Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Criteria Procurement Non-federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow specific procurement standards set out in 2 CFR sections 200.317 through 200.327, which includes documenting the procurement methods used for vendor selection. These procedures are designed to ensure fair competition, cost-effectiveness, and federal requirements. These procurement standards require, among other provisions, that 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 reliable contractors, and maintaining records to document the history of procurement. 2. Conduct all procurement transactions for the acquisition of property or services under a federal award in a manner providing full and open competition consistent with the standards of 2 CFR section 200.320. 3. Use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of 2 CFR 200.317 to 320. 2 CFR 200.320 enumerates below the different procurement methods that a non-federal entity should use: a) The micro-purchase and small purchase methods only for procurements that meet the applicable criteria under 2 CFR sections 200.320(a) (1) and (2). Under the micro-purchase method, the aggregate dollar amount does not exceed $50,000. b) Small purchase procedures are used for purchases that exceed the micro-purchase amount but do not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. The non-Federal entity is responsible for determining an appropriate simplified acquisition threshold based on internal controls, an evaluation of risk and its documented procurement procedures which must not exceed the threshold established in the FAR. When applicable, a lower simplified acquisition threshold used by the non-Federal entity must be authorized or not prohibited under State, local, or tribal laws or regulations. c) 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(b) (1); the competitive proposals method under the conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320(b) (2); or the noncompetitive proposals method (i.e., solicit a proposal from only one source) but only when one or more of four circumstances are met, in accordance with 2 CFR section 200.320(c)). 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(b)). 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.” Suspension and Debarment Non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred. “Covered transactions” include contracts for goods and services awarded under a non-procurement transaction (e.g., grant or cooperative agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000 or meet certain other criteria as specified in 2 CFR section 180.220. All non-procurement transactions entered into by a pass-through entity (i.e., subawards to subrecipients), irrespective of award amount, are considered covered transactions, unless they are exempt as provided in 2 CFR section 180.215. When a non-federal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the non-federal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. This verification may be accomplished by (1) checking the System for Award Management (SAM) Exclusions maintained by the General Services Administration (GSA) and available at SAM.gov Home (click on Search Record, then click on Advanced Search-Exclusions) (Note: The OMB guidance at 2 CFR Part 180 and agency implementing regulations still refer to the SAM Exclusions as the Excluded Parties List System (EPLS)), (2) collecting a certification from the entity, or (3) adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that entity (2 CFR section 180.300). Condition During our audit, MARTA was unable to provide purchase order documentation or contract for eight samples that are above $500. Per current procurement policy, “Purchases of supplies, services, and equipment costing more than five hundred ($500) shall be made by purchase order, unless authorized by a signed contract or Mountain Transit Board Approval”. During our audit, MARTA was unable to provide supporting documentation to demonstrate that the required price or rate quotations for those purchases or contracts with contract amounts above $10,000 were obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources and maintained the documentation to support its conclusion. These were noted for two samples tested. The expenditure paid ranged from $10,000 to $36,000 in 2024. During our audit, MARTA was unable to provide supporting documentation to demonstrate that the process of verifying if vendors are not suspended or debarred was performed on two vendors tested. The expenditure paid to these vendors ranged from $109,000 to $647,000 in 2024. Cause MARTA did not follow its existing purchasing policy and procedures, and lack of procedures in maintaining appropriate records of vendor selection and compliance with procurement standards. Effect The absence of procurement documentation raises the risk of non-compliance with federal regulations, which could lead to potential disallowances or unnecessary sanctions. Questioned Costs None Recommendation MARTA should strengthen its internal controls over procurement by ensuring that all procurement activities, particularly significant expenditures, are properly documented. This includes retaining evidence that procurement methods required by the Uniform Guidance were followed, such as bids, contracts, or justifications for sole-source vendors. MARTA should also conduct training for staff involved in procurement to ensure awareness and adherence to the policies. Regular internal audits may be implemented to verify compliance with procurement procedures. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action MARTA is in the process of updating the Procurement Policy. MARTA will ensure that updated policies and procedures will be implemented to address compliance and documentation requirements for small and micro-purchases, sole-source, and informal processes. The updated Procurement Policy will be brought to the October 2025 Board of Directors meeting for Board review or approval. Personnel responsible: Sandy Benson, General Manager Anticipated completion date: October 2025
Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Criteria Procurement Non-federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow specific procurement standards set out in 2 CFR sections 200.317 through 200.327, which includes documenting the procurement methods used for vendor selection. These procedures are designed to ensure fair competition, cost-effectiveness, and federal requirements. These procurement standards require, among other provisions, that 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 reliable contractors, and maintaining records to document the history of procurement. 2. Conduct all procurement transactions for the acquisition of property or services under a federal award in a manner providing full and open competition consistent with the standards of 2 CFR section 200.320. 3. Use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of 2 CFR 200.317 to 320. 2 CFR 200.320 enumerates below the different procurement methods that a non-federal entity should use: a) The micro-purchase and small purchase methods only for procurements that meet the applicable criteria under 2 CFR sections 200.320(a) (1) and (2). Under the micro-purchase method, the aggregate dollar amount does not exceed $50,000. b) Small purchase procedures are used for purchases that exceed the micro-purchase amount but do not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. The non-Federal entity is responsible for determining an appropriate simplified acquisition threshold based on internal controls, an evaluation of risk and its documented procurement procedures which must not exceed the threshold established in the FAR. When applicable, a lower simplified acquisition threshold used by the non-Federal entity must be authorized or not prohibited under State, local, or tribal laws or regulations. c) 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(b) (1); the competitive proposals method under the conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320(b) (2); or the noncompetitive proposals method (i.e., solicit a proposal from only one source) but only when one or more of four circumstances are met, in accordance with 2 CFR section 200.320(c)). 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(b)). 