CONDITION: During my review of The School District of the City of Jeannette’s compliance with the requirements of the Public School Code and the Uniform Guidance for procurement of goods and services, the District was unable to provide documentation or other evidence that either 1) three price or rate quotations for the purchase of goods between $10,000 and $22,500, and services between $10,000 and $250,000 were obtained, or 2) the vendor met the requirements of a ‘sole source provider’ with documentation to support such designation, for the following vendors – Grade Point Resources ($74,503.17) and VLN Partners, LLP ($52,750.00). CRITERIA: In accordance with 24 PA Statute 8.807.1, the District must obtain/document at least three (3) written or well documented price or rate quotations from a reasonable number of qualified sources for purchases of goods between $10,000 and $$22,500 (threshold established annually). In addition, Section 2 CFR 200.300(a)(2)(i) of the Uniform Guidance requires price or rate quotations to be received from an adequate number of qualified sources for purchases above the micro purchase threshold of $10,000 and the simplified acquisition threshold of $250,000. Furthermore, Section 2 CFR 200.320(c’) of the Uniform Guidance details five (5) circumstances in which noncompetitive procurement can be used. EFFECT: The District did not comply with 1) the District’s Procurement Policy for Federal Programs (#626), 2) the 24 PA Statute 8.807.1, 3) Section 2 CFR 200.300(a)(2)(i) of the Uniform Guidance regarding obtaining three price or rate quotations for the purchase of goods between $10,000 and $22,500, and services between $10,000 and $250,000, or 4) Section 2 CFR 200.318(i) and Section 2CFR 200.320(c’) of the Uniform Guidance regarding the proper documentation required for noncompetitive procurement using federal funding. QUESTIONED COST: $127,253 CAUSE: District officials responsible for federal procurement did not adhere to District, state and federal policies and regulations regarding the expenditure of federal funds. RECOMMENDATION: I recommend that for all future purchases of goods and/or services utilizing federal funds, that the District adhere to the requirements of 1) the District’s Procurement Policy for Federal Programs (#626.5), 2) the 24 PA Statute 8.807.1, 3) Section 2 CFR 200.300(a)(2)(i) of the Uniform Guidance regarding obtaining three price or rate quotations for the purchase of goods between $10,000 and $22,500, and services between $10,000 and $250,000, and as applicable, 4) Section 2 CFR 200.318(i) and Section 2CFR 200.320(c’) of the Uniform Guidance regarding the proper documentation required for noncompetitive procurement using federal funding. VIEWS OF RESPONSIBLE OFFICIALS: The School District concurs with the above noted finding and addresses this issue in the ‘Corrective Action Plan’ included within this report.
Criteria or Specific Requirement (Written Procurement Policies and Procedures): Uniform Guidance requires nonfederal entities to have written policies and procedures regarding procurement under federal awards. Regarding this requirements, 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.” Condition: We requested the District’s procurement policies and procedures. The District provided “POLICY 3170.” This policy includes general provisions in only a few areas: (1) purchases under or equal to $1000; (2) purchases from $1000 to $20,000; (3) purchases over $20,000; (4) provision for local preference; and (5) provision for vehicle purchases. POLICY 3170 does not appear to deal with procurement for federal grants or Uniform Guidance 2 CFR §§ 200.317 through 200.327. The District provided evidence of its intent to adopt new procurement policies and procedures. This is certainly a positive occurrence, but revision to the policies should have, instead, occurred prior to the beginning of the audit year 2022-2023. Cause: It appears that the primary cause of this condition is that the District does not have experience with procurement procedures under Uniform Guidance. Indeed, the District has not been required to have a Single Audit since the fiscal year ending June 30, 2013. Effect: Procurement policies and procedures are the base of internal control for procurement. Without adoption of procurement policies and procedures, non-compliance with procurement requirements is significantly more likely. Questioned costs: No costs are questioned. Perspective: The situation is somewhat offset by the fact that the District hired outside construction managers on both projects who were both experienced in federal grants and sewer projects. Further, despite the lack of appropriate Uniform Guidance procurement policies and procedures, the District did comply with most provisions of 2 CFR §§ 200.317 through 200.327. Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We would recommend that the District move forward with drafting procurement, debarment, and further conflict of interest policies and procedures for federal awards. We recommend that the District review 2 CFR §§ 200.317 through 200.327 and make sure that each requirement is dealt with in the District’s new policies and procedures. It is noted that for purchases up to the Micro-purchase amount of $10,000, that competitive price or even rate quotes are not necessary as long as the non-Federal entity considers the price to be reasonable based on research, experience, purchase history or other information and documents it files accordingly. 2 CFR § 200.320(a)(1). Views of responsible officials: Management’s response is reported in “Management’s Response and Corrective Action Plan” included in a separate section at the end of this report.
Criteria or Specific Requirement (Written Procurement Policies and Procedures): Uniform Guidance requires nonfederal entities to have written policies and procedures regarding procurement under federal awards. Regarding this requirements, 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.” Condition: We requested the District’s procurement policies and procedures. The District provided “POLICY 3170.” This policy includes general provisions in only a few areas: (1) purchases under or equal to $1000; (2) purchases from $1000 to $20,000; (3) purchases over $20,000; (4) provision for local preference; and (5) provision for vehicle purchases. POLICY 3170 does not appear to deal with procurement for federal grants or Uniform Guidance 2 CFR §§ 200.317 through 200.327. The District provided evidence of its intent to adopt new procurement policies and procedures. This is certainly a positive occurrence, but revision to the policies should have, instead, occurred prior to the beginning of the audit year 2022-2023. Cause: It appears that the primary cause of this condition is that the District does not have experience with procurement procedures under Uniform Guidance. Indeed, the District has not been required to have a Single Audit since the fiscal year ending June 30, 2013. Effect: Procurement policies and procedures are the base of internal control for procurement. Without adoption of procurement policies and procedures, non-compliance with procurement requirements is significantly more likely. Questioned costs: No costs are questioned. Perspective: The situation is somewhat offset by the fact that the District hired outside construction managers on both projects who were both experienced in federal grants and sewer projects. Further, despite the lack of appropriate Uniform Guidance procurement policies and procedures, the District did comply with most provisions of 2 CFR §§ 200.317 through 200.327. Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We would recommend that the District move forward with drafting procurement, debarment, and further conflict of interest policies and procedures for federal awards. We recommend that the District review 2 CFR §§ 200.317 through 200.327 and make sure that each requirement is dealt with in the District’s new policies and procedures. It is noted that for purchases up to the Micro-purchase amount of $10,000, that competitive price or even rate quotes are not necessary as long as the non-Federal entity considers the price to be reasonable based on research, experience, purchase history or other information and documents it files accordingly. 2 CFR § 200.320(a)(1). Views of responsible officials: Management’s response is reported in “Management’s Response and Corrective Action Plan” included in a separate section at the end of this report.
Criteria or Specific Requirement (Documentation of Procurement File): Uniform Guidance under 2 CFR 200.318(i), provides that a “nonfederal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement.” These records shall include: “rationale for the method of procurement, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price.” Further, Uniform Guidance contains procurement requirements for architectural and engineering services under 200.320(b)(2)(iv). Such policies and procedures for architectural and engineering services provide that competitive proposals for professional services whereby offeror's qualifications are evaluated and the most qualified offeror is selected, subject to negotiation of fair and reasonable compensation.” Condition: Capitalization Grants for Clean Water State Revolving Funds, CFDA 66.458: The engineer/construction manager on this project was selected for testing from a population of two vendors over the individually significant threshold of $47,219. The District explains that the District and the engineer/construction manager have a relationship which goes back 60 years. This engineering firm acts as the outside engineer for the District. The District further explains that this engineering firm has successfully completed numerous similar, smaller scale projects for the District and that this engineer is very familiar with the District’s existing system. The District further explains that these criteria were important considerations in selection this engineering firm for engineering services and construction management. We inquired about documentation of the rationale for the method of procurement, basis of contract price and negotiation of fair and reasonable compensation. The District’s file did not contain documentation of such. Water and Waste Disposal Systems for Rural Communities, CFDA 10.760: We selected a sample of three from a population of five vendors over the individually significant threshold of $29,516 for this grant. We noted one exception. The District explained the rationale for the vendor selection stating that unique construction material had to match other such construction material previously installed. However, the District did not have documentation of the rational for selection and negotiation of the price in the procurement file. Cause: It appears that the primary cause of this condition is that the District does not have experience with procurement procedures under Uniform Guidance. Indeed, the District has not been required to have a Single Audit since the fiscal year ending June 30, 2013. Effect: Without a document which shows a rational for selection of, and arrival at the price, there is no way to monitor this aspect of the procurement process. Questioned costs: No costs are questioned. Perspective: We noted extensive documentation of the general contractor procurement with bidding procedures, advertising for bids, etc. In all tests, the District’s explanations as to why a particular vendor was selected appeared reasonable. Nonetheless, the requirement is that the District document the “rationale for the method of procurement, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price.” Perspective Specific to CFDA 10.760. A sample of three was selected from a population of five vendors over the micro-purchase threshold of $10,000. There was one exception. Under attribute sampling, this is an exception rate of 33%. However, we note that the one exception represented only 1.37% of the dollar value of sample selected. Extrapolating the 1.37% to the population, the expected dollar error for debarment checks is $30,353. Perspective Specific to CFDA 66.458: Initially, we noted that the population was two vendors over the micro-purchase threshold of $10,000. We selected a sample of one with no exceptions. However, it came to our attention that grantor had questioned procurement procedures for the engineer. We determined to test this procurement and noted an exception. Under attribute sampling, this is an exception rate of 50%. However, we note that the one exception represented 19.38% of the dollar value of the total population. As 100% of the population of two was tested, no extrapolation is suggested. Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We would recommend that the District adopt policies and procedures under 2 CFR 200.318(i) and 200.320(b)(2)(iv) requiring documentation of procurement “rationale for the method of procurement, . . . contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price and also negotiation of fair and reasonable compensation when architectural or engineering services are procured. Further, we recommend that a monitoring procedure be implemented to review for compliance with these procedures. Views of responsible officials: Management’s response is reported in “Management’s Response and Corrective Action Plan” included in a separate section at the end of this report.
