2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2023-003: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Federal Government Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Number: Various Federal Award Identification Number and Year: Multiple Award Period: July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 Type of Finding: • Other Matters • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: The Federal Government requires 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 2 CFR section 200.319 and 2 CFR section 200.320. In addition, per the Uniform Guidance CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Condition: The University did not have documentation for reasonings of why they did not obtain competitive bids. Context: During our testing we identified 2 of the 8 contracts tested did not include adequate documentation to award the contracts without a competitive bid process. Questioned costs: $27,287 Cause: A misunderstanding of the procurement process by grant personnel. Effect: Documentation for why the University did not obtain competitive bids was undocumented. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the University evaluate its procedures and implement an additional control to document reasons for obtaining competitive bids. Views of responsible officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
Finding 2023-001 Procurement Policy 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. A non-federal entity must: 1. Meet the general procurement standards in 2 CFR section 200.318, which include oversight of contractors’ performance, maintaining written standards of conduct for employees involved in contracting, awarding contracts only to responsible contractors, and maintaining records to document history of procurements. 2. Conduct all procurement transactions in a manner providing full and open competition, in accordance with 2 CFR section 200.319. 3. Use the micro-purchase and small purchase methods only for procurements that meet the applicable criteria under 2 CFR sections 200.320(a) and (b). Under the micro-purchase method, the aggregate dollar amount does not exceed $3,500 ($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. Micro-purchases may be awarded without soliciting competitive quotations if the non-federal entity considers the price to be reasonable (2 CFR section 200.320(a)). If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources (2 CFR section 200.320(b)). 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 section 200.320(c); the competitive proposals method under the conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320(d); or the noncompetitive proposals method (i.e., solicit a proposal from only one source) but only when one or more of four circumstances are met, in accordance with 2 CFR section 200.320(f). 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 section 200.323(a)). The cost plus a percentage of cost and percentage of construction cost methods of contracting must not be used (2 CFR section 200.323(d)). 6. Ensure that every purchase order or other contract includes applicable provisions required by 2 CFR section 200.326. These provisions are described in Appendix II to 2 CFR part 200, “Contract Provisions for Non- Federal Entity Contracts Under Federal Awards.” Non-federal entities had a grace period of two full fiscal years after the effective date of the Uniform Guidance before they had to comply with the procurement requirements of 2 CFR section 200. For a non-federal entity with a fiscal year-end of June 30, its effective date for the procurement requirements was July 1, 2017. However, during this grace period, non-federal entities were required to clearly document whether they decided to comply with the previous version of the applicable procurement standards or the new standards contained in the Uniform Guidance. Condition: The City has not updated its purchasing policies and procedures to bring it into compliance with the requirements of Uniform Guidance. The City has also not formally documented whether it has decided to extend its applicable date of compliance with 2 CFR part 200 to be effective beginning July 1, 2018. The City is not in compliance with the procurement policy provisions of 2 CFR part 200 and the Uniform Guidance. Not updating the City’s procurement policy could lead to future findings and questioned costs related to federal awards. The current audit did not identify noncompliance with direct and material compliance requirements of the major federal award program. The City has not updated its purchasing policies and procedures to bring it into compliance with the requirements of Uniform Guidance. The City has also not formally documented whether it has decided to extend its applicable date of compliance with 2 CFR part 200 to be effective beginning July 1, 2018. Context: See condition above for context of the finding. Cause: The City has not evaluated its existing procurement policies for compliance with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance. Effect: The City is not in compliance with the procurement policy provisions of 2 CFR part 200 and the Uniform Guidance. Not updating the City’s procurement policy could lead to future findings and questioned costs related to federal awards. The current audit did not identify noncompliance with direct and material compliance requirements of the major federal award program. Identification as a Repeat Finding: Yes. 2022-001. Recommendation: The City should evaluate and update existing purchasing policies and procedures in order to bring the City into compliance with the procurement policy requirements of 2 CFR part 200 and the Uniform Guidance. The updated policy should include, among other things: 1. Thresholds and appropriate approval procedures for allowable federal procurement methods. 2. Written standards for how conflicts of interest involving employees engaged to select, award, and administer contracts will be governed. 3. How to ensure that contracts and awards are made only to responsible and eligible contractors and how oversight of contractor performance will be monitored. 4. How records will be maintained in order to document the history of federal procurements. Views of Responsible Officials: The City is still in the process of working with an outside firm on a review of procurement and purchasing policies. The consultation includes compliance review of this standard. Expected completion – FYE 2024.