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.” Suspension and Debarment Non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred. “Covered transactions” include contracts for goods and services awarded under a non-procurement transaction (e.g., grant or cooperative agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000 or meet certain other criteria as specified in 2 CFR section 180.220. All non-procurement transactions entered into by a pass-through entity (i.e., subawards to subrecipients), irrespective of award amount, are considered covered transactions, unless they are exempt as provided in 2 CFR section 180.215. When a non-federal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the non-federal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. This verification may be accomplished by (1) checking the System for Award Management (SAM) Exclusions maintained by the General Services Administration (GSA) and available at SAM.gov Home (click on Search Record, then click on Advanced Search-Exclusions) (Note: The OMB guidance at 2 CFR Part 180 and agency implementing regulations still refer to the SAM Exclusions as the Excluded Parties List System (EPLS)), (2) collecting a certification from the entity, or (3) adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that entity (2 CFR section 180.300). Condition During our audit, MARTA was unable to provide purchase order documentation or contract for eight samples that are above $500. Per current procurement policy, “Purchases of supplies, services, and equipment costing more than five hundred ($500) shall be made by purchase order, unless authorized by a signed contract or Mountain Transit Board Approval”. During our audit, MARTA was unable to provide supporting documentation to demonstrate that the required price or rate quotations for those purchases or contracts with contract amounts above $10,000 were obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources and maintained the documentation to support its conclusion. These were noted for two samples tested. The expenditure paid ranged from $10,000 to $36,000 in 2024. During our audit, MARTA was unable to provide supporting documentation to demonstrate that the process of verifying if vendors are not suspended or debarred was performed on two vendors tested. The expenditure paid to these vendors ranged from $109,000 to $647,000 in 2024. Cause MARTA did not follow its existing purchasing policy and procedures, and lack of procedures in maintaining appropriate records of vendor selection and compliance with procurement standards. Effect The absence of procurement documentation raises the risk of non-compliance with federal regulations, which could lead to potential disallowances or unnecessary sanctions. Questioned Costs None Recommendation MARTA should strengthen its internal controls over procurement by ensuring that all procurement activities, particularly significant expenditures, are properly documented. This includes retaining evidence that procurement methods required by the Uniform Guidance were followed, such as bids, contracts, or justifications for sole-source vendors. MARTA should also conduct training for staff involved in procurement to ensure awareness and adherence to the policies. Regular internal audits may be implemented to verify compliance with procurement procedures. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action MARTA is in the process of updating the Procurement Policy. MARTA will ensure that updated policies and procedures will be implemented to address compliance and documentation requirements for small and micro-purchases, sole-source, and informal processes. The updated Procurement Policy will be brought to the October 2025 Board of Directors meeting for Board review or approval. Personnel responsible: Sandy Benson, General Manager Anticipated completion date: October 2025
2024 – 002 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Justice Federal Program Title: Crime Victim Assistance Federal Assistance Listing Number: 16.575 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: 15POVC23GG00443ASSI-2024 Pass-Through Agency: Minnesota Office of Justice Programs Pass-Through Number(s): A-CVS-2024-AMS-077 Award Period: 10/01/2023 to 09/30/2025 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Major Federal Programs and Other Matters Criteria or Specific Requirement: Nonfederal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Condition: The Organization did not have a written procurement policy in accordance with Uniform Guidance for a portion of the year. In addition, during our testing, we noted the Organization did not apply the proper procurement procedures for two vendors as they did not perform appropriate procedures nor retain adequate documentation in accordance with Uniform Guidance. Questioned Costs: Unknown Context: Two out of the two procurement selections did not have procurement procedures followed. Cause: Vendors were procured prior to the implementation of a formal procurement policy; therefore, proper documentation was not retained as of the procurement date. Effect: Potential effect of noncompliance with Uniform Guidance when procuring goods and services for expenditures over federal awards. Repeat Finding: This is a repeat finding. Recommendation: The Organization should continue to apply its current procurement policy to new and existing vendors to ensure proper documentation is retained in accordance with said procurement policy and SA UG. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The Organization will apply its current procurement policy to new and existing vendors in order to comply with applicable procurement requirements.
Condition: The Organization’s written policies and procedures related to financial management and procurement do not meet the requirements of 2 CFR 200, Subpart D and Subpart E. Criteria: According to 2 CFR Section 200.302.b and 2 CFR Section 200.305 of the Uniform Guidance, the Organization is required to have a written financial management policy. Additionally, according to 2 CFR Section 200.317 – 200.326, the Organization is required to have a written procurement policy. Cause: The Organization was unaware of requirements regarding policies and procedures outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Effect: Written policies necessary for non-Federal entities receiving federal funds were not in place. Repeat Finding: Yes Questioned Costs: None reported Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization update their written policies and procedures that meet the requirements of the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action: We concur with the auditor’s finding and will update the Organization’s written policies and procedures for the Uniform Guidance requirements.
Condition: The Organization did not have documentation related to the suspension and debarment testing performed on vendors. Criteria: According to 2 CFR Section 200.318 and 2 CFR Section 200.326 of the Uniform Guidance, non-federal entities other than states must follow procurement standards when operating federal programs and the procurement procedures required depend on the amount of the transaction. Cause: The Organization was in the process of implementing the draft procurement policy as of June 30, 2024. The policy is properly designed and follows the Uniform Guidance. However, the policy was not implemented during the period under audit. Effect: There was an increased risk that the Organization was contracting and awarding contracts to suspended or debarred vendors.. Repeat Finding: No Questioned Costs: None reported Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization implement a process to perform suspension and debarment testing as required by their procurement policy, and that as part of this process they maintain adequate supporting documentation and records to document suspension and debarment and the procedures performed to comply with the applicable CFR sections. This could include the use of standard forms and templates for suspension and debarment testing. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action: We concur with the auditor’s finding and will develop an updated procurement policy that includes maintaining adequate supporting documentation and records regarding suspension and debarment procedures performed.
Condition: The Organization’s written policies and procedures related to financial management and procurement do not meet the requirements of 2 CFR 200, Subpart D and Subpart E. Criteria: According to 2 CFR Section 200.302.b and 2 CFR Section 200.305 of the Uniform Guidance, the Organization is required to have a written financial management policy. Additionally, according to 2 CFR Section 200.317 – 200.326, the Organization is required to have a written procurement policy. Cause: The Organization was unaware of requirements regarding policies and procedures outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Effect: Written policies necessary for non-Federal entities receiving federal funds were not in place. Repeat Finding: Yes Questioned Costs: None reported Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization update their written policies and procedures that meet the requirements of the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action: We concur with the auditor’s finding and will update the Organization’s written policies and procedures for the Uniform Guidance requirements.