Criteria or Specific Requirement (Documentation of Procurement File): Uniform Guidance under 2 CFR 200.318(i), provides that a “nonfederal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement.” These records shall include: “rationale for the method of procurement, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price.” Further, Uniform Guidance contains procurement requirements for architectural and engineering services under 200.320(b)(2)(iv). Such policies and procedures for architectural and engineering services provide that competitive proposals for professional services whereby offeror's qualifications are evaluated and the most qualified offeror is selected, subject to negotiation of fair and reasonable compensation.” Condition: Capitalization Grants for Clean Water State Revolving Funds, CFDA 66.458: The engineer/construction manager on this project was selected for testing from a population of two vendors over the individually significant threshold of $47,219. The District explains that the District and the engineer/construction manager have a relationship which goes back 60 years. This engineering firm acts as the outside engineer for the District. The District further explains that this engineering firm has successfully completed numerous similar, smaller scale projects for the District and that this engineer is very familiar with the District’s existing system. The District further explains that these criteria were important considerations in selection this engineering firm for engineering services and construction management. We inquired about documentation of the rationale for the method of procurement, basis of contract price and negotiation of fair and reasonable compensation. The District’s file did not contain documentation of such. Water and Waste Disposal Systems for Rural Communities, CFDA 10.760: We selected a sample of three from a population of five vendors over the individually significant threshold of $29,516 for this grant. We noted one exception. The District explained the rationale for the vendor selection stating that unique construction material had to match other such construction material previously installed. However, the District did not have documentation of the rational for selection and negotiation of the price in the procurement file. Cause: It appears that the primary cause of this condition is that the District does not have experience with procurement procedures under Uniform Guidance. Indeed, the District has not been required to have a Single Audit since the fiscal year ending June 30, 2013. Effect: Without a document which shows a rational for selection of, and arrival at the price, there is no way to monitor this aspect of the procurement process. Questioned costs: No costs are questioned. Perspective: We noted extensive documentation of the general contractor procurement with bidding procedures, advertising for bids, etc. In all tests, the District’s explanations as to why a particular vendor was selected appeared reasonable. Nonetheless, the requirement is that the District document the “rationale for the method of procurement, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price.” Perspective Specific to CFDA 10.760. A sample of three was selected from a population of five vendors over the micro-purchase threshold of $10,000. There was one exception. Under attribute sampling, this is an exception rate of 33%. However, we note that the one exception represented only 1.37% of the dollar value of sample selected. Extrapolating the 1.37% to the population, the expected dollar error for debarment checks is $30,353. Perspective Specific to CFDA 66.458: Initially, we noted that the population was two vendors over the micro-purchase threshold of $10,000. We selected a sample of one with no exceptions. However, it came to our attention that grantor had questioned procurement procedures for the engineer. We determined to test this procurement and noted an exception. Under attribute sampling, this is an exception rate of 50%. However, we note that the one exception represented 19.38% of the dollar value of the total population. As 100% of the population of two was tested, no extrapolation is suggested. Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We would recommend that the District adopt policies and procedures under 2 CFR 200.318(i) and 200.320(b)(2)(iv) requiring documentation of procurement “rationale for the method of procurement, . . . contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price and also negotiation of fair and reasonable compensation when architectural or engineering services are procured. Further, we recommend that a monitoring procedure be implemented to review for compliance with these procedures. Views of responsible officials: Management’s response is reported in “Management’s Response and Corrective Action Plan” included in a separate section at the end of this report.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Justice Federal Program Title: Crime Victim Assistance Federal Assistance Listing Number: 16.575 Pass-Through Agency: Minnesota Office of Justice Programs Pass-Through Number(s): A-CVS-2022-AMS-157 Award Period: 10/01/2021 to 09/30/2023 Type of Finding: • Material Weakness in Internal Control over Major Federal Programs, Material Noncompliance, and Other Matters Criteria or Specific Requirement: Non-federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Condition: The Organization does not have a written procurement policy in accordance with Uniform Guidance. In addition, during our testing, we noted the Organization did not apply any procurement procedures for three small purchases as they did not perform appropriate procedures nor retain adequate documentation in accordance with Uniform Guidance. Questioned Costs: $46,557 Context: The Organization should develop a procurement policy that conforms with Uniform Guidance. Three out of the three procurement selections did not have procurement procedures followed. Cause: The Organization was unaware its policy was not in accordance with Uniform Guidance; thus, leading to the lack of procedures performed and documentation retained. Effect: Potential effect of noncompliance with Uniform Guidance when procuring goods and services for expenditures over federal awards. Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: The Organization should review 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326 requirements for procurement. The Organization should also provide training to the various individuals involved in the procurement process to ensure they understand the applicable requirements. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The Organization will review the procurement standards as well as provide the necessary training to understand applicable procurement requirements.
Title V Grant Procurement DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION ALN #: 84.031S Federal Award Identification #: P031S200171 Condition: The University does not have a purchasing or competitive bid policy that follows the federal regulations. The University did not follow its policy and federal procurement requirements when making purchasing and vendor decisions with Title V grant funds. Criteria: 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.327 Questioned Costs: $0 Context: While the expenditures tested as part of the audit met allowable cost and allowable activities requirements, the University did not follow its competitive bid policy nor were minimum federal procurement requirements followed properly. Cause: University personnel were unfamiliar with the federal procurement requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with procurement requirements that could impact future funding opportunities. Identification as repeat finding, if applicable: Not applicable Recommendation: We recommend the University update their policies that follow the federal procurement requirements and the University implement procedures and controls to help prevent deviations from the policies. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action: Management agrees with the finding. See corrective action plan.
Criteria or specific requirement: According to § 200.303 Internal controls of 2 CFR Part 200, the nonfederal entity must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the nonfederal entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award. According to § 200.318 General procurement standards of 2 CFR Part 200, the nonfederal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. According to § 200.320 Methods of procurement to be followed of 2 CFR Part 200, 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 nonfederal entity, formal procurement methods are required. According to § 180.300 of Subpart C - Responsibilities of Participants Regarding Transactions Doing Business With Other Persons of 2 CFR Part 180, 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; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. According to Section 3.4 Formal Solicitations of the County's Purchasing Policy, Purchases of goods and services with an estimated cost of $25,000 or more (including tax, installation, and freight), shall be made as the result of a Formal Solicitation process including but not limited to Invitations for Bids, Requests for Proposals, Requests for Qualifications, Requests for Information and any other formal solicitation method that can be completed within a timeframe that allows for the solicitation, evaluation and approval in accordance with this Section. Formal solicitations may be solicited through Purchasing’s web based system or as otherwise directed by the Purchasing Agent. According to Section 3.5 Exceptions to Competitive Solicitation of the County's Purchasing Policy, in certain circumstances competitive solicitations may not be the most cost-effective approach for procurement. The Board of Supervisors, County Executive, or Purchasing may waive requirements for competitive solicitations in accordance with the grounds permitted by law. Key exemption categories are identified in the Purchasing Policy. Exceptions are not intended to circumvent the competitive process and related County policies and does not eliminate the need to ensure purchases are competitively priced and the terms and conditions of the purchase are in the best interests of the County. A written determination of the basis for the exception to competitive solicitation and the reason for the selection of the particular source shall be included in Purchasing’s records. According to the County's suspension and debarment verification process, prior to entering into an applicable contract or subrecipient agreement, department will verify on SAM.gov if an entity is listed as suspended or debarred. Condition: The County did not follow federal procurement and suspension and debarment regulation nor its purchasing policy and suspension and debarment verification procedures. Questioned costs: None Context: During our testing, we noted the following matters related to procurement and suspension and debarment. Assistance Listing Number 21.027 • For one of eleven procurements, there is no written justification, documentary support, nor evidence of approval of the emergency procurement in the procurement file. Assistance Listing Number 93.323 • For one of two procurements, the County did not maintain evidence of the suspension and debarment check before entering into the covered transaction or evidence of the review and approval of the verification check. Cause: Management oversight. Effect: The auditor noted instances of noncompliance. Noncompliance results in procurement transactions for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award not conducted in a manner providing full and open competition and other general procurement standards, as applicable. Also, noncompliance results in procurement transactions with potentially suspended or debarred entities. Repeat Finding: This audit finding was reported in the prior year in finding 2022-004. Recommendation: We recommend the County design controls to ensure compliance with federal procurement and suspension and debarment regulation and its purchasing policy and suspension and debarment verification procedures. We recommend the County develop standard justification forms with approval of the noncompetitive procurement documented on the forms and the forms maintained in the procurement file. Also, we recommend the County update its purchasing policy to ensure clear, concise, and detailed suspension and debarment verification procedures. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement from responsible officials
Criteria or specific requirement: According to § 200.303 Internal controls of 2 CFR Part 200, the nonfederal entity must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the nonfederal entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award. According to § 200.318 General procurement standards of 2 CFR Part 200, the nonfederal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. According to § 200.320 Methods of procurement to be followed of 2 CFR Part 200, 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 nonfederal entity, formal procurement methods are required. According to § 180.300 of Subpart C - Responsibilities of Participants Regarding Transactions Doing Business With Other Persons of 2 CFR Part 180, 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; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. According to Section 3.4 Formal Solicitations of the County's Purchasing Policy, Purchases of goods and services with an estimated cost of $25,000 or more (including tax, installation, and freight), shall be made as the result of a Formal Solicitation process including but not limited to Invitations for Bids, Requests for Proposals, Requests for Qualifications, Requests for Information and any other formal solicitation method that can be completed within a timeframe that allows for the solicitation, evaluation and approval in accordance with this Section. Formal solicitations may be solicited through Purchasing’s web based system or as otherwise directed by the Purchasing Agent. According to Section 3.5 Exceptions to Competitive Solicitation of the County's Purchasing Policy, in certain circumstances competitive solicitations may not be the most cost-effective approach for procurement. The Board of Supervisors, County Executive, or Purchasing may waive requirements for competitive solicitations in accordance with the grounds permitted by law. Key exemption categories are identified in the Purchasing Policy. Exceptions are not intended to circumvent the competitive process and related County policies and does not eliminate the need to ensure purchases are competitively priced and the terms and conditions of the purchase are in the best interests of the County. A written determination of the basis for the exception to competitive solicitation and the reason for the selection of the particular source shall be included in Purchasing’s records. According to the County's suspension and debarment verification process, prior to entering into an applicable contract or subrecipient agreement, department will verify on SAM.gov if an entity is listed as suspended or debarred. Condition: The County did not follow federal procurement and suspension and debarment regulation nor its purchasing policy and suspension and debarment verification procedures. Questioned costs: None Context: During our testing, we noted the following matters related to procurement and suspension and debarment. Assistance Listing Number 21.027 • For one of eleven procurements, there is no written justification, documentary support, nor evidence of approval of the emergency procurement in the procurement file. Assistance Listing Number 93.323 • For one of two procurements, the County did not maintain evidence of the suspension and debarment check before entering into the covered transaction or evidence of the review and approval of the verification check. Cause: Management oversight. Effect: The auditor noted instances of noncompliance. Noncompliance results in procurement transactions for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award not conducted in a manner providing full and open competition and other general procurement standards, as applicable. Also, noncompliance results in procurement transactions with potentially suspended or debarred entities. Repeat Finding: This audit finding was reported in the prior year in finding 2022-004. Recommendation: We recommend the County design controls to ensure compliance with federal procurement and suspension and debarment regulation and its purchasing policy and suspension and debarment verification procedures. We recommend the County develop standard justification forms with approval of the noncompetitive procurement documented on the forms and the forms maintained in the procurement file. Also, we recommend the County update its purchasing policy to ensure clear, concise, and detailed suspension and debarment verification procedures. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement from responsible officials