FINDING 2023-005 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 - National School Lunch Program Summer Food Service Program for Children Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2021-2022, FY2022-2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Repeat Finding This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005. Condition and Context The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls, which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the procurement of goods and the suspension and debarment of vendors. Procurement - Micro-Purchases Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying micro purchase procedures the School Corporation disclosed its process for micro-purchases, typically those purchases for $10,000 or under, was for the purchase to be reviewed by the Treasurer or Food Service Director to ensure proper procurement procedures were followed. The review was documented by initials or a signature on the claim. To verify the internal control was operating effectively four vendors that fell within the micro-purchase threshold were selected for testing. Two of the four vendors selected were not reviewed, as there was no documentation of initials or a signature on the corresponding claim. Procurement - Small Purchases When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications. Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000. However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the determination. Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying small purchase procedures the School Corporation disclosed it had two processes for ensuring proper procurement procedures were followed. There was one process for small purchases that required a contract and one process for small purchases that did not require a contract. For small purchases requiring a contract, the Food Service Director made the determination, which was then reviewed and approved by the School Board. Small purchases that did not require a contract were reviewed by the Treasurer or Food Service Director to ensure proper procurement procedures were followed. To verify the control was operating effectively five of the six vendors that fell within the small purchase threshold were selected for testing. Of the five tested, one contracted vendor and three noncontracted vendors did not have evidence of a review. Due to the lack of effective internal controls over small purchases, three of five small purchase vendors tested did not obtain the required price or rate quotes. In addition, documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not available for audit. Suspension and Debarment Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the SAMs exclusions, collecting a certification from that vendor, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that vendor. Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying that a vendor with which it plans to enter into a covered transaction is not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded, the School Corporation disclosed procedures included the School Board approving bids, which include a certification from the vendor. The one covered transaction identified was not approved by the School Board. As such the internal control was determined to not be properly implemented. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or class of supplies required." 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ." 2 CFR 200.318(a) states: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non- Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327." 2 CFR 200.318(i) states: "The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price." 2 CFR 200.320 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement . . . (2) Small purchases – (i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not implemented by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, procurement methods used were not properly documented. Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place to ensure compliance. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-005 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 - National School Lunch Program Summer Food Service Program for Children Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2021-2022, FY2022-2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Repeat Finding This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005. Condition and Context The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls, which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the procurement of goods and the suspension and debarment of vendors. Procurement - Micro-Purchases Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying micro purchase procedures the School Corporation disclosed its process for micro-purchases, typically those purchases for $10,000 or under, was for the purchase to be reviewed by the Treasurer or Food Service Director to ensure proper procurement procedures were followed. The review was documented by initials or a signature on the claim. To verify the internal control was operating effectively four vendors that fell within the micro-purchase threshold were selected for testing. Two of the four vendors selected were not reviewed, as there was no documentation of initials or a signature on the corresponding claim. Procurement - Small Purchases When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications. Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000. However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the determination. Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying small purchase procedures the School Corporation disclosed it had two processes for ensuring proper procurement procedures were followed. There was one process for small purchases that required a contract and one process for small purchases that did not require a contract. For small purchases requiring a contract, the Food Service Director made the determination, which was then reviewed and approved by the School Board. Small purchases that did not require a contract were reviewed by the Treasurer or Food Service Director to ensure proper procurement procedures were followed. To verify the control was operating effectively five of the six vendors that fell within the small purchase threshold were selected for testing. Of the five tested, one contracted vendor and three noncontracted vendors did not have evidence of a review. Due to the lack of effective internal controls over small purchases, three of five small purchase vendors tested did not obtain the required price or rate quotes. In addition, documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not available for audit. Suspension and Debarment Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the SAMs exclusions, collecting a certification from that vendor, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that vendor. Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying that a vendor with which it plans to enter into a covered transaction is not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded, the School Corporation disclosed procedures included the School Board approving bids, which include a certification from the vendor. The one covered transaction identified was not approved by the School Board. As such the internal control was determined to not be properly implemented. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or class of supplies required." 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ." 2 CFR 200.318(a) states: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non- Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327." 2 CFR 200.318(i) states: "The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price." 