Condition: The Organization did not have documentation related to the suspension and debarment testing performed on vendors. Criteria: According to 2 CFR Section 200.318 and 2 CFR Section 200.326 of the Uniform Guidance, non-federal entities other than states must follow procurement standards when operating federal programs and the procurement procedures required depend on the amount of the transaction. Cause: The Organization was in the process of implementing the draft procurement policy as of June 30, 2024. The policy is properly designed and follows the Uniform Guidance. However, the policy was not implemented during the period under audit. Effect: There was an increased risk that the Organization was contracting and awarding contracts to suspended or debarred vendors.. Repeat Finding: No Questioned Costs: None reported Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization implement a process to perform suspension and debarment testing as required by their procurement policy, and that as part of this process they maintain adequate supporting documentation and records to document suspension and debarment and the procedures performed to comply with the applicable CFR sections. This could include the use of standard forms and templates for suspension and debarment testing. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action: We concur with the auditor’s finding and will develop an updated procurement policy that includes maintaining adequate supporting documentation and records regarding suspension and debarment procedures performed.
2 CFR § 3474.1 gives regulatory effect to the Department of Education for 2 CFR part 200 of the Uniform Guidance. 2 CFR §§ 200.318 through 200.326 of the Uniform Guidance outline procurement requirements for all non-payroll direct expenditures. Entities expending federal monies are required to follow Uniform Guidance procurement standards. 2 CFR 200.318(i) states that the non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. The School District considered the contracts with Educational Service Centers to be noncompetitive procurements; however, the School District was unable to provide documentation that they met the criteria established in 2 CFR 200.320(c) to be considered as such. Due to a lack of internal controls over federal procurement documentation, the District did not properly maintain required supporting documentation. Failure to follow federal procurement standards, may result in the misuse of public funds, loss of "low risk auditee" status, increased audit expenses, loss of future federal awards, findings for recovery or other audit adjustments. The School District should review and follow the established Procurement policy to ensure proper procurement procedures are followed and sufficiently documented.
2 CFR § 3474.1 gives regulatory effect to the Department of Education for 2 CFR part 200 of the Uniform Guidance. 2 CFR §§ 200.318 through 200.326 of the Uniform Guidance outline procurement requirements for all non-payroll direct expenditures. Entities expending federal monies are required to follow Uniform Guidance procurement standards. 2 CFR 200.318(i) states that the non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. The School District considered the contracts with Educational Service Centers to be noncompetitive procurements; however, the School District was unable to provide documentation that they met the criteria established in 2 CFR 200.320(c) to be considered as such. Due to a lack of internal controls over federal procurement documentation, the District did not properly maintain required supporting documentation. Failure to follow federal procurement standards, may result in the misuse of public funds, loss of "low risk auditee" status, increased audit expenses, loss of future federal awards, findings for recovery or other audit adjustments. The School District should review and follow the established Procurement policy to ensure proper procurement procedures are followed and sufficiently documented.
2 CFR § 3474.1 gives regulatory effect to the Department of Education for 2 CFR part 200 of the Uniform Guidance. 2 CFR §§ 200.318 through 200.326 of the Uniform Guidance outline procurement requirements for all non-payroll direct expenditures. Entities expending federal monies are required to follow Uniform Guidance procurement standards. 2 CFR 200.318(i) states that the non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. The School District considered the contracts with Educational Service Centers to be noncompetitive procurements; however, the School District was unable to provide documentation that they met the criteria established in 2 CFR 200.320(c) to be considered as such. Due to a lack of internal controls over federal procurement documentation, the District did not properly maintain required supporting documentation. Failure to follow federal procurement standards, may result in the misuse of public funds, loss of "low risk auditee" status, increased audit expenses, loss of future federal awards, findings for recovery or other audit adjustments. The School District should review and follow the established Procurement policy to ensure proper procurement procedures are followed and sufficiently documented.
2024-003 Wage Rate Compliance CFDA Title: Education Stabilization Fund CFDA Number: 84.425 Federal Award Number and Year: 2021 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Pass-through Entity: Montana Office of Public Instruction Condition: The District did not comply with the wage rate compliance related to construction using Education Stabilization Fund (ESSER) Grant monies. Context: During the testing of significant claims for the ESSER major programs related to construction, we noted claims in which there should be contracts in place and that the wage rate requirements would apply. Criteria: Section 7007 construction funds, as well as any Section 7002 or 7003(b) funds spent for construction or minor remodeling, are subject to Wage Rate Requirements (20 USC 1232b). Compliance Requirement – All laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors to work on construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by Federal assistance funds must be paid wages not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of Labor (DOL) (40 USC 3141-3144, 3146, and 3147). Non-federal entities shall include in their construction contracts subject to the Wage Rate Requirements (which still may be referenced as the Davis-Bacon Act) a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with those requirements and the DOL regulations (29 CFR part 5, Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contacts Governing Federally Financed and Assisted Construction). This includes a requirement for the contractor or subcontractor to submit to the non-Federal entity weekly, for each week in which any contract work is performed, a copy of the payroll and a statement of compliance (certified payrolls) (29 CFR sections 5.5 and 5.6; the A-102 Common Rule (section 36(i)(5)); OMB Circular A-110 (2 CFR part 215, Appendix A, Contract Provisions); 2 CFR part 176, subpart C; and 2 CFR section 200.326). Effect: Noncompliance with the Wage Rate Requirement for construction paid for out of the ESSER Grants. Cause: The District was not aware of the requirement. Recommendation: The District should implement internal controls to determine the federal compliance requirements of all federal funds received. In addition, procedures should be implemented to ensure any federal funds received in which the Wage Rate Requirement is required the following are implemented: 1. Any construction vendor is by contract, and that contract includes the Prevailing Wage clauses for the contractors and subcontractors. 2. The weekly certified payrolls are submitted to the District.