Criteria or specific requirement: According to § 200.303 Internal controls of 2 CFR Part 200, the nonfederal entity must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the nonfederal entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award. According to § 200.318 General procurement standards of 2 CFR Part 200, the nonfederal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. According to § 200.320 Methods of procurement to be followed of 2 CFR Part 200, 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 nonfederal entity, formal procurement methods are required. According to § 180.300 of Subpart C - Responsibilities of Participants Regarding Transactions Doing Business With Other Persons of 2 CFR Part 180, 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; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. According to Section 3.4 Formal Solicitations of the County's Purchasing Policy, Purchases of goods and services with an estimated cost of $25,000 or more (including tax, installation, and freight), shall be made as the result of a Formal Solicitation process including but not limited to Invitations for Bids, Requests for Proposals, Requests for Qualifications, Requests for Information and any other formal solicitation method that can be completed within a timeframe that allows for the solicitation, evaluation and approval in accordance with this Section. Formal solicitations may be solicited through Purchasing’s web based system or as otherwise directed by the Purchasing Agent. According to Section 3.5 Exceptions to Competitive Solicitation of the County's Purchasing Policy, in certain circumstances competitive solicitations may not be the most cost-effective approach for procurement. The Board of Supervisors, County Executive, or Purchasing may waive requirements for competitive solicitations in accordance with the grounds permitted by law. Key exemption categories are identified in the Purchasing Policy. Exceptions are not intended to circumvent the competitive process and related County policies and does not eliminate the need to ensure purchases are competitively priced and the terms and conditions of the purchase are in the best interests of the County. A written determination of the basis for the exception to competitive solicitation and the reason for the selection of the particular source shall be included in Purchasing’s records. According to the County's suspension and debarment verification process, prior to entering into an applicable contract or subrecipient agreement, department will verify on SAM.gov if an entity is listed as suspended or debarred. Condition: The County did not follow federal procurement and suspension and debarment regulation nor its purchasing policy and suspension and debarment verification procedures. Questioned costs: None Context: During our testing, we noted the following matters related to procurement and suspension and debarment. Assistance Listing Number 21.027 • For one of eleven procurements, there is no written justification, documentary support, nor evidence of approval of the emergency procurement in the procurement file. Assistance Listing Number 93.323 • For one of two procurements, the County did not maintain evidence of the suspension and debarment check before entering into the covered transaction or evidence of the review and approval of the verification check. Cause: Management oversight. Effect: The auditor noted instances of noncompliance. Noncompliance results in procurement transactions for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award not conducted in a manner providing full and open competition and other general procurement standards, as applicable. Also, noncompliance results in procurement transactions with potentially suspended or debarred entities. Repeat Finding: This audit finding was reported in the prior year in finding 2022-004. Recommendation: We recommend the County design controls to ensure compliance with federal procurement and suspension and debarment regulation and its purchasing policy and suspension and debarment verification procedures. We recommend the County develop standard justification forms with approval of the noncompetitive procurement documented on the forms and the forms maintained in the procurement file. Also, we recommend the County update its purchasing policy to ensure clear, concise, and detailed suspension and debarment verification procedures. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement from responsible officials
Criteria or specific requirement: According to § 200.303 Internal controls of 2 CFR Part 200, the nonfederal entity must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the nonfederal entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award. According to § 200.318 General procurement standards of 2 CFR Part 200, the nonfederal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. According to § 200.320 Methods of procurement to be followed of 2 CFR Part 200, 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 nonfederal entity, formal procurement methods are required. According to § 180.300 of Subpart C - Responsibilities of Participants Regarding Transactions Doing Business With Other Persons of 2 CFR Part 180, 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; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. According to Section 3.4 Formal Solicitations of the County's Purchasing Policy, Purchases of goods and services with an estimated cost of $25,000 or more (including tax, installation, and freight), shall be made as the result of a Formal Solicitation process including but not limited to Invitations for Bids, Requests for Proposals, Requests for Qualifications, Requests for Information and any other formal solicitation method that can be completed within a timeframe that allows for the solicitation, evaluation and approval in accordance with this Section. Formal solicitations may be solicited through Purchasing’s web based system or as otherwise directed by the Purchasing Agent. According to Section 3.5 Exceptions to Competitive Solicitation of the County's Purchasing Policy, in certain circumstances competitive solicitations may not be the most cost-effective approach for procurement. The Board of Supervisors, County Executive, or Purchasing may waive requirements for competitive solicitations in accordance with the grounds permitted by law. Key exemption categories are identified in the Purchasing Policy. Exceptions are not intended to circumvent the competitive process and related County policies and does not eliminate the need to ensure purchases are competitively priced and the terms and conditions of the purchase are in the best interests of the County. A written determination of the basis for the exception to competitive solicitation and the reason for the selection of the particular source shall be included in Purchasing’s records. According to the County's suspension and debarment verification process, prior to entering into an applicable contract or subrecipient agreement, department will verify on SAM.gov if an entity is listed as suspended or debarred. Condition: The County did not follow federal procurement and suspension and debarment regulation nor its purchasing policy and suspension and debarment verification procedures. Questioned costs: None Context: During our testing, we noted the following matters related to procurement and suspension and debarment. Assistance Listing Number 21.027 • For one of eleven procurements, there is no written justification, documentary support, nor evidence of approval of the emergency procurement in the procurement file. Assistance Listing Number 93.323 • For one of two procurements, the County did not maintain evidence of the suspension and debarment check before entering into the covered transaction or evidence of the review and approval of the verification check. Cause: Management oversight. Effect: The auditor noted instances of noncompliance. Noncompliance results in procurement transactions for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award not conducted in a manner providing full and open competition and other general procurement standards, as applicable. Also, noncompliance results in procurement transactions with potentially suspended or debarred entities. Repeat Finding: This audit finding was reported in the prior year in finding 2022-004. Recommendation: We recommend the County design controls to ensure compliance with federal procurement and suspension and debarment regulation and its purchasing policy and suspension and debarment verification procedures. We recommend the County develop standard justification forms with approval of the noncompetitive procurement documented on the forms and the forms maintained in the procurement file. Also, we recommend the County update its purchasing policy to ensure clear, concise, and detailed suspension and debarment verification procedures. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement from responsible officials
Finding – Internal control deficiencies over procurement requirements Identification of the Federal Program: Assistance Listing Number and Title: 14.231, Emergency Solutions Grant Coronavirus Program Federal Grantor Name: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Federal Award/Contract Number: NA Pass-through Entity Name: California Department of Housing and Community Development Pass-through Award/Contract Number: 20-ESGCV-3-00002 Compliance Requirement – Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Condition: The City did not comply with 2 CFR 200.320 or with City procurement policies. The City did not obtain quotes for vehicles purchased. Criteria: Grant recipients must comply with Uniform Guidance for procurement, specifically with 2 CFR sections 200.318 thru 200.326 including ensuring the procurement method used for the contracts are appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320(a)(1) and (2). Cause: The City did not have proper internal control over the procurement requirements of this federal program. Effect: The City is out of compliance with procurement requirements. Questioned Costs: $199,274 Context: A small purchase could have been applied as the total amount spent under the contract was more than the micro-purchase amount but less than the simplified acquisition threshold. Under small purchase procedures price or rate quotes must be obtained. Identification of a repeat finding: Not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend that the City establish and maintain effective internal control ensuring an understanding of procurement compliance requirements prior to entering into contracts with vendors with the intention of using grant monies. Views of responsible officials: Management concurs with the finding.
Federal Program Information: COVID – Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (ALN #21.027) Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory or Other Citation): Procurement: The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of 2 CFR 200.318, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. Condition: The College did not have a formal procurement policy in place documenting procedures that conform to the procurement standards in the Uniform Guidance. Cause: Lack of administrative oversight with respect to procurement process. Effect or Potential Effect: The College is not in compliance with procurement standards. Questioned Costs: None. Context: The College did not have a formal procurement policy in place documenting procedures that conform to the procurement standards in the Uniform Guidance. Identification as a Repeat Finding: There was no similar finding identified during the prior year. Recommendation: We recommend the College develop and implement a procurement policy conforming to procurement standards. Views of Responsible Officials:
2023 – 002 Federal Agency: U.S Department of Agriculture Federal Program Name: Child Nutrition Cluster Assistance Listing Numbers: 10.553, 10.555 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: 212WI063N1199, 222WI063N1199; 2022 and 2023 Pass-Through Agency: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Pass-Through Number(s): 2021-454515-NSL-547 Award Period: July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Other Matter Criteria or specific requirement: Uniform Guidance requires grant recipients implement and apply procurement policies that align with the requirements outlined in 2 CFR part 200.318-320, including the selection of vendors based on the identified informal and formal procurement methods, referred to as micro-purchases, small purchases, sealed bids, proposals and when noncompetitive procurement methods may be applied. The grant recipients are also required to design and implement an internal control structure to ensure compliance with procurement standards identified in 2 CFR Part 200.318-320 are complied with and necessary documentation retained. Condition: During our evaluation of the District's procurement policies in effect for the year under audit, it was noted that the policy in force for part of the year did not identify the correct thresholds for the selection of vendors in informal procurement methods, micro-purchases and small purchase. The policy was update during the year to comply with such requirements. Questioned costs: None. Context: The District's purchasing policy updated during the year to comply the thresholds in Uniform Guidance and to required retention of documentation of these evaluations. Prior to this update, the District's purchasing policy was had not been updated for several years and did not include all necessary aspects to comply with Uniform Guidance. Cause: The District did not complete its review and updating of the procurement prior to the beginning of year and the initiation of current contracts. Effect: The District's purchasing policy in effect during part of the year under audit did not fully comply with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance related to the use of informal procurement methods, micro-purchase and small purchase transactions. Repeat finding: This is a repeat of finding 2022-002. Recommendation: We recommend the District should review and update, as necessary, policies to ensure they fully comply with Uniform Guidance and any other applicable requirements. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