2 CFR 200.320 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement . . . (2) Small purchases – (i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not implemented by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, procurement methods used were not properly documented. Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place to ensure compliance. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-005 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 - National School Lunch Program Summer Food Service Program for Children Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2021-2022, FY2022-2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Repeat Finding This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005. Condition and Context The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls, which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the procurement of goods and the suspension and debarment of vendors. Procurement - Micro-Purchases Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying micro purchase procedures the School Corporation disclosed its process for micro-purchases, typically those purchases for $10,000 or under, was for the purchase to be reviewed by the Treasurer or Food Service Director to ensure proper procurement procedures were followed. The review was documented by initials or a signature on the claim. To verify the internal control was operating effectively four vendors that fell within the micro-purchase threshold were selected for testing. Two of the four vendors selected were not reviewed, as there was no documentation of initials or a signature on the corresponding claim. Procurement - Small Purchases When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications. Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000. However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the determination. Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying small purchase procedures the School Corporation disclosed it had two processes for ensuring proper procurement procedures were followed. There was one process for small purchases that required a contract and one process for small purchases that did not require a contract. For small purchases requiring a contract, the Food Service Director made the determination, which was then reviewed and approved by the School Board. Small purchases that did not require a contract were reviewed by the Treasurer or Food Service Director to ensure proper procurement procedures were followed. To verify the control was operating effectively five of the six vendors that fell within the small purchase threshold were selected for testing. Of the five tested, one contracted vendor and three noncontracted vendors did not have evidence of a review. Due to the lack of effective internal controls over small purchases, three of five small purchase vendors tested did not obtain the required price or rate quotes. In addition, documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not available for audit. Suspension and Debarment Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the SAMs exclusions, collecting a certification from that vendor, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that vendor. Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying that a vendor with which it plans to enter into a covered transaction is not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded, the School Corporation disclosed procedures included the School Board approving bids, which include a certification from the vendor. The one covered transaction identified was not approved by the School Board. As such the internal control was determined to not be properly implemented. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or class of supplies required." 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ." 2 CFR 200.318(a) states: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non- Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327." 2 CFR 200.318(i) states: "The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price." 2 CFR 200.320 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement . . . (2) Small purchases – (i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not implemented by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, procurement methods used were not properly documented. Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place to ensure compliance. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-005 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 - National School Lunch Program Summer Food Service Program for Children Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2021-2022, FY2022-2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Repeat Finding This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005. Condition and Context The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls, which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the procurement of goods and the suspension and debarment of vendors. Procurement - Micro-Purchases Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying micro purchase procedures the School Corporation disclosed its process for micro-purchases, typically those purchases for $10,000 or under, was for the purchase to be reviewed by the Treasurer or Food Service Director to ensure proper procurement procedures were followed. The review was documented by initials or a signature on the claim. To verify the internal control was operating effectively four vendors that fell within the micro-purchase threshold were selected for testing. Two of the four vendors selected were not reviewed, as there was no documentation of initials or a signature on the corresponding claim. Procurement - Small Purchases When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications. Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000. However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the determination. Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying small purchase procedures the School Corporation disclosed it had two processes for ensuring proper procurement procedures were followed. There was one process for small purchases that required a contract and one process for small purchases that did not require a contract. For small purchases requiring a contract, the Food Service Director made the determination, which was then reviewed and approved by the School Board. Small purchases that did not require a contract were reviewed by the Treasurer or Food Service Director to ensure proper procurement procedures were followed. To verify the control was operating effectively five of the six vendors that fell within the small purchase threshold were selected for testing. Of the five tested, one contracted vendor and three noncontracted vendors did not have evidence of a review. Due to the lack of effective internal controls over small purchases, three of five small purchase vendors tested did not obtain the required price or rate quotes. In addition, documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not available for audit. Suspension and Debarment Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the SAMs exclusions, collecting a certification from that vendor, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that vendor. Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying that a vendor with which it plans to enter into a covered transaction is not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded, the School Corporation disclosed procedures included the School Board approving bids, which include a certification from the vendor. The one covered transaction identified was not approved by the School Board. As such the internal control was determined to not be properly implemented. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or class of supplies required." 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ." 2 CFR 200.318(a) states: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non- Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327." 2 CFR 200.318(i) states: "The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price." 2 CFR 200.320 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement . . . (2) Small purchases – (i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not implemented by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, procurement methods used were not properly documented. Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place to ensure compliance. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-005 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 - National School Lunch Program Summer Food Service Program for Children Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2021-2022, FY2022-2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Repeat Finding This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005. Condition and Context The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls, which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the procurement of goods and the suspension and debarment of vendors. Procurement - Micro-Purchases Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying micro purchase procedures the School Corporation disclosed its process for micro-purchases, typically those purchases for $10,000 or under, was for the purchase to be reviewed by the Treasurer or Food Service Director to ensure proper procurement procedures were followed. The review was documented by initials or a signature on the claim. To verify the internal control was operating effectively four vendors that fell within the micro-purchase threshold were selected for testing. Two of the four vendors selected were not reviewed, as there was no documentation of initials or a signature on the corresponding claim. Procurement - Small Purchases When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications. Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000. However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the determination. Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying small purchase procedures the School Corporation disclosed it had two processes for ensuring proper procurement procedures were followed. There was one process for small purchases that required a contract and one process for small purchases that did not require a contract. For small purchases requiring a contract, the Food Service Director made the determination, which was then reviewed and approved by the School Board. Small purchases that did not require a contract were reviewed by the Treasurer or Food Service Director to ensure proper procurement procedures were followed. To verify the control was operating effectively five of the six vendors that fell within the small purchase threshold were selected for testing. Of the five tested, one contracted vendor and three noncontracted vendors did not have evidence of a review. Due to the lack of effective internal controls over small purchases, three of five small purchase vendors tested did not obtain the required price or rate quotes. In addition, documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not available for audit. Suspension and Debarment Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the SAMs exclusions, collecting a certification from that vendor, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that vendor. Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying that a vendor with which it plans to enter into a covered transaction is not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded, the School Corporation disclosed procedures included the School Board approving bids, which include a certification from the vendor. The one covered transaction identified was not approved by the School Board. As such the internal control was determined to not be properly implemented. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or class of supplies required." 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ." 2 CFR 200.318(a) states: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non- Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327." 2 CFR 200.318(i) states: "The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price." 2 CFR 200.320 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement . . . (2) Small purchases – (i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not implemented by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, procurement methods used were not properly documented. Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place to ensure compliance. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-005 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 - National School Lunch Program Summer Food Service Program for Children Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2021-2022, FY2022-2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Repeat Finding This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005. Condition and Context The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls, which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the procurement of goods and the suspension and debarment of vendors. Procurement - Micro-Purchases Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying micro purchase procedures the School Corporation disclosed its process for micro-purchases, typically those purchases for $10,000 or under, was for the purchase to be reviewed by the Treasurer or Food Service Director to ensure proper procurement procedures were followed. The review was documented by initials or a signature on the claim. To verify the internal control was operating effectively four vendors that fell within the micro-purchase threshold were selected for testing. Two of the four vendors selected were not reviewed, as there was no documentation of initials or a signature on the corresponding claim. Procurement - Small Purchases When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications. Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000. However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the determination. Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying small purchase procedures the School Corporation disclosed it had two processes for ensuring proper procurement procedures were followed. There was one process for small purchases that required a contract and one process for small purchases that did not require a contract. For small purchases requiring a contract, the Food Service Director made the determination, which was then reviewed and approved by the School Board. Small purchases that did not require a contract were reviewed by the Treasurer or Food Service Director to ensure proper procurement procedures were followed. To verify the control was operating effectively five of the six vendors that fell within the small purchase threshold were selected for testing. Of the five tested, one contracted vendor and three noncontracted vendors did not have evidence of a review. Due to the lack of effective internal controls over small purchases, three of five small purchase vendors tested did not obtain the required price or rate quotes. In addition, documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not available for audit. Suspension and Debarment Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the SAMs exclusions, collecting a certification from that vendor, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that vendor. Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying that a vendor with which it plans to enter into a covered transaction is not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded, the School Corporation disclosed procedures included the School Board approving bids, which include a certification from the vendor. The one covered transaction identified was not approved by the School Board. As such the internal control was determined to not be properly implemented. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or class of supplies required." 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ." 2 CFR 200.318(a) states: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non- Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327." 2 CFR 200.318(i) states: "The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price." 2 CFR 200.320 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement . . . (2) Small purchases – (i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not implemented by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, procurement methods used were not properly documented. Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place to ensure compliance. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2023-005 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, COVID-19 - National School Lunch Program Summer Food Service Program for Children Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2021-2022, FY2022-2023 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Repeat Finding This is a repeat finding from the prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2021-005. Condition and Context The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls, which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance related to the procurement of goods and the suspension and debarment of vendors. Procurement - Micro-Purchases Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying micro purchase procedures the School Corporation disclosed its process for micro-purchases, typically those purchases for $10,000 or under, was for the purchase to be reviewed by the Treasurer or Food Service Director to ensure proper procurement procedures were followed. The review was documented by initials or a signature on the claim. To verify the internal control was operating effectively four vendors that fell within the micro-purchase threshold were selected for testing. Two of the four vendors selected were not reviewed, as there was no documentation of initials or a signature on the corresponding claim. Procurement - Small Purchases When the value of goods or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, the proper purchasing method would be the bidding process, unless the purchase meets certain other qualifications. Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000. However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micropurchase threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the determination. Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying small purchase procedures the School Corporation disclosed it had two processes for ensuring proper procurement procedures were followed. There was one process for small purchases that required a contract and one process for small purchases that did not require a contract. For small purchases requiring a contract, the Food Service Director made the determination, which was then reviewed and approved by the School Board. Small purchases that did not require a contract were reviewed by the Treasurer or Food Service Director to ensure proper procurement procedures were followed. To verify the control was operating effectively five of the six vendors that fell within the small purchase threshold were selected for testing. Of the five tested, one contracted vendor and three noncontracted vendors did not have evidence of a review. Due to the lack of effective internal controls over small purchases, three of five small purchase vendors tested did not obtain the required price or rate quotes. In addition, documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was not available for audit. Suspension and Debarment Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the SAMs exclusions, collecting a certification from that vendor, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that vendor. Upon inquiry of the School Corporation in order to review the procedures in place for verifying that a vendor with which it plans to enter into a covered transaction is not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded, the School Corporation disclosed procedures included the School Board approving bids, which include a certification from the vendor. The one covered transaction identified was not approved by the School Board. As such the internal control was determined to not be properly implemented. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria Indiana Code 5-22-8-3(d) states: "If the purchasing agent receives a satisfactory quote, the purchasing agent shall award a contract to the lowest responsible and responsive offeror for each line or class of supplies required." 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ." 2 CFR 200.318(a) states: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non- Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327." 2 CFR 200.318(i) states: "The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price." 2 CFR 200.320 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement . . . (2) Small purchases – (i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not implemented by management of the School Corporation, which would include segregation of key functions. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, procurement methods used were not properly documented. Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation design and implement a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place to ensure compliance. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.