2024-003 Wage Rate Compliance CFDA Title: Education Stabilization Fund CFDA Number: 84.425 Federal Award Number and Year: 2021 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Pass-through Entity: Montana Office of Public Instruction Condition: The District did not comply with the wage rate compliance related to construction using Education Stabilization Fund (ESSER) Grant monies. Context: During the testing of significant claims for the ESSER major programs related to construction, we noted claims in which there should be contracts in place and that the wage rate requirements would apply. Criteria: Section 7007 construction funds, as well as any Section 7002 or 7003(b) funds spent for construction or minor remodeling, are subject to Wage Rate Requirements (20 USC 1232b). Compliance Requirement – All laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors to work on construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by Federal assistance funds must be paid wages not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of Labor (DOL) (40 USC 3141-3144, 3146, and 3147). Non-federal entities shall include in their construction contracts subject to the Wage Rate Requirements (which still may be referenced as the Davis-Bacon Act) a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with those requirements and the DOL regulations (29 CFR part 5, Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contacts Governing Federally Financed and Assisted Construction). This includes a requirement for the contractor or subcontractor to submit to the non-Federal entity weekly, for each week in which any contract work is performed, a copy of the payroll and a statement of compliance (certified payrolls) (29 CFR sections 5.5 and 5.6; the A-102 Common Rule (section 36(i)(5)); OMB Circular A-110 (2 CFR part 215, Appendix A, Contract Provisions); 2 CFR part 176, subpart C; and 2 CFR section 200.326). Effect: Noncompliance with the Wage Rate Requirement for construction paid for out of the ESSER Grants. Cause: The District was not aware of the requirement. Recommendation: The District should implement internal controls to determine the federal compliance requirements of all federal funds received. In addition, procedures should be implemented to ensure any federal funds received in which the Wage Rate Requirement is required the following are implemented: 1. Any construction vendor is by contract, and that contract includes the Prevailing Wage clauses for the contractors and subcontractors. 2. The weekly certified payrolls are submitted to the District.
2024-003 Wage Rate Compliance CFDA Title: Education Stabilization Fund CFDA Number: 84.425 Federal Award Number and Year: 2021 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Pass-through Entity: Montana Office of Public Instruction Condition: The District did not comply with the wage rate compliance related to construction using Education Stabilization Fund (ESSER) Grant monies. Context: During the testing of significant claims for the ESSER major programs related to construction, we noted claims in which there should be contracts in place and that the wage rate requirements would apply. Criteria: Section 7007 construction funds, as well as any Section 7002 or 7003(b) funds spent for construction or minor remodeling, are subject to Wage Rate Requirements (20 USC 1232b). Compliance Requirement – All laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors to work on construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by Federal assistance funds must be paid wages not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of Labor (DOL) (40 USC 3141-3144, 3146, and 3147). Non-federal entities shall include in their construction contracts subject to the Wage Rate Requirements (which still may be referenced as the Davis-Bacon Act) a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with those requirements and the DOL regulations (29 CFR part 5, Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contacts Governing Federally Financed and Assisted Construction). This includes a requirement for the contractor or subcontractor to submit to the non-Federal entity weekly, for each week in which any contract work is performed, a copy of the payroll and a statement of compliance (certified payrolls) (29 CFR sections 5.5 and 5.6; the A-102 Common Rule (section 36(i)(5)); OMB Circular A-110 (2 CFR part 215, Appendix A, Contract Provisions); 2 CFR part 176, subpart C; and 2 CFR section 200.326). Effect: Noncompliance with the Wage Rate Requirement for construction paid for out of the ESSER Grants. Cause: The District was not aware of the requirement. Recommendation: The District should implement internal controls to determine the federal compliance requirements of all federal funds received. In addition, procedures should be implemented to ensure any federal funds received in which the Wage Rate Requirement is required the following are implemented: 1. Any construction vendor is by contract, and that contract includes the Prevailing Wage clauses for the contractors and subcontractors. 2. The weekly certified payrolls are submitted to the District.
2024-003 Wage Rate Compliance CFDA Title: Education Stabilization Fund CFDA Number: 84.425 Federal Award Number and Year: 2021 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Pass-through Entity: Montana Office of Public Instruction Condition: The District did not comply with the wage rate compliance related to construction using Education Stabilization Fund (ESSER) Grant monies. Context: During the testing of significant claims for the ESSER major programs related to construction, we noted claims in which there should be contracts in place and that the wage rate requirements would apply. Criteria: Section 7007 construction funds, as well as any Section 7002 or 7003(b) funds spent for construction or minor remodeling, are subject to Wage Rate Requirements (20 USC 1232b). Compliance Requirement – All laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors to work on construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by Federal assistance funds must be paid wages not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of Labor (DOL) (40 USC 3141-3144, 3146, and 3147). Non-federal entities shall include in their construction contracts subject to the Wage Rate Requirements (which still may be referenced as the Davis-Bacon Act) a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with those requirements and the DOL regulations (29 CFR part 5, Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contacts Governing Federally Financed and Assisted Construction). This includes a requirement for the contractor or subcontractor to submit to the non-Federal entity weekly, for each week in which any contract work is performed, a copy of the payroll and a statement of compliance (certified payrolls) (29 CFR sections 5.5 and 5.6; the A-102 Common Rule (section 36(i)(5)); OMB Circular A-110 (2 CFR part 215, Appendix A, Contract Provisions); 2 CFR part 176, subpart C; and 2 CFR section 200.326). Effect: Noncompliance with the Wage Rate Requirement for construction paid for out of the ESSER Grants. Cause: The District was not aware of the requirement. Recommendation: The District should implement internal controls to determine the federal compliance requirements of all federal funds received. In addition, procedures should be implemented to ensure any federal funds received in which the Wage Rate Requirement is required the following are implemented: 1. Any construction vendor is by contract, and that contract includes the Prevailing Wage clauses for the contractors and subcontractors. 2. The weekly certified payrolls are submitted to the District.
Finding 2024-001 – COVID 19 – Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund - AL No. 21.027 U.S. Department of Treasury Other Matters Related to Internal Control over Compliance of the Major Program Criteria: Non‐federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Condition and Context: During our testing as it related to compliance with procurement we noted that an expense for engineering services for the Waste Water Treatment Assessment services charged to the major program would have required a formal bidding process as the project exceeded the simplified acquisition threshold. The Town had selected the engineering company for “On Call” engineering services as it related to the DPW through a request for qualifications process. The contract does include as part of the services to be provided Waste Water Treatment Assessment services. However, the contract is not specific to federally funded projects. The Town of Medfield had submitted the request for qualifications documentation as well as the executed contracted for “On Call” services to both the Town’s consulting service and the pass through entity for approval of the Waste Water Treatment Assessment. The pass through entity and the pass through entities Auditors did not have any concerns with the request for qualifications as it relates to the Waste Water Treatment Assessment project. Questioned Costs: $40,500 Cause: Based on the judgement of the pass through entity (Norfolk County) and their auditors, the Town was approved to procure engineering services for the Waste Water Treatment Assessment as part of a larger “On Call” services contract. The Town did select the contractor through a competitive request for qualifications process, but did not initiate a separate procurement for the sub-project. Effect or Potential Effect: There is risk that amounts charged to the federal awards major program may not be in accordance with procurement, suspension, and debarment principles. Identification as a Repeat Finding: N/A Recommendation: Going forward, the Town of Medfield should consider a separate bidding process for expenses related to federal grant funds. Management Response: Due to the differences in the interpretation of federal requirements regarding competitive procurement, the Town will follow the more restrictive one on an ongoing basis. New projects paid for by federal grants will have separate procurements.