2023 – 002 Federal Agency: U.S Department of Agriculture Federal Program Name: Child Nutrition Cluster Assistance Listing Numbers: 10.553, 10.555 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: 212WI063N1199, 222WI063N1199; 2022 and 2023 Pass-Through Agency: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Pass-Through Number(s): 2021-454515-NSL-547 Award Period: July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Other Matter Criteria or specific requirement: Uniform Guidance requires grant recipients implement and apply procurement policies that align with the requirements outlined in 2 CFR part 200.318-320, including the selection of vendors based on the identified informal and formal procurement methods, referred to as micro-purchases, small purchases, sealed bids, proposals and when noncompetitive procurement methods may be applied. The grant recipients are also required to design and implement an internal control structure to ensure compliance with procurement standards identified in 2 CFR Part 200.318-320 are complied with and necessary documentation retained. Condition: During our evaluation of the District's procurement policies in effect for the year under audit, it was noted that the policy in force for part of the year did not identify the correct thresholds for the selection of vendors in informal procurement methods, micro-purchases and small purchase. The policy was update during the year to comply with such requirements. Questioned costs: None. Context: The District's purchasing policy updated during the year to comply the thresholds in Uniform Guidance and to required retention of documentation of these evaluations. Prior to this update, the District's purchasing policy was had not been updated for several years and did not include all necessary aspects to comply with Uniform Guidance. Cause: The District did not complete its review and updating of the procurement prior to the beginning of year and the initiation of current contracts. Effect: The District's purchasing policy in effect during part of the year under audit did not fully comply with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance related to the use of informal procurement methods, micro-purchase and small purchase transactions. Repeat finding: This is a repeat of finding 2022-002. Recommendation: We recommend the District should review and update, as necessary, policies to ensure they fully comply with Uniform Guidance and any other applicable requirements. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
2023 – 002 Federal Agency: U.S Department of Agriculture Federal Program Name: Child Nutrition Cluster Assistance Listing Numbers: 10.553, 10.555 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: 212WI063N1199, 222WI063N1199; 2022 and 2023 Pass-Through Agency: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Pass-Through Number(s): 2021-454515-NSL-547 Award Period: July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Other Matter Criteria or specific requirement: Uniform Guidance requires grant recipients implement and apply procurement policies that align with the requirements outlined in 2 CFR part 200.318-320, including the selection of vendors based on the identified informal and formal procurement methods, referred to as micro-purchases, small purchases, sealed bids, proposals and when noncompetitive procurement methods may be applied. The grant recipients are also required to design and implement an internal control structure to ensure compliance with procurement standards identified in 2 CFR Part 200.318-320 are complied with and necessary documentation retained. Condition: During our evaluation of the District's procurement policies in effect for the year under audit, it was noted that the policy in force for part of the year did not identify the correct thresholds for the selection of vendors in informal procurement methods, micro-purchases and small purchase. The policy was update during the year to comply with such requirements. Questioned costs: None. Context: The District's purchasing policy updated during the year to comply the thresholds in Uniform Guidance and to required retention of documentation of these evaluations. Prior to this update, the District's purchasing policy was had not been updated for several years and did not include all necessary aspects to comply with Uniform Guidance. Cause: The District did not complete its review and updating of the procurement prior to the beginning of year and the initiation of current contracts. Effect: The District's purchasing policy in effect during part of the year under audit did not fully comply with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance related to the use of informal procurement methods, micro-purchase and small purchase transactions. Repeat finding: This is a repeat of finding 2022-002. Recommendation: We recommend the District should review and update, as necessary, policies to ensure they fully comply with Uniform Guidance and any other applicable requirements. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
2023-004 - Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment – Internal Control over Procurement and Verification Against the System for Award Management (“SAM”) (Significant Deficiency) Identification of the Federal Program: Assistance Listing Number: 14.218 Federal Program Name: Community Development Block Grants-Entitlement Grants Cluster Federal Agency: Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-Through Entity: N/A Federal Award Number(s) and Award Year: B-21-MC-06-0554 Assistance Listing Number: 21.027 Assistance Listing Title: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Federal Agency: Department of Treasury Pass-Through Entity: N/A Federal Award Number and Award Year: N/A Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Suspension and Debarment, Non-Federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred. “Covered transactions” include those procurement contracts for goods and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (e.g., grant or cooperative agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000 or meet certain other criteria as specified in 2 CFR section 180.220. All nonprocurement transactions entered into by a recipient (i.e., subawards to subrecipients), irrespective of award amount, are considered covered transactions, unless they are exempt as provided in 2 CFR section 180.215. When a non-Federal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the non-Federal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. This verification may be accomplished by (1) checking the System for Award Management (SAM) Exclusions maintained by the General Services Administration (GSA) and available at https://www.sam.gov/portal/public/SAM/ (Note: The OMB guidance at 2 CFR part 180 and agency implementing regulations still refer to the SAM Exclusions as the Excluded Parties List System (EPLS)), (2) collecting a certification from the entity, or (3) adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that entity (2 CFR section 180.300). In accordance with OMB Uniform Guidance, entities under the program, including subrecipients of a state, must follow the procurement standards in 2 CFR sections § 200.318 through § 200.327, including ensuring that the procurement method used for the contracts are appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. C.F.R. § 200.319 prescribes that all procurement transactions for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award must be conducted in a manner providing full and open competition consistent with the standards of this section and § 200.320. Further, the non-Federal entity must ensure that all prequalified lists of persons, firms, or products which are used in acquiring goods and services are current and include enough qualified sources to ensure maximum open and free competition. Also, the non-Federal entity must not preclude potential bidders from qualifying during the solicitation period. Condition: Community Development Block Grants-Entitlement Grants Cluster Based on the City’s formal purchasing policy, purchase orders are required to initiate purchases from procured vendors for transactions above $5,000. During our audit, we noted that seven (7) out of forty (40) samples did have purchase order approval made subsequent to invoice approval. The aforementioned circumstance suggests that the method of procurement was not in line with the City’s adopted policy established in line with the Uniform Guidance. Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds We determined that seven (7) out of forty (40) samples did have purchase order approval made subsequent to invoice approval. The aforementioned circumstance suggests that the method of procurement was not in line with the City’s adopted policy established in line with the Uniform Guidance. During our audit, we also noted that there was no supporting document to indicate that the City verified the vendor against the SAM to ensure the vendor was not suspended or debarred from federally-funded programs before the contract was entered into. Cause: The City did not follow its policies and process in place to check and ensure the suspension and debarment review process over vendors that provides goods or services to the City’s programs was conducted prior to enter into contract. The City implemented necessary procedures to address the finding discovered during the audit for the year ended June 30,2022 prospectively, however, due to the timing of the previous audit, the City was not able to address for the year ended June 30, 2023. Effect or Potential Effect: Without verifying whether vendors are suspended or debarred from working on federally-funded projects prior to the contract awarded, the City could be contracting with vendors that are prohibited from working on federally funded projects. Questioned Costs: None. Context: See condition above for context of the finding. Identification as a Repeat Finding, If Applicable: Yes. See prior year finding 2022-004. Recommendation: We recommended the City follow internal control policies and procedures to incorporate the suspension and debarment verification prior to awarding contracts. Views of Responsible Officials: Management concurs the finding.
2023-004 - Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment – Internal Control over Procurement and Verification Against the System for Award Management (“SAM”) (Significant Deficiency) Identification of the Federal Program: Assistance Listing Number: 14.218 Federal Program Name: Community Development Block Grants-Entitlement Grants Cluster Federal Agency: Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-Through Entity: N/A Federal Award Number(s) and Award Year: B-21-MC-06-0554 Assistance Listing Number: 21.027 Assistance Listing Title: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Federal Agency: Department of Treasury Pass-Through Entity: N/A Federal Award Number and Award Year: N/A Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Suspension and Debarment, Non-Federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred. “Covered transactions” include those procurement contracts for goods and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (e.g., grant or cooperative agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000 or meet certain other criteria as specified in 2 CFR section 180.220. All nonprocurement transactions entered into by a recipient (i.e., subawards to subrecipients), irrespective of award amount, are considered covered transactions, unless they are exempt as provided in 2 CFR section 180.215. When a non-Federal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the non-Federal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. This verification may be accomplished by (1) checking the System for Award Management (SAM) Exclusions maintained by the General Services Administration (GSA) and available at https://www.sam.gov/portal/public/SAM/ (Note: The OMB guidance at 2 CFR part 180 and agency implementing regulations still refer to the SAM Exclusions as the Excluded Parties List System (EPLS)), (2) collecting a certification from the entity, or (3) adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that entity (2 CFR section 180.300). In accordance with OMB Uniform Guidance, entities under the program, including subrecipients of a state, must follow the procurement standards in 2 CFR sections § 200.318 through § 200.327, including ensuring that the procurement method used for the contracts are appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. C.F.R. § 200.319 prescribes that all procurement transactions for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award must be conducted in a manner providing full and open competition consistent with the standards of this section and § 200.320. Further, the non-Federal entity must ensure that all prequalified lists of persons, firms, or products which are used in acquiring goods and services are current and include enough qualified sources to ensure maximum open and free competition. Also, the non-Federal entity must not preclude potential bidders from qualifying during the solicitation period. Condition: Community Development Block Grants-Entitlement Grants Cluster Based on the City’s formal purchasing policy, purchase orders are required to initiate purchases from procured vendors for transactions above $5,000. During our audit, we noted that seven (7) out of forty (40) samples did have purchase order approval made subsequent to invoice approval. The aforementioned circumstance suggests that the method of procurement was not in line with the City’s adopted policy established in line with the Uniform Guidance. Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds We determined that seven (7) out of forty (40) samples did have purchase order approval made subsequent to invoice approval. The aforementioned circumstance suggests that the method of procurement was not in line with the City’s adopted policy established in line with the Uniform Guidance. During our audit, we also noted that there was no supporting document to indicate that the City verified the vendor against the SAM to ensure the vendor was not suspended or debarred from federally-funded programs before the contract was entered into. Cause: The City did not follow its policies and process in place to check and ensure the suspension and debarment review process over vendors that provides goods or services to the City’s programs was conducted prior to enter into contract. The City implemented necessary procedures to address the finding discovered during the audit for the year ended June 30,2022 prospectively, however, due to the timing of the previous audit, the City was not able to address for the year ended June 30, 2023. Effect or Potential Effect: Without verifying whether vendors are suspended or debarred from working on federally-funded projects prior to the contract awarded, the City could be contracting with vendors that are prohibited from working on federally funded projects. Questioned Costs: None. Context: See condition above for context of the finding. Identification as a Repeat Finding, If Applicable: Yes. See prior year finding 2022-004. Recommendation: We recommended the City follow internal control policies and procedures to incorporate the suspension and debarment verification prior to awarding contracts. Views of Responsible Officials: Management concurs the finding.
