797 Context: All vendors meeting the procurement policy threshold were tested. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: Management should implement procedures to ensure that complete procurement documentation is maintained in accordance with 2 CFR §200.318(i). This should include standardized procurement checklists, training for staff involved in purchasing, and periodic internal reviews to confirm that procurement files contain all required documentation. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding and will implement procurement procedures.
The District did not have adequate internal controls in place to ensure compliance with federal procurement requirements. Assistance Listing Number and Title: 21.027 – COVID-19 State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Federal Grantor Name: Department of Treasury Federal Award/Contract Number: N/A Pass-through Entity Name: Yakima County Pass-through Award/Contract Number: 075-2024 Known Questioned Cost Amount: $0 Prior Year Audit Finding: N/A Background The purpose of the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) is to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic’s negative effects on public health and the economy, provide government services to the extent COVID-19 caused a reduction in revenues collected, make necessary investments in water, sewer or broadband infrastructure, provide emergency relief from natural disasters or their negative economic impacts, fund projects eligible under certain programs administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation through three pathways and fund projects eligible under the programs established in Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974. During fiscal year 2024, the District spent $800,000 in program funds for its Collection System Improvement Project – Phase 2 which replaced high-priority aging sewer mains at risk for failure and rerouted sewers away from other vulnerable infrastructure. Federal regulations require recipients to establish, document and maintain effective internal controls that ensure compliance with program requirements. These controls include understanding program requirements and monitoring the effectiveness of established controls. Federal regulations require recipients to follow their own documented procurement procedures, which must conform to the Uniform Guidance procurement standards found in 2 CFR 200.318-327. The procedures must reflect the most restrictive of federal, state or local procurement thresholds and methods when using federal funds. Description of Condition Our audit found the District did not have adequate internal controls for ensuring compliance with federal procurement requirements. Specifically, the District did not have written procurement procedures to ensure compliance with federal requirements. We consider this deficiency in internal controls to be a significant deficiency. Cause of Condition The District has not received federal funding in prior years, and this is its first single audit. Since the District did not regularly manage federal funds, staff were unaware of the requirement to have written procedures over procurement until it received the federal award in February 2024. The District adopted a written policy in May 2024, after the procurement action in 2023. Effect of Condition Without written policies and procedures, the District is at a higher risk of not complying with the requirement to follow the most restrictive of federal, state or local procurement methods and standards of conduct requirements when using federal funds to procure contractors. Although the District did not have written policies over procurement in place, it expected the project to be partially federally funded; therefore, it hired an engineering firm familiar with federal procurement requirements and properly procured the contractor for the project we reviewed. Recommendation We recommend the District strengthen its internal controls to ensure required policies and procedures are in place when procuring with federal funds, as required by Uniform Guidance. District’s Response This was the Districts first experience with federal funding. We have practiced appropriate internal controls but neglected to have a written formal policy. Upon realizing that we needed a formal written policy we drafted the steps we utilized to procure our contractor and supplies. That draft was then brought through our commissioner’s approval process. It was accepted formally by our Board of Commissioners on May 2024. Auditor’s Remarks We thank the District for its cooperation and assistande during the audit and acknowledge its commitment to improving the condition described. We will review status of this issue during our next audit. Applicable Laws and Regulations Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance), section 516, Audit findings, establishes reporting requirements for audit findings. Title 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Guidance, section 303, Internal controls, describes the requirements for auditees to maintain internal controls over federal programs and comply with federal program requirements. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants defines significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in its Codification of Statements on Auditing Standards, section 935, Compliance Audits, paragraph 11. Title 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Guidance, section 318, General procurement standards, establishes requirements for written procedures. Title 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Guidance, section 320, Methods of procurement to be followed, establishes requirements for procuring goods and services, including noncompetitive procurement.