2024-004 Procurement Federal Agency: All Federal Agencies - US Department of Transportation Federal Program Name: All Federal Programs Assistance Listing Number: All Assistance Listing Numbers - 20.205 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: N/A – applies to all Federal Programs Pass-Through Agency: N/A Pass-Through Number(s): N/A Award Period: N/A Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Other Matter Criteria: 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (UG) requires compliance with the provisions of procurement, suspension, and debarment. Condition: The Town’s procurement standards do not include the essential elements as outlined in 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. Effect: With the absence of a compliant policy, the Town is at risk for noncompliance as it relates to federal procurement. Cause: The Town was unaware that the policy was not compliant with Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend that the Town review its formal procurement policies and make necessary changes to comply with the criteria as set out in 2 CFR sections 200.318 and 200.326. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with this finding.
Finding No. 2024-004 Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Department of the Treasury Federal Program Name: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Assistance Listing Number: 21.027 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: SLFRFP4547 – 2021 Award Period: 3/3/21 – 12/31/24 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or Specific Requirement: The Town must comply with procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.303 and 200.318 through 200.326 within Uniform Guidance. Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), a non-Federal entity must: Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). UG §200.318 General procurement standards. (i) The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. §200.320 states that the non-Federal entity must use one of the prescribed methods of procurement. (a) Informal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or services under a Federal award does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT), as defined in §200.1, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal procurement methods are not required. The non-Federal entity may use informal procurement methods to expedite the completion of its transactions and minimize the associated administrative burden and cost. The informal methods used for procurement of property or services at or below the SAT include: (1) Micro-purchases. Procurement by micro-purchase is the acquisition of supplies or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which does not exceed the micro-purchase threshold (See the definition of micro-purchase in §200.1). To the maximum extent practicable, the non-Federal entity should distribute micro-purchases equitably among qualified suppliers. Micro-purchases may be awarded without soliciting competitive price or rate quotations if the non-Federal entity considers the price to be reasonable based on research, experience, purchase history or other information and documents it files accordingly. Purchase cards can be used for micropurchases if procedures are documented and approved by the non-Federal entity. (2) Small purchase. Procurement by small purchase is the acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. (b) Formal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or services under a Federal financial assistance award exceeds the SAT, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal procurement methods are required. Formal procurement methods require following documented procedures. Formal procurement methods also require public advertising unless a noncompetitive procurement can be used in accordance with §200.319 or paragraph (c) of this section. The following formal methods of procurement are used for procurement of property or services above the simplified acquisition threshold or a value below the simplified acquisition threshold the non-Federal entity determines to be appropriate: (1) Sealed bids. Bids are publicly solicited, and a firm fixed-price contract (lump sum or unit price) is awarded to the responsible bidder whose bid, conforming with all the material terms and conditions of the invitation for bids, is the lowest in price. (2) Proposals. Either a fixed price or cost-reimbursement type contract is awarded. Proposals are generally used when conditions are not appropriate for the use of sealed bids. (c) Noncompetitive procurement. There are specific circumstances in which noncompetitive procurement can be used. Noncompetitive procurement can only be awarded if one or more of the allowed circumstances apply. Condition: The Town purchasing policy does not include all elements as outlined in 2 CFR sections 200.303 and 200.318 through 200.326 noted above. Questioned Costs: None Context: Although the Town’s purchasing policies do not include all elements as outlined in 2 CFR sections 200.303 and 200.318 through 200.326, we did not identify transactions where contracts were awarded without proper justification in 7 of 7 procurement transactions tested. Cause: Management was not aware of the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.303 and 200.318 through 200.326 within Uniform Guidance. Effect: The Town is at risk for noncompliance with Federal grants as it relates to procurement. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend that the Town update its procurement policies to include all elements identified in 2 CFR sections 200.303 and 200.318 through 200.326. Views of Responsible Officials: Management is working with our current auditors to update the Town’s procurement policies to be in compliance with the Uniform Guidance.
2024-001 PROCUREMENT, SUSPENSION AND DEBARMENT Grantor: U. S. Department of the Treasury Federal Program Name: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds CFDA Number: 21.027 Pass-through Entities: CT Department of Social Services CT Department of Children and Families CT Office of Early Childhood CT Office of Victim Services Criteria: When procuring property and services, entities must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318-200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The procurement policy in place during fiscal 2024 had not been updated to comply with the requirement of the Uniform Guidance as stated above, and did not specify a micro-purchase or small purchase threshold above which written quotes would be required. A formal written policy for ensuring vendors are not suspended or debarred was not included in the existing policy and therefore this process was not being executed in a consistent manner. Questioned Costs: None. Effect: Certain purchases could be incurred at higher amounts than might have been the case had multiple written quotes been obtained prior to the transaction. However, all purchases tested appeared to be in the normal course of business and costs appeared reasonable. Our testing did not result in any questioned costs. Additionally, the potential existed that a vendor that could either be suspended or debarred could have unknowingly been utilized due to the existing process. Cause: The agency did not timely complete the process to update its policies and procedures to conform with the Uniform Guidance by the expiration of the extended implementation deadline cited in the Uniform Guidance. A new policy was implemented subsequent to year-end. Recommendation: Additional training of relevant staff regarding the new policies and procedures should be considered, especially regarding retention of adequate documentation of bids, quotes, or other procedures including documentation of the checking of vendors against the suspension and debarment lists. Views of Responsible Officials: A new procurement policy, including a process to ensure vendors are not suspended or debarred, was prepared and implemented effective in January 2025. Relevant staff have been and continue to be trained appropriately regarding execution of related procedures to ensure all aspects are being properly performed.