2023-004 - Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment – Internal Control over Procurement and Verification Against the System for Award Management (“SAM”) (Significant Deficiency) Identification of the Federal Program: Assistance Listing Number: 14.218 Federal Program Name: Community Development Block Grants-Entitlement Grants Cluster Federal Agency: Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-Through Entity: N/A Federal Award Number(s) and Award Year: B-21-MC-06-0554 Assistance Listing Number: 21.027 Assistance Listing Title: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Federal Agency: Department of Treasury Pass-Through Entity: N/A Federal Award Number and Award Year: N/A Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Suspension and Debarment, Non-Federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred. “Covered transactions” include those procurement contracts for goods and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (e.g., grant or cooperative agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000 or meet certain other criteria as specified in 2 CFR section 180.220. All nonprocurement transactions entered into by a recipient (i.e., subawards to subrecipients), irrespective of award amount, are considered covered transactions, unless they are exempt as provided in 2 CFR section 180.215. When a non-Federal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the non-Federal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. This verification may be accomplished by (1) checking the System for Award Management (SAM) Exclusions maintained by the General Services Administration (GSA) and available at https://www.sam.gov/portal/public/SAM/ (Note: The OMB guidance at 2 CFR part 180 and agency implementing regulations still refer to the SAM Exclusions as the Excluded Parties List System (EPLS)), (2) collecting a certification from the entity, or (3) adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that entity (2 CFR section 180.300). In accordance with OMB Uniform Guidance, entities under the program, including subrecipients of a state, must follow the procurement standards in 2 CFR sections § 200.318 through § 200.327, including ensuring that the procurement method used for the contracts are appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. C.F.R. § 200.319 prescribes that all procurement transactions for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award must be conducted in a manner providing full and open competition consistent with the standards of this section and § 200.320. Further, the non-Federal entity must ensure that all prequalified lists of persons, firms, or products which are used in acquiring goods and services are current and include enough qualified sources to ensure maximum open and free competition. Also, the non-Federal entity must not preclude potential bidders from qualifying during the solicitation period. Condition: Community Development Block Grants-Entitlement Grants Cluster Based on the City’s formal purchasing policy, purchase orders are required to initiate purchases from procured vendors for transactions above $5,000. During our audit, we noted that seven (7) out of forty (40) samples did have purchase order approval made subsequent to invoice approval. The aforementioned circumstance suggests that the method of procurement was not in line with the City’s adopted policy established in line with the Uniform Guidance. Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds We determined that seven (7) out of forty (40) samples did have purchase order approval made subsequent to invoice approval. The aforementioned circumstance suggests that the method of procurement was not in line with the City’s adopted policy established in line with the Uniform Guidance. During our audit, we also noted that there was no supporting document to indicate that the City verified the vendor against the SAM to ensure the vendor was not suspended or debarred from federally-funded programs before the contract was entered into. Cause: The City did not follow its policies and process in place to check and ensure the suspension and debarment review process over vendors that provides goods or services to the City’s programs was conducted prior to enter into contract. The City implemented necessary procedures to address the finding discovered during the audit for the year ended June 30,2022 prospectively, however, due to the timing of the previous audit, the City was not able to address for the year ended June 30, 2023. Effect or Potential Effect: Without verifying whether vendors are suspended or debarred from working on federally-funded projects prior to the contract awarded, the City could be contracting with vendors that are prohibited from working on federally funded projects. Questioned Costs: None. Context: See condition above for context of the finding. Identification as a Repeat Finding, If Applicable: Yes. See prior year finding 2022-004. Recommendation: We recommended the City follow internal control policies and procedures to incorporate the suspension and debarment verification prior to awarding contracts. Views of Responsible Officials: Management concurs the finding.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development ‐ CFDA #14.267 Continuum of Care Program Applicable Federal Award Number and Year – AZ0089L9T022114, AZ0170L9T022106, AZ0170L9T022005, AZ0132L9T022109, AZ0132L9T022008, AZ0192L9T022003, AZ0192L9T022104, AZ0090L9T022013 ‐ 2023 / 2022 Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria: Non‐federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Condition: During our testing, we identified that the Organization was not following their procurement policy. The Organization’s procurement policy is to obtain a minimum of 3 written bids for purchases greater than $10,000. The Organization selected an approved GSA vendor as allowed by Uniform Guidance; however, the Organization didn’t obtain any written bids as required by their procurement policy. Cause: Due to a lack of understanding of the procurement policy, the Organization did not obtain 3 written bids. Effect: The Organization did not comply with their procurement policy. Questioned Costs: None reported. Context/Sampling: A non‐statistical sample of 2 expenditures were selected for testing. For 1 out of the 2 transactions selected, the Organization did not obtain 3 written bids as required by the procurement policy. Repeat Finding from Prior Year: No Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization implement internal controls to ensure the procurement policy is followed or update the procurement policy to follow the Organization’s current practice. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development ‐ CFDA #14.267 Continuum of Care Program Applicable Federal Award Number and Year – AZ0089L9T022114, AZ0170L9T022106, AZ0170L9T022005, AZ0132L9T022109, AZ0132L9T022008, AZ0192L9T022003, AZ0192L9T022104, AZ0090L9T022013 ‐ 2023 / 2022 Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria: Non‐federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Condition: During our testing, we identified that the Organization was not following their procurement policy. The Organization’s procurement policy is to obtain a minimum of 3 written bids for purchases greater than $10,000. The Organization selected an approved GSA vendor as allowed by Uniform Guidance; however, the Organization didn’t obtain any written bids as required by their procurement policy. Cause: Due to a lack of understanding of the procurement policy, the Organization did not obtain 3 written bids. Effect: The Organization did not comply with their procurement policy. Questioned Costs: None reported. Context/Sampling: A non‐statistical sample of 2 expenditures were selected for testing. For 1 out of the 2 transactions selected, the Organization did not obtain 3 written bids as required by the procurement policy. Repeat Finding from Prior Year: No Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization implement internal controls to ensure the procurement policy is followed or update the procurement policy to follow the Organization’s current practice. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development ‐ CFDA #14.267 Continuum of Care Program Applicable Federal Award Number and Year – AZ0089L9T022114, AZ0170L9T022106, AZ0170L9T022005, AZ0132L9T022109, AZ0132L9T022008, AZ0192L9T022003, AZ0192L9T022104, AZ0090L9T022013 ‐ 2023 / 2022 Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria: Non‐federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Condition: During our testing, we identified that the Organization was not following their procurement policy. The Organization’s procurement policy is to obtain a minimum of 3 written bids for purchases greater than $10,000. The Organization selected an approved GSA vendor as allowed by Uniform Guidance; however, the Organization didn’t obtain any written bids as required by their procurement policy. Cause: Due to a lack of understanding of the procurement policy, the Organization did not obtain 3 written bids. Effect: The Organization did not comply with their procurement policy. Questioned Costs: None reported. Context/Sampling: A non‐statistical sample of 2 expenditures were selected for testing. For 1 out of the 2 transactions selected, the Organization did not obtain 3 written bids as required by the procurement policy. Repeat Finding from Prior Year: No Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization implement internal controls to ensure the procurement policy is followed or update the procurement policy to follow the Organization’s current practice. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development ‐ CFDA #14.267 Continuum of Care Program Applicable Federal Award Number and Year – AZ0089L9T022114, AZ0170L9T022106, AZ0170L9T022005, AZ0132L9T022109, AZ0132L9T022008, AZ0192L9T022003, AZ0192L9T022104, AZ0090L9T022013 ‐ 2023 / 2022 Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria: Non‐federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Condition: During our testing, we identified that the Organization was not following their procurement policy. The Organization’s procurement policy is to obtain a minimum of 3 written bids for purchases greater than $10,000. The Organization selected an approved GSA vendor as allowed by Uniform Guidance; however, the Organization didn’t obtain any written bids as required by their procurement policy. Cause: Due to a lack of understanding of the procurement policy, the Organization did not obtain 3 written bids. Effect: The Organization did not comply with their procurement policy. Questioned Costs: None reported. Context/Sampling: A non‐statistical sample of 2 expenditures were selected for testing. For 1 out of the 2 transactions selected, the Organization did not obtain 3 written bids as required by the procurement policy. Repeat Finding from Prior Year: No Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization implement internal controls to ensure the procurement policy is followed or update the procurement policy to follow the Organization’s current practice. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development ‐ CFDA #14.267 Continuum of Care Program Applicable Federal Award Number and Year – AZ0089L9T022114, AZ0170L9T022106, AZ0170L9T022005, AZ0132L9T022109, AZ0132L9T022008, AZ0192L9T022003, AZ0192L9T022104, AZ0090L9T022013 ‐ 2023 / 2022 Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria: Non‐federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Condition: During our testing, we identified that the Organization was not following their procurement policy. The Organization’s procurement policy is to obtain a minimum of 3 written bids for purchases greater than $10,000. The Organization selected an approved GSA vendor as allowed by Uniform Guidance; however, the Organization didn’t obtain any written bids as required by their procurement policy. Cause: Due to a lack of understanding of the procurement policy, the Organization did not obtain 3 written bids. Effect: The Organization did not comply with their procurement policy. Questioned Costs: None reported. Context/Sampling: A non‐statistical sample of 2 expenditures were selected for testing. For 1 out of the 2 transactions selected, the Organization did not obtain 3 written bids as required by the procurement policy. Repeat Finding from Prior Year: No Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization implement internal controls to ensure the procurement policy is followed or update the procurement policy to follow the Organization’s current practice. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development ‐ CFDA #14.267 Continuum of Care Program Applicable Federal Award Number and Year – AZ0089L9T022114, AZ0170L9T022106, AZ0170L9T022005, AZ0132L9T022109, AZ0132L9T022008, AZ0192L9T022003, AZ0192L9T022104, AZ0090L9T022013 ‐ 2023 / 2022 Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria: Non‐federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Condition: During our testing, we identified that the Organization was not following their procurement policy. The Organization’s procurement policy is to obtain a minimum of 3 written bids for purchases greater than $10,000. The Organization selected an approved GSA vendor as allowed by Uniform Guidance; however, the Organization didn’t obtain any written bids as required by their procurement policy. Cause: Due to a lack of understanding of the procurement policy, the Organization did not obtain 3 written bids. Effect: The Organization did not comply with their procurement policy. Questioned Costs: None reported. Context/Sampling: A non‐statistical sample of 2 expenditures were selected for testing. For 1 out of the 2 transactions selected, the Organization did not obtain 3 written bids as required by the procurement policy. Repeat Finding from Prior Year: No Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization implement internal controls to ensure the procurement policy is followed or update the procurement policy to follow the Organization’s current practice. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development ‐ CFDA #14.267 Continuum of Care Program Applicable Federal Award Number and Year – AZ0089L9T022114, AZ0170L9T022106, AZ0170L9T022005, AZ0132L9T022109, AZ0132L9T022008, AZ0192L9T022003, AZ0192L9T022104, AZ0090L9T022013 ‐ 2023 / 2022 Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria: Non‐federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Condition: During our testing, we identified that the Organization was not following their procurement policy. The Organization’s procurement policy is to obtain a minimum of 3 written bids for purchases greater than $10,000. The Organization selected an approved GSA vendor as allowed by Uniform Guidance; however, the Organization didn’t obtain any written bids as required by their procurement policy. Cause: Due to a lack of understanding of the procurement policy, the Organization did not obtain 3 written bids. Effect: The Organization did not comply with their procurement policy. Questioned Costs: None reported. Context/Sampling: A non‐statistical sample of 2 expenditures were selected for testing. For 1 out of the 2 transactions selected, the Organization did not obtain 3 written bids as required by the procurement policy. Repeat Finding from Prior Year: No Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization implement internal controls to ensure the procurement policy is followed or update the procurement policy to follow the Organization’s current practice. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development ‐ CFDA #14.267 Continuum of Care Program Applicable Federal Award Number and Year – AZ0089L9T022114, AZ0170L9T022106, AZ0170L9T022005, AZ0132L9T022109, AZ0132L9T022008, AZ0192L9T022003, AZ0192L9T022104, AZ0090L9T022013 ‐ 2023 / 2022 Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria: Non‐federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Condition: During our testing, we identified that the Organization was not following their procurement policy. The Organization’s procurement policy is to obtain a minimum of 3 written bids for purchases greater than $10,000. The Organization selected an approved GSA vendor as allowed by Uniform Guidance; however, the Organization didn’t obtain any written bids as required by their procurement policy. Cause: Due to a lack of understanding of the procurement policy, the Organization did not obtain 3 written bids. Effect: The Organization did not comply with their procurement policy. Questioned Costs: None reported. Context/Sampling: A non‐statistical sample of 2 expenditures were selected for testing. For 1 out of the 2 transactions selected, the Organization did not obtain 3 written bids as required by the procurement policy. Repeat Finding from Prior Year: No Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization implement internal controls to ensure the procurement policy is followed or update the procurement policy to follow the Organization’s current practice. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding.