Federal Agency: Department of Housing and Urban Development Federal Program Name: Continuum of Care Assistance Listing Number: 14.267 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: SC-110351 - 2024 SC-111132 - 2024 SC-110353 - 2024 SC-111134 - 2024 SC-110355 - 2024 SC-110349 - 2024 SC-111130 - 2024 Pass-Through Agency: Pierce County Pass-Through Number(s): LP9XHDGASCJ3 Award Period: SC-110351: 7/1/23-6/30/24 SC-111132: 7/1/24-6/30/25 SC-110353: 12/1/23-11/30/24 SC-111134: 12/1/24-11/30/25 SC-110355: 6/1/23-8/31/24 SC-110349: 5/1/23-4/30/24 SC-111130: 5/1/24-4/30/25 Type of finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), recipients of federal funds must "establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award." Non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred (2 CFR sections 200.212 and 200.318(h); 2 CFR section 1800.30; 48 CFR section 52.209-6). Additionally, an entity is required to have policies and procedures in place for verifying the above requirements. Condition: During our suspension and debarment testing, CLA noted no suspension and debarment policy in place and no suspension and debarment check was performed over a covered transaction. Questioned costs: $7,442 of known questioned costs. Context: There was only one covered transaction subject to suspension and debarment check that had a contract amount exceeding $25,000 but only $7,442 was paid with federal program. However, no suspension and debarment check was performed. CLA elected to perform a SAM.gov check and noted that vendor (Locke System) is not debarred as of the date of the audit procedure. Cause: Share & Care House and Subsidiary lacks sufficient understanding of the compliance requirements surrounding covered transactions and suspension and debarment check requirements. Effect: Contracts could be entered into with suspended or debarred vendors leading to noncompliance. Improper understanding caused Share & Care House and Subsidiary to be noncompliant with program requirements over suspension and debarment. Repeat finding: No. Recommendation: CLA recommends Share & Care House and Subsidiary to develop and implement a suspension and debarment policy that meets the requirements outlined in Uniform Guidance. CLA also recommends increased training for those individuals involved in procurement and contract approval process to ensure suspension and debarment checks are performed on all covered transactions. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has provided its corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: Department of Housing and Urban Development Federal Program Name: Continuum of Care Assistance Listing Number: 14.267 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: SC-110351 - 2024 SC-111132 - 2024 SC-110353 - 2024 SC-111134 - 2024 SC-110355 - 2024 SC-110349 - 2024 SC-111130 - 2024 Pass-Through Agency: Pierce County Pass-Through Number(s): LP9XHDGASCJ3 Award Period: SC-110351: 7/1/23-6/30/24 SC-111132: 7/1/24-6/30/25 SC-110353: 12/1/23-11/30/24 SC-111134: 12/1/24-11/30/25 SC-110355: 6/1/23-8/31/24 SC-110349: 5/1/23-4/30/24 SC-111130: 5/1/24-4/30/25 Type of finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), recipients of federal funds must "establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award." Non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred (2 CFR sections 200.212 and 200.318(h); 2 CFR section 1800.30; 48 CFR section 52.209-6). Additionally, an entity is required to have policies and procedures in place for verifying the above requirements. Condition: During our suspension and debarment testing, CLA noted no suspension and debarment policy in place and no suspension and debarment check was performed over a covered transaction. Questioned costs: $7,442 of known questioned costs. Context: There was only one covered transaction subject to suspension and debarment check that had a contract amount exceeding $25,000 but only $7,442 was paid with federal program. However, no suspension and debarment check was performed. CLA elected to perform a SAM.gov check and noted that vendor (Locke System) is not debarred as of the date of the audit procedure. Cause: Share & Care House and Subsidiary lacks sufficient understanding of the compliance requirements surrounding covered transactions and suspension and debarment check requirements. Effect: Contracts could be entered into with suspended or debarred vendors leading to noncompliance. Improper understanding caused Share & Care House and Subsidiary to be noncompliant with program requirements over suspension and debarment. Repeat finding: No. Recommendation: CLA recommends Share & Care House and Subsidiary to develop and implement a suspension and debarment policy that meets the requirements outlined in Uniform Guidance. CLA also recommends increased training for those individuals involved in procurement and contract approval process to ensure suspension and debarment checks are performed on all covered transactions. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has provided its corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: Department of Housing and Urban Development Federal Program Name: Continuum of Care Assistance Listing Number: 14.267 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: SC-110351 - 2024 SC-111132 - 2024 SC-110353 - 2024 SC-111134 - 2024 SC-110355 - 2024 SC-110349 - 2024 SC-111130 - 2024 Pass-Through Agency: Pierce County Pass-Through Number(s): LP9XHDGASCJ3 Award Period: SC-110351: 7/1/23-6/30/24 SC-111132: 7/1/24-6/30/25 SC-110353: 12/1/23-11/30/24 SC-111134: 12/1/24-11/30/25 SC-110355: 6/1/23-8/31/24 SC-110349: 5/1/23-4/30/24 SC-111130: 5/1/24-4/30/25 Type of finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), recipients of federal funds must "establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award." Non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred (2 CFR sections 200.212 and 200.318(h); 2 CFR section 1800.30; 48 CFR section 52.209-6). Additionally, an entity is