2024-001 PROCUREMENT, SUSPENSION AND DEBARMENT Grantor: U. S. Department of the Treasury Federal Program Name: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds CFDA Number: 21.027 Pass-through Entities: CT Department of Social Services CT Department of Children and Families CT Office of Early Childhood CT Office of Victim Services Criteria: When procuring property and services, entities must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318-200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The procurement policy in place during fiscal 2024 had not been updated to comply with the requirement of the Uniform Guidance as stated above, and did not specify a micro-purchase or small purchase threshold above which written quotes would be required. A formal written policy for ensuring vendors are not suspended or debarred was not included in the existing policy and therefore this process was not being executed in a consistent manner. Questioned Costs: None. Effect: Certain purchases could be incurred at higher amounts than might have been the case had multiple written quotes been obtained prior to the transaction. However, all purchases tested appeared to be in the normal course of business and costs appeared reasonable. Our testing did not result in any questioned costs. Additionally, the potential existed that a vendor that could either be suspended or debarred could have unknowingly been utilized due to the existing process. Cause: The agency did not timely complete the process to update its policies and procedures to conform with the Uniform Guidance by the expiration of the extended implementation deadline cited in the Uniform Guidance. A new policy was implemented subsequent to year-end. Recommendation: Additional training of relevant staff regarding the new policies and procedures should be considered, especially regarding retention of adequate documentation of bids, quotes, or other procedures including documentation of the checking of vendors against the suspension and debarment lists. Views of Responsible Officials: A new procurement policy, including a process to ensure vendors are not suspended or debarred, was prepared and implemented effective in January 2025. Relevant staff have been and continue to be trained appropriately regarding execution of related procedures to ensure all aspects are being properly performed.
2024-001 PROCUREMENT, SUSPENSION AND DEBARMENT Grantor: U. S. Department of the Treasury Federal Program Name: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds CFDA Number: 21.027 Pass-through Entities: CT Department of Social Services CT Department of Children and Families CT Office of Early Childhood CT Office of Victim Services Criteria: When procuring property and services, entities must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318-200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The procurement policy in place during fiscal 2024 had not been updated to comply with the requirement of the Uniform Guidance as stated above, and did not specify a micro-purchase or small purchase threshold above which written quotes would be required. A formal written policy for ensuring vendors are not suspended or debarred was not included in the existing policy and therefore this process was not being executed in a consistent manner. Questioned Costs: None. Effect: Certain purchases could be incurred at higher amounts than might have been the case had multiple written quotes been obtained prior to the transaction. However, all purchases tested appeared to be in the normal course of business and costs appeared reasonable. Our testing did not result in any questioned costs. Additionally, the potential existed that a vendor that could either be suspended or debarred could have unknowingly been utilized due to the existing process. Cause: The agency did not timely complete the process to update its policies and procedures to conform with the Uniform Guidance by the expiration of the extended implementation deadline cited in the Uniform Guidance. A new policy was implemented subsequent to year-end. Recommendation: Additional training of relevant staff regarding the new policies and procedures should be considered, especially regarding retention of adequate documentation of bids, quotes, or other procedures including documentation of the checking of vendors against the suspension and debarment lists. Views of Responsible Officials: A new procurement policy, including a process to ensure vendors are not suspended or debarred, was prepared and implemented effective in January 2025. Relevant staff have been and continue to be trained appropriately regarding execution of related procedures to ensure all aspects are being properly performed.
2024-001 PROCUREMENT, SUSPENSION AND DEBARMENT Grantor: U. S. Department of the Treasury Federal Program Name: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds CFDA Number: 21.027 Pass-through Entities: CT Department of Social Services CT Department of Children and Families CT Office of Early Childhood CT Office of Victim Services Criteria: When procuring property and services, entities must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318-200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The procurement policy in place during fiscal 2024 had not been updated to comply with the requirement of the Uniform Guidance as stated above, and did not specify a micro-purchase or small purchase threshold above which written quotes would be required. A formal written policy for ensuring vendors are not suspended or debarred was not included in the existing policy and therefore this process was not being executed in a consistent manner. Questioned Costs: None. Effect: Certain purchases could be incurred at higher amounts than might have been the case had multiple written quotes been obtained prior to the transaction. However, all purchases tested appeared to be in the normal course of business and costs appeared reasonable. Our testing did not result in any questioned costs. Additionally, the potential existed that a vendor that could either be suspended or debarred could have unknowingly been utilized due to the existing process. Cause: The agency did not timely complete the process to update its policies and procedures to conform with the Uniform Guidance by the expiration of the extended implementation deadline cited in the Uniform Guidance. A new policy was implemented subsequent to year-end. Recommendation: Additional training of relevant staff regarding the new policies and procedures should be considered, especially regarding retention of adequate documentation of bids, quotes, or other procedures including documentation of the checking of vendors against the suspension and debarment lists. Views of Responsible Officials: A new procurement policy, including a process to ensure vendors are not suspended or debarred, was prepared and implemented effective in January 2025. Relevant staff have been and continue to be trained appropriately regarding execution of related procedures to ensure all aspects are being properly performed.
2024-001 PROCUREMENT, SUSPENSION AND DEBARMENT Grantor: U. S. Department of the Treasury Federal Program Name: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds CFDA Number: 21.027 Pass-through Entities: CT Department of Social Services CT Department of Children and Families CT Office of Early Childhood CT Office of Victim Services Criteria: When procuring property and services, entities must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318-200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The procurement policy in place during fiscal 2024 had not been updated to comply with the requirement of the Uniform Guidance as stated above, and did not specify a micro-purchase or small purchase threshold above which written quotes would be required. A formal written policy for ensuring vendors are not suspended or debarred was not included in the existing policy and therefore this process was not being executed in a consistent manner. Questioned Costs: None. Effect: Certain purchases could be incurred at higher amounts than might have been the case had multiple written quotes been obtained prior to the transaction. However, all purchases tested appeared to be in the normal course of business and costs appeared reasonable. Our testing did not result in any questioned costs. Additionally, the potential existed that a vendor that could either be suspended or debarred could have unknowingly been utilized due to the existing process. Cause: The agency did not timely complete the process to update its policies and procedures to conform with the Uniform Guidance by the expiration of the extended implementation deadline cited in the Uniform Guidance. A new policy was implemented subsequent to year-end. Recommendation: Additional training of relevant staff regarding the new policies and procedures should be considered, especially regarding retention of adequate documentation of bids, quotes, or other procedures including documentation of the checking of vendors against the suspension and debarment lists. Views of Responsible Officials: A new procurement policy, including a process to ensure vendors are not suspended or debarred, was prepared and implemented effective in January 2025. Relevant staff have been and continue to be trained appropriately regarding execution of related procedures to ensure all aspects are being properly performed.