NONCOMPLIANCE WITH PROCUREMENT, SUSPENSION & DEBARMENT REQUIREMENTS, CORONAVIRUS STATE AND LOCAL FISCAL RECOVERY FUNDS; AL No. 21.027; GRANT No. Direct and AM-23-0287 Criteria: Per section 13 of Treasury’s Final Rule FAQs and 2 CFR 200.214, counties must comply with the procurement standards set forth in 2 CFR 200.318, through 2 CFR 200.327, when using their SLFRF award funds to procure goods and services to carry out the objectives of their SLFRF award. In addition, 2 CFR 200.214, prohibits recipients from using SLFRF funds to enter into subawards and contracts with parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs. Condition: The city did not verify that program recipients/participants were not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in the program. Cause: The city does not have procurement policies and procedures in place that allow it to comply with procurement standards outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Effect: Non-compliance with program terms and conditions. Questioned Costs: None Recommendation: Management should develop procedures that will provide reasonable assurance that procurement of goods and services are made in compliance with applicable federal regulations and other procurement requirements specific to a federal award or subaward, and that no subaward, contract, or agreement for purchase of goods or services is made with any suspended or debarred party. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective action: The government agrees with this finding and will adhere to the attached corrective action plan.
NONCOMPLIANCE WITH PROCUREMENT, SUSPENSION & DEBARMENT REQUIREMENTS, CORONAVIRUS STATE AND LOCAL FISCAL RECOVERY FUNDS; AL No. 21.027; GRANT No. Direct and AM-23-0287 Criteria: Per section 13 of Treasury’s Final Rule FAQs and 2 CFR 200.214, counties must comply with the procurement standards set forth in 2 CFR 200.318, through 2 CFR 200.327, when using their SLFRF award funds to procure goods and services to carry out the objectives of their SLFRF award. In addition, 2 CFR 200.214, prohibits recipients from using SLFRF funds to enter into subawards and contracts with parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs. Condition: The city did not verify that program recipients/participants were not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in the program. Cause: The city does not have procurement policies and procedures in place that allow it to comply with procurement standards outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Effect: Non-compliance with program terms and conditions. Questioned Costs: None Recommendation: Management should develop procedures that will provide reasonable assurance that procurement of goods and services are made in compliance with applicable federal regulations and other procurement requirements specific to a federal award or subaward, and that no subaward, contract, or agreement for purchase of goods or services is made with any suspended or debarred party. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective action: The government agrees with this finding and will adhere to the attached corrective action plan.
NONCOMPLIANCE WITH PROCUREMENT, SUSPENSION & DEBARMENT REQUIREMENTS, CORONAVIRUS STATE AND LOCAL FISCAL RECOVERY FUNDS; AL No. 21.027, YEAR ENDED JUNE 30 2023 Criteria: Per section 13 of Treasury’s Final Rule FAQs and 2 CFR 200.214, counties must comply with the procurement standards set forth in 2 CFR 200.318, through 2 CFR 200.327, when using their SLFRF award funds to procure goods and services to carry out the objectives of their SLFRF award. In addition, 2 CFR 200.214, prohibits recipients from using SLFRF funds to enter into subawards and contracts with parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs. Condition 1: The county did not verify that program recipients/participants were not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in the program. Condition 2: The county did not formally bid a water and sewer line extension project at the fairgrounds as required by federal procurement standards established in 2 CFR 300.19. Cause: The county does not have procurement policies and procedures in place that allows it to comply with procurement standards outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Effect: Non-compliance with program terms and conditions. Questioned Costs: None Recommendation: Management should develop procedures that will provide reasonable assurance that procurement of goods and services are made in compliance with applicable federal regulations and other procurement requirements specific to a federal award or subaward, and that no subaward, contract, or agreement for purchase of goods or services is made with any suspended or debarred party. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective action: The government agrees with this finding and will adhere to the attached corrective action plan.
NONCOMPLIANCE WITH PROCUREMENT, SUSPENSION & DEBARMENT REQUIREMENTS, CORONAVIRUS STATE AND LOCAL FISCAL RECOVERY FUNDS; AL No. 21.027, YEAR ENDED JUNE 30 2023 Criteria: Per section 13 of Treasury’s Final Rule FAQs and 2 CFR 200.214, counties must comply with the procurement standards set forth in 2 CFR 200.318, through 2 CFR 200.327, when using their SLFRF award funds to procure goods and services to carry out the objectives of their SLFRF award. In addition, 2 CFR 200.214, prohibits recipients from using SLFRF funds to enter into subawards and contracts with parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs. Condition 1: The county did not verify that program recipients/participants were not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in the program. Condition 2: The county did not formally bid a water and sewer line extension project at the fairgrounds as required by federal procurement standards established in 2 CFR 300.19. Cause: The county does not have procurement policies and procedures in place that allows it to comply with procurement standards outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Effect: Non-compliance with program terms and conditions. Questioned Costs: None Recommendation: Management should develop procedures that will provide reasonable assurance that procurement of goods and services are made in compliance with applicable federal regulations and other procurement requirements specific to a federal award or subaward, and that no subaward, contract, or agreement for purchase of goods or services is made with any suspended or debarred party. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective action: The government agrees with this finding and will adhere to the attached corrective action plan.
NONCOMPLIANCE WITH PROCUREMENT, SUSPENSION & DEBARMENT REQUIREMENTS, CORONAVIRUS STATE AND LOCAL FISCAL RECOVERY FUNDS; AL No. 21.027, YEAR ENDED JUNE 30 2023 Criteria: Per section 13 of Treasury’s Final Rule FAQs and 2 CFR 200.214, counties must comply with the procurement standards set forth in 2 CFR 200.318, through 2 CFR 200.327, when using their SLFRF award funds to procure goods and services to carry out the objectives of their SLFRF award. In addition, 2 CFR 200.214, prohibits recipients from using SLFRF funds to enter into subawards and contracts with parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs. Condition 1: The county did not verify that program recipients/participants were not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in the program. Condition 2: The county did not formally bid a water and sewer line extension project at the fairgrounds as required by federal procurement standards established in 2 CFR 300.19. Cause: The county does not have procurement policies and procedures in place that allows it to comply with procurement standards outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Effect: Non-compliance with program terms and conditions. Questioned Costs: None Recommendation: Management should develop procedures that will provide reasonable assurance that procurement of goods and services are made in compliance with applicable federal regulations and other procurement requirements specific to a federal award or subaward, and that no subaward, contract, or agreement for purchase of goods or services is made with any suspended or debarred party. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective action: The government agrees with this finding and will adhere to the attached corrective action plan.
Federal agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal program name: Special Education Cluster Assistance Listing Number: 84.027 and 84.173 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: H027A220087, 2023 Pass-Through Agency: Minnesota Department of Education Pass-Through Number: H027A190087 Award Period: Fiscal year 2023 Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Material Noncompliance (Modified Opinion) Criteria or specific requirement: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. This includes utilizing one of the five allowable procurement methods, including small purchase guidelines for items over the micro-purchase threshold and sealed bids, competitive proposals, or noncompetitive proposals when items exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. In addition, the Uniform Guidance requires that the entity maintain records sufficient to detail the history of the procurement. 2 CFR 200.303 requires that the entity have sufficient controls over compliance related to federal awards. Condition: During our testing of the District’s procurements within the Special Education program, it was noted that not all procurements followed the appropriate method and history of the transaction was not sufficiently documented. Questioned Costs: ALN 84.027 - $38,869 Context: Out of five procurement which were tested, we noted two of them for which the District did not retain documentation detailing the history of the procurement, including the rationale for choosing the particular vendor. Cause: The District during the pandemic and thereafter, was not able to properly ensure all contracts has procurement documentation retained and performed as required by the Uniform Guidance. Effect: The District was not in compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements for the proper documentation of all procurement transactions. Repeat Finding: Yes, 2022-004. Recommendation: We recommend the District reviews its procedures and controls over procurement to ensure that all procurements are documented such that a third party can clearly see and understand the detailed history of the procurement. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Federal agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal program name: Special Education Cluster Assistance Listing Number: 84.027 and 84.173 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: H027A220087, 2023 Pass-Through Agency: Minnesota Department of Education Pass-Through Number: H027A190087 Award Period: Fiscal year 2023 Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Material Noncompliance (Modified Opinion) Criteria or specific requirement: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. This includes utilizing one of the five allowable procurement methods, including small purchase guidelines for items over the micro-purchase threshold and sealed bids, competitive proposals, or noncompetitive proposals when items exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. In addition, the Uniform Guidance requires that the entity maintain records sufficient to detail the history of the procurement. 2 CFR 200.303 requires that the entity have sufficient controls over compliance related to federal awards. Condition: During our testing of the District’s procurements within the Special Education program, it was noted that not all procurements followed the appropriate method and history of the transaction was not sufficiently documented. Questioned Costs: ALN 84.027 - $38,869 Context: Out of five procurement which were tested, we noted two of them for which the District did not retain documentation detailing the history of the procurement, including the rationale for choosing the particular vendor. Cause: The District during the pandemic and thereafter, was not able to properly ensure all contracts has procurement documentation retained and performed as required by the Uniform Guidance. Effect: The District was not in compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements for the proper documentation of all procurement transactions. Repeat Finding: Yes, 2022-004. Recommendation: We recommend the District reviews its procedures and controls over procurement to ensure that all procurements are documented such that a third party can clearly see and understand the detailed history of the procurement. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Federal agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal program name: Special Education Cluster Assistance Listing Number: 84.027 and 84.173 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: H027A220087, 2023 Pass-Through Agency: Minnesota Department of Education Pass-Through Number: H027A190087 Award Period: Fiscal year 2023 Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Material Noncompliance (Modified Opinion) Criteria or specific requirement: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. This includes utilizing one of the five allowable procurement methods, including small purchase guidelines for items over the micro-purchase threshold and sealed bids, competitive proposals, or noncompetitive proposals when items exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. In addition, the Uniform Guidance requires that the entity maintain records sufficient to detail the history of the procurement. 2 CFR 200.303 requires that the entity have sufficient controls over compliance related to federal awards. Condition: During our testing of the District’s procurements within the Special Education program, it was noted that not all procurements followed the appropriate method and history of the transaction was not sufficiently documented. Questioned Costs: ALN 84.027 - $38,869 Context: Out of five procurement which were tested, we noted two of them for which the District did not retain documentation detailing the history of the procurement, including the rationale for choosing the particular vendor. Cause: The District during the pandemic and thereafter, was not able to properly ensure all contracts has procurement documentation retained and performed as required by the Uniform Guidance. Effect: The District was not in compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements for the proper documentation of all procurement transactions. Repeat Finding: Yes, 2022-004. Recommendation: We recommend the District reviews its procedures and controls over procurement to ensure that all procurements are documented such that a third party can clearly see and understand the detailed history of the procurement. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Federal agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal program name: Special Education Cluster Assistance Listing Number: 84.027 and 84.173 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: H027A220087, 2023 Pass-Through Agency: Minnesota Department of Education Pass-Through Number: H027A190087 Award Period: Fiscal year 2023 Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Material Noncompliance (Modified Opinion) Criteria or specific requirement: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. This includes utilizing one of the five allowable procurement methods, including small purchase guidelines for items over the micro-purchase threshold and sealed bids, competitive proposals, or noncompetitive proposals when items exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. In addition, the Uniform Guidance requires that the entity maintain records sufficient to detail the history of the procurement. 