required to have policies and procedures in place for verifying the above requirements. Condition: During our suspension and debarment testing, CLA noted no suspension and debarment policy in place and no suspension and debarment check was performed over a covered transaction. Questioned costs: $7,442 of known questioned costs. Context: There was only one covered transaction subject to suspension and debarment check that had a contract amount exceeding $25,000 but only $7,442 was paid with federal program. However, no suspension and debarment check was performed. CLA elected to perform a SAM.gov check and noted that vendor (Locke System) is not debarred as of the date of the audit procedure. Cause: Share & Care House and Subsidiary lacks sufficient understanding of the compliance requirements surrounding covered transactions and suspension and debarment check requirements. Effect: Contracts could be entered into with suspended or debarred vendors leading to noncompliance. Improper understanding caused Share & Care House and Subsidiary to be noncompliant with program requirements over suspension and debarment. Repeat finding: No. Recommendation: CLA recommends Share & Care House and Subsidiary to develop and implement a suspension and debarment policy that meets the requirements outlined in Uniform Guidance. CLA also recommends increased training for those individuals involved in procurement and contract approval process to ensure suspension and debarment checks are performed on all covered transactions. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has provided its corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: Department of Housing and Urban Development Federal Program Name: Continuum of Care Assistance Listing Number: 14.267 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: SC-110351 - 2024 SC-111132 - 2024 SC-110353 - 2024 SC-111134 - 2024 SC-110355 - 2024 SC-110349 - 2024 SC-111130 - 2024 Pass-Through Agency: Pierce County Pass-Through Number(s): LP9XHDGASCJ3 Award Period: SC-110351: 7/1/23-6/30/24 SC-111132: 7/1/24-6/30/25 SC-110353: 12/1/23-11/30/24 SC-111134: 12/1/24-11/30/25 SC-110355: 6/1/23-8/31/24 SC-110349: 5/1/23-4/30/24 SC-111130: 5/1/24-4/30/25 Type of finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), recipients of federal funds must "establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award." Non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred (2 CFR sections 200.212 and 200.318(h); 2 CFR section 1800.30; 48 CFR section 52.209-6). Additionally, an entity is required to have policies and procedures in place for verifying the above requirements. Condition: During our suspension and debarment testing, CLA noted no suspension and debarment policy in place and no suspension and debarment check was performed over a covered transaction. Questioned costs: $7,442 of known questioned costs. Context: There was only one covered transaction subject to suspension and debarment check that had a contract amount exceeding $25,000 but only $7,442 was paid with federal program. However, no suspension and debarment check was performed. CLA elected to perform a SAM.gov check and noted that vendor (Locke System) is not debarred as of the date of the audit procedure. Cause: Share & Care House and Subsidiary lacks sufficient understanding of the compliance requirements surrounding covered transactions and suspension and debarment check requirements. Effect: Contracts could be entered into with suspended or debarred vendors leading to noncompliance. Improper understanding caused Share & Care House and Subsidiary to be noncompliant with program requirements over suspension and debarment. Repeat finding: No. Recommendation: CLA recommends Share & Care House and Subsidiary to develop and implement a suspension and debarment policy that meets the requirements outlined in Uniform Guidance. CLA also recommends increased training for those individuals involved in procurement and contract approval process to ensure suspension and debarment checks are performed on all covered transactions. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has provided its corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: Department of Housing and Urban Development Federal Program Name: Continuum of Care Assistance Listing Number: 14.267 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: SC-110351 - 2024 SC-111132 - 2024 SC-110353 - 2024 SC-111134 - 2024 SC-110355 - 2024 SC-110349 - 2024 SC-111130 - 2024 Pass-Through Agency: Pierce County Pass-Through Number(s): LP9XHDGASCJ3 Award Period: SC-110351: 7/1/23-6/30/24 SC-111132: 7/1/24-6/30/25 SC-110353: 12/1/23-11/30/24 SC-111134: 12/1/24-11/30/25 SC-110355: 6/1/23-8/31/24 SC-110349: 5/1/23-4/30/24 SC-111130: 5/1/24-4/30/25 Type of finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), recipients of federal funds must "establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award." Non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred (2 CFR sections 200.212 and 200.318(h); 2 CFR section 1800.30; 48 CFR section 52.209-6). Additionally, an entity is required to have policies and procedures in place for verifying the above requirements. Condition: During our suspension and debarment testing, CLA noted no suspension and debarment policy in place and no suspension and debarment check was performed over a covered transaction. Questioned costs: $7,442 of known questioned costs. Context: There was only one covered transaction subject to suspension and debarment check that had a contract amount exceeding $25,000 but only $7,442 was paid with federal program. However, no suspension and debarment check was performed. CLA elected to perform a SAM.gov check and noted that vendor (Locke System) is not debarred as of the date of the audit procedure. Cause: Share & Care House and Subsidiary lacks sufficient understanding of the compliance requirements surrounding covered transactions and suspension and debarment check requirements. Effect: Contracts could be entered into with suspended or debarred vendors leading to noncompliance. Improper understanding caused Share & Care House and Subsidiary to be noncompliant with program requirements over suspension and debarment. Repeat finding: No. Recommendation: CLA recommends Share & Care House and Subsidiary to develop and implement a suspension and debarment policy that meets the requirements outlined in Uniform Guidance. CLA also recommends increased training for those individuals involved in procurement and contract approval process to ensure suspension and debarment checks are performed on all covered transactions. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has provided its corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: Department of Housing and Urban Development Federal Program Name: Continuum of Care Assistance Listing Number: 14.267 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: SC-110351 - 2024 SC-111132 - 2024 SC-110353 - 2024 SC-111134 - 2024 SC-110355 - 2024 SC-110349 - 2024 SC-111130 - 2024 Pass-Through Agency: Pierce County Pass-Through Number(s): LP9XHDGASCJ3 Award Period: SC-110351: 7/1/23-6/30/24 SC-111132: 7/1/24-6/30/25 SC-110353: 12/1/23-11/30/24 SC-111134: 12/1/24-11/30/25 SC-110355: 6/1/23-8/31/24 SC-110349: 5/1/23-4/30/24 SC-111130: 5/1/24-4/30/25 Type of finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), recipients of federal funds must "establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award." Non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred (2 CFR sections 200.212 and 200.318(h); 2 CFR section 1800.30; 48 CFR section 52.209-6). Additionally, an entity is required to have policies and procedures in place for verifying the above requirements. Condition: During our suspension and debarment testing, CLA noted no suspension and debarment policy in place and no suspension and debarment check was performed over a covered transaction. Questioned costs: $7,442 of known questioned costs. Context: There was only one covered transaction subject to suspension and debarment check that had a contract amount exceeding $25,000 but only $7,442 was paid with federal program. However, no suspension and debarment check was performed. CLA elected to perform a SAM.gov check and noted that vendor (Locke System) is not debarred as of the date of the audit procedure. Cause: Share & Care House and Subsidiary lacks sufficient understanding of the compliance requirements surrounding covered transactions and suspension and debarment check requirements. Effect: Contracts could be entered into with suspended or debarred vendors leading to noncompliance. Improper understanding caused Share & Care House and Subsidiary to be noncompliant with program requirements over suspension and debarment. Repeat finding: No. Recommendation: CLA recommends Share & Care House and Subsidiary to develop and implement a suspension and debarment policy that meets the requirements outlined in Uniform Guidance. CLA also recommends increased training for those individuals involved in procurement and contract approval process to ensure suspension and debarment checks are performed on all covered transactions. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has provided its corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: Department of Housing and Urban Development Federal Program Name: Continuum of Care Assistance Listing Number: 14.267 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: SC-110351 - 2024 SC-111132 - 2024 SC-110353 - 2024 SC-111134 - 2024 SC-110355 - 2024 SC-110349 - 2024 SC-111130 - 2024 Pass-Through Agency: Pierce County Pass-Through Number(s): LP9XHDGASCJ3 Award Period: SC-110351: 7/1/23-6/30/24 SC-111132: 7/1/24-6/30/25 SC-110353: 12/1/23-11/30/24 SC-111134: 12/1/24-11/30/25 SC-110355: 6/1/23-8/31/24 SC-110349: 5/1/23-4/30/24 SC-111130: 5/1/24-4/30/25 Type of finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), recipients of federal funds must "establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award." Non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred (2 CFR sections 200.212 and 200.318(h); 2 CFR section 1800.30; 48 CFR section 52.209-6). Additionally, an entity is required to have policies and procedures in place for verifying the above requirements. Condition: During our suspension and debarment testing, CLA noted no suspension and debarment policy in place and no suspension and debarment check was performed over a covered transaction. Questioned costs: $7,442 of known questioned costs. Context: There was only one covered transaction subject to suspension and debarment check that had a contract amount exceeding $25,000 but only $7,442 was paid with federal program. However, no suspension and debarment check was performed. CLA elected to perform a SAM.gov check and noted that vendor (Locke System) is not debarred as of the date of the audit procedure. Cause: Share & Care House and Subsidiary lacks sufficient understanding of the compliance requirements surrounding covered transactions and suspension and debarment check requirements. Effect: Contracts could be entered into with suspended or debarred vendors leading to noncompliance. Improper understanding caused Share & Care House and Subsidiary to be noncompliant with program requirements over suspension and debarment. Repeat finding: No. Recommendation: CLA recommends Share & Care House and Subsidiary to develop and implement a suspension and debarment policy that meets the requirements outlined in Uniform Guidance. CLA also recommends increased training for those individuals involved in procurement and contract approval process to ensure suspension and debarment checks are performed on all covered transactions. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has provided its corrective action plan.