2024 – 009 Special Tests and Provisions – Wage Rate Federal Agency: Department of Interior Federal Program Title: Outdoor Recreation Acquisition, Development and Planning ALN: 15.916 Pass-Through Agency: Arizona State Park Trails Pass-Through Number(s): 04-007-652304 Award Number and Period: 04/18/2022-12/31/24 Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a statistically valid sample Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or specific requirement: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the City of Nogales (City) must establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that it 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 the “Internal Control Integrated Framework” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Per 40 USC 3141–3144, 3146, and 3147 All laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors to work on construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must be paid wages not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of Labor (DOL). Per 29 CFR Part 5, Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contacts Governing Federally Financed and Assisted Construction: Nonfederal entities shall include in their construction contracts subject to the Wage Rate Requirements (which still may be referenced as the Davis-Bacon Act) a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with those requirements and the DOL regulations. This includes a requirement for the contractor or subcontractor to submit to the nonfederal entity weekly, for each week in which any contract work is performed, a copy of the payroll and a statement of compliance (certified payrolls) (29 CFR sections 5.5 and 5.6; the A-102 Common Rule (section 36(i)(5)); OMB Circular A-110 (2 CFR Part 215, Appendix A, Contract Provisions); 2 CFR Part 176, Subpart C; and 2 CFR section 200.326). Condition: There was no support provided for the three out of three contractor vendors with construction work noted on their purchase orders. Questioned costs: None. Context: See “Condition.” Cause: Current process and controls are not at the correct precision level to ensure special provisions regarding the Wage Rate compliances are being met. Effect: Ineffective internal controls may result in questioned costs and noncompliance with the terms of the grant award. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: The City of Nogales should refine its current process and associated controls surrounding the requirements in 40 USC 3141–3144, 3146, and 3147 to ensure they are met. Views of responsible officials: See corrective action plan. Corrective action plan: See corrective action plan.
2024-003 – Written Policies Required by the Uniform Grant Guidance Finding Type. Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Immaterial Noncompliance (Procurement and Suspension and Debarment) Program. COVID-19 State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Cluster (CFDA# 21.027); U.S. Department of Treasury; Passed through Lake County. Criteria. Non-federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Condition. The District did not have documented procurement standards to comply with 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. Cause. The District has drafted a policy for these areas in accordance with 2 CFR Part 200, but it has not been finalized. Effect. As a result of this condition, the District did not fully comply with 2 CFR Part 200 applicable to the above noted grant. Questioned Costs. No costs have been questioned as a result of this finding. Recommendation. We recommend that the District develop a policy as soon as practical, but no later than the end of fiscal year 2025, to comply with 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. View of Responsible Officials. We agree with the recommendation and will develop procedures to comply with the Uniform Guidance applicable to grants Repeat finding. 2023-003
The procurement policy and conflict of interest policy of the Organization do not include the essential elements as outlined in 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326.
The procurement policy and conflict of interest policy of the Organization do not include the essential elements as outlined in 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326.
The procurement policy and conflict of interest policy of the Organization do not include the essential elements as outlined in 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326.
The procurement policy and conflict of interest policy of the Organization do not include the essential elements as outlined in 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326.
The procurement policy and conflict of interest policy of the Organization do not include the essential elements as outlined in 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326.
Written Procurement Policy This finding impacts the procurement and suspension and debarment compliance requirement for the major program, Assistance Listing Number 84.282, Charter Schools, funded by U.S. Department of Education, passed through the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Criteria: The School must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR Sections 200.318 through 200.326. The School also must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable State and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable Federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Condition: During our compliance testing, we reviewed the School's procurement policy against Uniform Guidance standards. The policy did not meet all of the considerations that are required through Federal, Uniform Guidance, and state regulations. The School followed their procurement policy during fiscal year 2024, but should update this policy in accordance with these regulations Context: Compliance with the Uniform Guidance. Cause: The School’s existing procurement policy was not updated to include all of the elements required by the Uniform Guidance. Effect: Non-compliance with the Uniform Guidance, potentially resulting in a decrease in Federal funding and allow for purchases that are not completed under the approved procurement standards. Questioned Costs: No questioned costs identified. Was the finding a repeat of a finding in the immediately prior year?: No Recommendation: AAFCPAs recommends that management revise their policy to comply with current standards under the Uniform Guidance. Management’s Response: The current School policy was adopted at opening based on DESE recommended Fiscal Policy and Procedures. Given the analysis of the current policy as compared to the Uniform Guidance policy, the School policy will be updated to ensure compliance going forward. This policy will be reviewed by the Finance Committee and then brought to the full Board for approval no later than January 2025.
2024-001 – Uniform Guidance Procurement Standards Criteria: One of the more significant provisions of the Uniform Guidance that affects the Trust is the procurement standards under 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. Under the procurement standards, the Trust is required to have a documented purchasing policy, which at a minimum, incorporates the provisions of the Uniform Guidance. Statement of Condition: The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) revised regulations applicable to federally funded programs. The new regulations are contained in Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance). The Uniform Guidance replaced OMB Circulars A-133, A-87, and A-110 and incorporates new requirements for grant recipients. The Uniform Guidance includes not only protocols for program management and administration, but also updates compliance regulations for federal awards. Currently, the Trust does not have a formal written procurement policy that incorporates all provisions of the Uniform Guidance procurement standards. Cause: The Trust has not adopted a procurement policy that covers all aspects required by the Uniform Guidance. However, during our testing of procurement over federal expenditures, we did not notate any violations of the Uniform Guidance procurement standards. Effect: Items required by the Uniform Guidance procurement standards that are not currently addressed in the Trust’s procurement policy are as follows: • Contracting with small and minority businesses, women’s business enterprises, and labor surplus area firms • Bonding requirements • Contract provisions • Subrecipient and contractor determinations • Retention requirements for records Recommendation: We recommend that management review the applicable provisions of the Uniform Guidance procurement standards and update the Trust’s procurement policy appropriately. This would include adding any missing components to the Trust’s current procurement policy and updating definitions of types of procurement, i.e., micro-purchases, small purchases, and small acquisition threshold, to match the language used in the Uniform Guidance procurement standards.