2 CFR 200.303 requires that the entity have sufficient controls over compliance related to federal awards. Condition: During our testing of the District’s procurements within the Special Education program, it was noted that not all procurements followed the appropriate method and history of the transaction was not sufficiently documented. Questioned Costs: ALN 84.027 - $38,869 Context: Out of five procurement which were tested, we noted two of them for which the District did not retain documentation detailing the history of the procurement, including the rationale for choosing the particular vendor. Cause: The District during the pandemic and thereafter, was not able to properly ensure all contracts has procurement documentation retained and performed as required by the Uniform Guidance. Effect: The District was not in compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements for the proper documentation of all procurement transactions. Repeat Finding: Yes, 2022-004. Recommendation: We recommend the District reviews its procedures and controls over procurement to ensure that all procurements are documented such that a third party can clearly see and understand the detailed history of the procurement. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Federal agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal program name: Special Education Cluster Assistance Listing Number: 84.027 and 84.173 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: H027A220087, 2023 Pass-Through Agency: Minnesota Department of Education Pass-Through Number: H027A190087 Award Period: Fiscal year 2023 Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Material Noncompliance (Modified Opinion) Criteria or specific requirement: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. This includes utilizing one of the five allowable procurement methods, including small purchase guidelines for items over the micro-purchase threshold and sealed bids, competitive proposals, or noncompetitive proposals when items exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. In addition, the Uniform Guidance requires that the entity maintain records sufficient to detail the history of the procurement. 2 CFR 200.303 requires that the entity have sufficient controls over compliance related to federal awards. Condition: During our testing of the District’s procurements within the Special Education program, it was noted that not all procurements followed the appropriate method and history of the transaction was not sufficiently documented. Questioned Costs: ALN 84.027 - $38,869 Context: Out of five procurement which were tested, we noted two of them for which the District did not retain documentation detailing the history of the procurement, including the rationale for choosing the particular vendor. Cause: The District during the pandemic and thereafter, was not able to properly ensure all contracts has procurement documentation retained and performed as required by the Uniform Guidance. Effect: The District was not in compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements for the proper documentation of all procurement transactions. Repeat Finding: Yes, 2022-004. Recommendation: We recommend the District reviews its procedures and controls over procurement to ensure that all procurements are documented such that a third party can clearly see and understand the detailed history of the procurement. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Finding 2023-002: Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment (Material Weakness) Federal Program: Assistance Listing Number 14.267 Criterion or Specific Requirements: 2 CFR Section 200.318 requires that the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR Section 200.214 requires that, for covered transactions, a non-Federal entity must verify that entities are not suspended, debarred or otherwise excluded. This verification may be accomplished by checking the System for Award Management (SAM) website maintained by the General Services Administration. Condition: IW has a formal written procurement policy, but it does not conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327, which is the Uniform Guidance. As a result, no procurement files were maintained to document IW's procurement actions. In addition, for all disbursements tested, IW could not provide documentation of their verification, prior to payment, that the vendors were not suspended, debarred or otherwise excluded. Questioned Costs: None. Cause: IW has not updated its written procurement policy to conform to the Uniform Guidance. In addition, IW did not require that evidence of SAM checks be maintained in its vendor files. As a result, IW did not maintain adequate support to provide evidence that appropriate suspension and debarment searches were performed. Despite the lack of documentation, a search was performed after the fact to verify that the vendors or individuals in our sample were not suspended, debarred or otherwise excluded. Therefore, no questioned costs have been reported related to the sample that was tested. Effect or Potential Effect: Without an updated procurement policy that conforms to the Uniform Guidance and related procurement documentation, there is a risk that IW did not perform a proper evaluation of each potential vendor whose costs were charged to Federal programs. In addition, IW could not readily provide evidence that it had assessed whether or not its vendors were suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. As a result, the potential for payments to suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded vendors and individuals exists. Recommendation: IW should revise its procurement policy so that it conforms to the Uniform Guidance. Furthermore, IW should maintain documentation in its files to provide evidence to support that it followed the procurement policy. In addition, IW should establish internal controls to ensure documentation is maintained to evidence that it performed the required suspension and debarment searches on the SAM website.
Finding 2023-002: Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment (Material Weakness) Federal Program: Assistance Listing Number 14.267 Criterion or Specific Requirements: 2 CFR Section 200.318 requires that the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR Section 200.214 requires that, for covered transactions, a non-Federal entity must verify that entities are not suspended, debarred or otherwise excluded. This verification may be accomplished by checking the System for Award Management (SAM) website maintained by the General Services Administration. Condition: IW has a formal written procurement policy, but it does not conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327, which is the Uniform Guidance. As a result, no procurement files were maintained to document IW's procurement actions. In addition, for all disbursements tested, IW could not provide documentation of their verification, prior to payment, that the vendors were not suspended, debarred or otherwise excluded. Questioned Costs: None. Cause: IW has not updated its written procurement policy to conform to the Uniform Guidance. In addition, IW did not require that evidence of SAM checks be maintained in its vendor files. As a result, IW did not maintain adequate support to provide evidence that appropriate suspension and debarment searches were performed. Despite the lack of documentation, a search was performed after the fact to verify that the vendors or individuals in our sample were not suspended, debarred or otherwise excluded. Therefore, no questioned costs have been reported related to the sample that was tested. Effect or Potential Effect: Without an updated procurement policy that conforms to the Uniform Guidance and related procurement documentation, there is a risk that IW did not perform a proper evaluation of each potential vendor whose costs were charged to Federal programs. In addition, IW could not readily provide evidence that it had assessed whether or not its vendors were suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. As a result, the potential for payments to suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded vendors and individuals exists. Recommendation: IW should revise its procurement policy so that it conforms to the Uniform Guidance. Furthermore, IW should maintain documentation in its files to provide evidence to support that it followed the procurement policy. In addition, IW should establish internal controls to ensure documentation is maintained to evidence that it performed the required suspension and debarment searches on the SAM website.
2023-002 U.S. Department of Transportation, National Infrastructure Investments: Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant Assistance Listing Number 20.933 Procurement Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303(a) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award the provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations and conditions of the federal award. Non-federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Effective May 14, 2022, the non-Federal entity must ensure that all applicable programs comply with section 70914 of the Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act, including through incorporation of a Buy America preference in the terms and conditions of each award with an infrastructure project. Condition: The Port Authority’s formally documented policy pre-dates Uniform Guidance and does not include many of the necessary procurement provisions. Cause: The Port Authority does not have a policy in place under the most current regulations for the federal programs the Port Authority administrates. Effect: The Port Authority does not have a policy in place and is at risk for not being in accordance with federal regulations for the federal programs the Port Authority administrates. However, note that the Port Authority does use an engineering firm that appears to be following a policy that is up-to-date with federal regulations for this federal program. Questioned costs: None reported.Context: Procurement requirements were applicable to 1 vendor for this program in FY2023. The vendor appears to have bidding documents in accordance with federal regulations, including the BABA Act. Repeat Finding From Prior Year: No Recommendation: The policy should be updated to include all federal requirements for procurement and updated on a regular basis as those regulations change. Views of Responsible Officials: We agree with the finding
Federal Agency: United States Department of Treasury Federal Program Name: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Assistance Listing Number: 21.027 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Not Available Pass-Through Agency: State of Connecticut Office of Policy and Management Pass-Through Number: 12060-OPM20600-29669 Award Period: March 3, 2021 through December 31, 2026 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or specific requirement: 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (UG) requires compliance with the provisions of procurement, suspension, and debarment. Condition: There were no controls in place to review for suspension and debarment on related procurement activities. Questioned Costs: None Context: Although testing did not reveal vendors providing services under this grant that were suspended and debarred, no policy exists for the Town to analyze this requirement. Cause: The Town did not have the resources necessary to implement a conforming policy during the fiscal year. Effect: With the absence of a compliant policy, the Town is at risk for noncompliance as it relates to all federal procurement requirements. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendations: We recommend that the Town review its formal procurement policies and revise with the criteria in 2 CFR sections 200.318 and 200.326. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with this finding.
Federal Agency: United States Department of Treasury Federal Program Name: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Assistance Listing Number: 21.027 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Not Available Pass-Through Agency: State of Connecticut Office of Policy and Management Pass-Through Number: 12060-OPM20600-29669 Award Period: March 3, 2021 through December 31, 2026 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or specific requirement: 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (UG) requires compliance with the provisions of procurement, suspension, and debarment. Condition: There were no controls in place to review for suspension and debarment on related procurement activities. Questioned Costs: None Context: Although testing did not reveal vendors providing services under this grant that were suspended and debarred, no policy exists for the Town to analyze this requirement. Cause: The Town did not have the resources necessary to implement a conforming policy during the fiscal year. Effect: With the absence of a compliant policy, the Town is at risk for noncompliance as it relates to all federal procurement requirements. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendations: We recommend that the Town review its formal procurement policies and revise with the criteria in 2 CFR sections 200.318 and 200.326. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with this finding.
Federal Agency: United States Department of Treasury Federal Program Name: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Assistance Listing Number: 21.027 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Not Available Pass-Through Agency: State of Connecticut Office of Policy and Management Pass-Through Number: 12060-OPM20600-29669 Award Period: March 3, 2021 through December 31, 2026 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or specific requirement: 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (UG) requires compliance with the provisions of procurement, suspension, and debarment. Condition: There were no controls in place to review for suspension and debarment on related procurement activities. Questioned Costs: None Context: Although testing did not reveal vendors providing services under this grant that were suspended and debarred, no policy exists for the Town to analyze this requirement. Cause: The Town did not have the resources necessary to implement a conforming policy during the fiscal year. Effect: With the absence of a compliant policy, the Town is at risk for noncompliance as it relates to all federal procurement requirements. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendations: We recommend that the Town review its formal procurement policies and revise with the criteria in 2 CFR sections 200.318 and 200.326. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with this finding.
FINDING 2023-001 PROCUREMENT SIGNIFICANT DEFICIENCY Federal Program: Charter School Programs Assistance Listing Numbers: 84.282A Criteria Per 2 CFR 200.318, “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.” Per 2 CFR 200.320(a)(2)(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.” Condition The School was unable to provide documentation to support that price comparisons were obtained from vendors for costs falling in the category of small purchases (between $10,000 and $249,999). Additionally, the School’s procedures manual did not include procedures for the handling of these transactions. Cause Documentation was not maintained to support that this step in the procurement process was completed. Effect Not documenting these procedures could result in the School completing procurement transactions not in compliance with Federal regulations. Recommendation We recommend the School develop procedures to ensure price comparisons are obtained and documented. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions The School’s Corrective Action Plan is included on page 23.
FINDING 2023-001 PROCUREMENT SIGNIFICANT DEFICIENCY Federal Program: Charter School Programs Assistance Listing Numbers: 84.282A Criteria Per 2 CFR 200.318, “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.” Per 2 CFR 200.320(a)(2)(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.” Condition The School was unable to provide documentation to support that price comparisons were obtained from vendors for costs falling in the category of small purchases (between $10,000 and $249,999). Additionally, the School’s procedures manual did not include procedures for the handling of these transactions. Cause Documentation was not maintained to support that this step in the procurement process was completed. Effect Not documenting these procedures could result in the School completing procurement transactions not in compliance with Federal regulations. Recommendation We recommend the School develop procedures to ensure price comparisons are obtained and documented. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions The School’s Corrective Action Plan is included on page 23.
Education Stabilization Fund - AL #84.425, Year Ended June 30, 2023 Career and Technical Education - AL #84.048, Year Ended June 30, 2023 U.S. Department of Education Pass-Through Entity - Pennsylvania Department of Education Criteria: The Uniform Guidance requires that non-federal entities must have and use documented procurement procedures consistent with laws and regulations and the standards for the acquisition of property or services under a federal award or subaward in accordance with 2 CFR 200.318. Furthermore, the non-federal entity is required to follow formal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for property or service under a federal financial assistance award exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold in accordance with 2 CFR 200.320. Condition: The Center did not follow the appropriate procedures to comply with Uniform Grant Guidance. During testing, it was noted that the Center made procurements through noncompetitive procurement arrangements. Consistent with 2 CFR § 200.320(c)(3), an LEA may determine that its response to the COVID-19 pandemic qualifies as a public exigency or emergency that does not permit the delay that would result from competitive bidding. Under these circumstances, and to the degree doing so is consistent with its own policies and procedures, the Center could use noncompetitive procurement. The Center should consult with the Pennsylvania Department of Education before using this authority. Subsequently, the Center paid for this purchase utilizing the Education Stabilization Fund and Career and Technical Education monies. In using federal funds to pay for these items, the Center inadvertently did not follow its procurement policy. Cause and Effect: When the Center initially made the purchases, they did not follow the more stringent requirements imposed by Uniform Guidance. The Center did not follow its procurement policy and ultimately did not comply with the standard of the Uniform Grant Guidance. Identification of Repeat Finding: No Questioned Costs: None Recommendation: We recommend that when the Center decides to utilize cooperative purchasing programs or noncompetitive purchasing arrangements and use federal funds to pay for those purchases they ensure that they comply with their procurement policy. The Center should then document its process and how it complies with the procurement standards and keep such documentation with Federal Award budget/procurement documents. Management Response: The Center acknowledges this finding, and has since revised its procurement process to include the requisite items as required by the US DoE (ED) Uniform Grant Guidance (UGG) in its subsequent purchases with Federal Funds. It is also noted that most if not all of these purchases were made in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, and with delayed guidance from PA Department of Education’s Federal Programs Office. When alerted to the guidance, the Center implemented the proper procedures
Education Stabilization Fund - AL #84.425, Year Ended June 30, 2023 Career and Technical Education - AL #84.048, Year Ended June 30, 2023 U.S. Department of Education Pass-Through Entity - Pennsylvania Department of Education Criteria: The Uniform Guidance requires that non-federal entities must have and use documented procurement procedures consistent with laws and regulations and the standards for the acquisition of property or services under a federal award or subaward in accordance with 2 CFR 200.318. Furthermore, the non-federal entity is required to follow formal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for property or service under a federal financial assistance award exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold in accordance with 2 CFR 200.320. Condition: The Center did not follow the appropriate procedures to comply with Uniform Grant Guidance. During testing, it was noted that the Center made procurements through noncompetitive procurement arrangements. Consistent with 2 CFR § 200.320(c)(3), an LEA may determine that its response to the COVID-19 pandemic qualifies as a public exigency or emergency that does not permit the delay that would result from competitive bidding. Under these circumstances, and to the degree doing so is consistent with its own policies and procedures, the Center could use noncompetitive procurement. The Center should consult with the Pennsylvania Department of Education before using this authority. Subsequently, the Center paid for this purchase utilizing the Education Stabilization Fund and Career and Technical Education monies. In using federal funds to pay for these items, the Center inadvertently did not follow its procurement policy. Cause and Effect: When the Center initially made the purchases, they did not follow the more stringent requirements imposed by Uniform Guidance. The Center did not follow its procurement policy and ultimately did not comply with the standard of the Uniform Grant Guidance. Identification of Repeat Finding: No Questioned Costs: None Recommendation: We recommend that when the Center decides to utilize cooperative purchasing programs or noncompetitive purchasing arrangements and use federal funds to pay for those purchases they ensure that they comply with their procurement policy. The Center should then document its process and how it complies with the procurement standards and keep such documentation with Federal Award budget/procurement documents. Management Response: The Center acknowledges this finding, and has since revised its procurement process to include the requisite items as required by the US DoE (ED) Uniform Grant Guidance (UGG) in its subsequent purchases with Federal Funds. It is also noted that most if not all of these purchases were made in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, and with delayed guidance from PA Department of Education’s Federal Programs Office. When alerted to the guidance, the Center implemented the proper procedures
Education Stabilization Fund - AL #84.425, Year Ended June 30, 2023 Career and Technical Education - AL #84.048, Year Ended June 30, 2023 U.S. Department of Education Pass-Through Entity - Pennsylvania Department of Education Criteria: The Uniform Guidance requires that non-federal entities must have and use documented procurement procedures consistent with laws and regulations and the standards for the acquisition of property or services under a federal award or subaward in accordance with 2 CFR 200.318. Furthermore, the non-federal entity is required to follow formal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for property or service under a federal financial assistance award exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold in accordance with 2 CFR 200.320. Condition: The Center did not follow the appropriate procedures to comply with Uniform Grant Guidance. During testing, it was noted that the Center made procurements through noncompetitive procurement arrangements. Consistent with 2 CFR § 200.320(c)(3), an LEA may determine that its response to the COVID-19 pandemic qualifies as a public exigency or emergency that does not permit the delay that would result from competitive bidding. Under these circumstances, and to the degree doing so is consistent with its own policies and procedures, the Center could use noncompetitive procurement. The Center should consult with the Pennsylvania Department of Education before using this authority. Subsequently, the Center paid for this purchase utilizing the Education Stabilization Fund and Career and Technical Education monies. In using federal funds to pay for these items, the Center inadvertently did not follow its procurement policy. Cause and Effect: When the Center initially made the purchases, they did not follow the more stringent requirements imposed by Uniform Guidance. The Center did not follow its procurement policy and ultimately did not comply with the standard of the Uniform Grant Guidance. Identification of Repeat Finding: No Questioned Costs: None Recommendation: We recommend that when the Center decides to utilize cooperative purchasing programs or noncompetitive purchasing arrangements and use federal funds to pay for those purchases they ensure that they comply with their procurement policy. The Center should then document its process and how it complies with the procurement standards and keep such documentation with Federal Award budget/procurement documents. Management Response: The Center acknowledges this finding, and has since revised its procurement process to include the requisite items as required by the US DoE (ED) Uniform Grant Guidance (UGG) in its subsequent purchases with Federal Funds. It is also noted that most if not all of these purchases were made in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, and with delayed guidance from PA Department of Education’s Federal Programs Office. When alerted to the guidance, the Center implemented the proper procedures
2 CFR § 400.1 gives regulatory effect for the U.S. Department of Agriculture to the OMB guidance in 2 CFR § 200. 2 CFR § 200.317 - 200.327 requires entities to use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable State and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable Federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. A non-Federal entity must: 1. Meet the general procurement standards in 2 CFR 200.318, which include oversight of contractors’ performance, maintaining written standards of conduct for employees involved in contracting, awarding contracts only to responsible contractors, and maintaining records to document history of procurements. 2. Conduct all procurement transactions in a manner providing full and open competition, in accordance with 2 CFR 200.319. 3. Use the micro-purchase and small purchase methods only for procurements that meet the applicable criteria under 2 CFR 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 non-Federal entity considers the price to be reasonable (2 CFR 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 200.320(b)). 4. For acquisitions exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold, the non-Federal entity must use one of the following procurement methods: the sealed bid method if the acquisition meets the criteria in 2 CFR 200.320(b); the competitive proposals method under the conditions specified in 2 CFR 200.320(b)(2); or the noncompetitive proposals method (i.e., solicit a proposal from only one source) but only when one or more of four circumstances are met, in accordance with 2 CFR 200.320(c). 5. Perform a cost or price analysis in connection with every procurement action in excess of the simplified acquisition threshold, including contract modifications (2 CFR 200.324(a)). The cost plus a percentage of cost and percentage of construction cost methods of contracting must not be used (2 CFR 200.324(d)). 6. Ensure that every purchase order or other contract includes applicable provisions required by 2 CFR 200.326. These provisions are described in Appendix II to 2 CFR Part 200, “Contract Provisions for Non-Federal Entity Contracts Under Federal Awards.” The School District paid more than $250,000 to Valley Wholesale during fiscal year 2023 for food products for the Child Nutrition Cluster. This amount exceeded the simplified acquisition threshold thus the District should follow a formal competitive procurement method described in 2 CFR 200.320(b). However, the School District did not follow a formal procurement method because they chose to use this local vendor (Valley Wholesale) to allow them to get their fresh produce in a timely manner to avoid food waste. The School District did not have the proper internal controls in place to ensure proper bidding procedures were followed. Failure to have the appropriate controls in place may result in vendors being used that are not providing the best possible prices. The School District should follow their established procurement policies and federal guidelines when choosing all vendors for the Child Nutrition Cluster.
2 CFR § 400.1 gives regulatory effect for the U.S. Department of Agriculture to the OMB guidance in 2 CFR § 200. 2 CFR § 200.317 - 200.327 requires entities to use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable State and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable Federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. A non-Federal entity must: 1. Meet the general procurement standards in 2 CFR 200.318, which include oversight of contractors’ performance, maintaining written standards of conduct for employees involved in contracting, awarding contracts only to responsible contractors, and maintaining records to document history of procurements. 2. Conduct all procurement transactions in a manner providing full and open competition, in accordance with 2 CFR 200.319. 3. Use the micro-purchase and small purchase methods only for procurements that meet the applicable criteria under 2 CFR 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 non-Federal entity considers the price to be reasonable (2 CFR 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 200.320(b)). 4. For acquisitions exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold, the non-Federal entity must use one of the following procurement methods: the sealed bid method if the acquisition meets the criteria in 2 CFR 200.320(b); the competitive proposals method under the conditions specified in 2 CFR 200.320(b)(2); or the noncompetitive proposals method (i.e., solicit a proposal from only one source) but only when one or more of four circumstances are met, in accordance with 2 CFR 200.320(c). 5. Perform a cost or price analysis in connection with every procurement action in excess of the simplified acquisition threshold, including contract modifications (2 CFR 200.324(a)). The cost plus a percentage of cost and percentage of construction cost methods of contracting must not be used (2 CFR 200.324(d)). 6. Ensure that every purchase order or other contract includes applicable provisions required by 2 CFR 200.326. These provisions are described in Appendix II to 2 CFR Part 200, “Contract Provisions for Non-Federal Entity Contracts Under Federal Awards.” The School District paid more than $250,000 to Valley Wholesale during fiscal year 2023 for food products for the Child Nutrition Cluster. This amount exceeded the simplified acquisition threshold thus the District should follow a formal competitive procurement method described in 2 CFR 200.320(b). However, the School District did not follow a formal procurement method because they chose to use this local vendor (Valley Wholesale) to allow them to get their fresh produce in a timely manner to avoid food waste. The School District did not have the proper internal controls in place to ensure proper bidding procedures were followed. Failure to have the appropriate controls in place may result in vendors being used that are not providing the best possible prices. The School District should follow their established procurement policies and federal guidelines when choosing all vendors for the Child Nutrition Cluster.