2024-001 – Uniform Guidance Procurement Standards Criteria: One of the more significant provisions of the Uniform Guidance that affects the Trust is the procurement standards under 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. Under the procurement standards, the Trust is required to have a documented purchasing policy, which at a minimum, incorporates the provisions of the Uniform Guidance. Statement of Condition: The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) revised regulations applicable to federally funded programs. The new regulations are contained in Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance). The Uniform Guidance replaced OMB Circulars A-133, A-87, and A-110 and incorporates new requirements for grant recipients. The Uniform Guidance includes not only protocols for program management and administration, but also updates compliance regulations for federal awards. Currently, the Trust does not have a formal written procurement policy that incorporates all provisions of the Uniform Guidance procurement standards. Cause: The Trust has not adopted a procurement policy that covers all aspects required by the Uniform Guidance. However, during our testing of procurement over federal expenditures, we did not notate any violations of the Uniform Guidance procurement standards. Effect: Items required by the Uniform Guidance procurement standards that are not currently addressed in the Trust’s procurement policy are as follows: • Contracting with small and minority businesses, women’s business enterprises, and labor surplus area firms • Bonding requirements • Contract provisions • Subrecipient and contractor determinations • Retention requirements for records Recommendation: We recommend that management review the applicable provisions of the Uniform Guidance procurement standards and update the Trust’s procurement policy appropriately. This would include adding any missing components to the Trust’s current procurement policy and updating definitions of types of procurement, i.e., micro-purchases, small purchases, and small acquisition threshold, to match the language used in the Uniform Guidance procurement standards.
2024-001 – Uniform Guidance Procurement Standards Criteria: One of the more significant provisions of the Uniform Guidance that affects the Trust is the procurement standards under 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. Under the procurement standards, the Trust is required to have a documented purchasing policy, which at a minimum, incorporates the provisions of the Uniform Guidance. Statement of Condition: The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) revised regulations applicable to federally funded programs. The new regulations are contained in Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance). The Uniform Guidance replaced OMB Circulars A-133, A-87, and A-110 and incorporates new requirements for grant recipients. The Uniform Guidance includes not only protocols for program management and administration, but also updates compliance regulations for federal awards. Currently, the Trust does not have a formal written procurement policy that incorporates all provisions of the Uniform Guidance procurement standards. Cause: The Trust has not adopted a procurement policy that covers all aspects required by the Uniform Guidance. However, during our testing of procurement over federal expenditures, we did not notate any violations of the Uniform Guidance procurement standards. Effect: Items required by the Uniform Guidance procurement standards that are not currently addressed in the Trust’s procurement policy are as follows: • Contracting with small and minority businesses, women’s business enterprises, and labor surplus area firms • Bonding requirements • Contract provisions • Subrecipient and contractor determinations • Retention requirements for records Recommendation: We recommend that management review the applicable provisions of the Uniform Guidance procurement standards and update the Trust’s procurement policy appropriately. This would include adding any missing components to the Trust’s current procurement policy and updating definitions of types of procurement, i.e., micro-purchases, small purchases, and small acquisition threshold, to match the language used in the Uniform Guidance procurement standards.
2024-001 – Uniform Guidance Procurement Standards Criteria: One of the more significant provisions of the Uniform Guidance that affects the Trust is the procurement standards under 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. Under the procurement standards, the Trust is required to have a documented purchasing policy, which at a minimum, incorporates the provisions of the Uniform Guidance. Statement of Condition: The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) revised regulations applicable to federally funded programs. The new regulations are contained in Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance). The Uniform Guidance replaced OMB Circulars A-133, A-87, and A-110 and incorporates new requirements for grant recipients. The Uniform Guidance includes not only protocols for program management and administration, but also updates compliance regulations for federal awards. Currently, the Trust does not have a formal written procurement policy that incorporates all provisions of the Uniform Guidance procurement standards. Cause: The Trust has not adopted a procurement policy that covers all aspects required by the Uniform Guidance. However, during our testing of procurement over federal expenditures, we did not notate any violations of the Uniform Guidance procurement standards. Effect: Items required by the Uniform Guidance procurement standards that are not currently addressed in the Trust’s procurement policy are as follows: • Contracting with small and minority businesses, women’s business enterprises, and labor surplus area firms • Bonding requirements • Contract provisions • Subrecipient and contractor determinations • Retention requirements for records Recommendation: We recommend that management review the applicable provisions of the Uniform Guidance procurement standards and update the Trust’s procurement policy appropriately. This would include adding any missing components to the Trust’s current procurement policy and updating definitions of types of procurement, i.e., micro-purchases, small purchases, and small acquisition threshold, to match the language used in the Uniform Guidance procurement standards.
Finding Type: Significant deficiency in internal controls over major programs and noncompliance with laws and regulations. Program Impacted: Education Stabilization Fund; ARP ESSER III (84.425U) Condition: All required payrolls were not submitted by contractors or subcontractors for work performed by laborers on projects funded, in part, by the Education Stabilization Fund grant. Criteria: All laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors to work on construction contracts in excess of $2,000, financed by federal assistance funds, must be paid wages no less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of Labor (40 USC 3141-3144, 3146, and 3147). The reporting for this includes a requirement for the contractor or subcontractor to submit to the nonfederal entity weekly, for each week in which work is performed, a copy of the payroll and statement of compliance (certified payrolls) (2 CFR Part 176, Subpart C; and 2 CFR section 200.326). Cause: The District did not maintain effective internal controls over the review of certified payrolls to ensure that prevailing wages were paid to mechanics and other laborers working on the contract. Effect: The District is unable to verify compliance with prevailing wage rate requirements for projects funded under the grant. Context: We evaluated 3 vendors as part of our review of wage rate requirements and noted the following: *For 1 of the 3 vendors reviewed, certified payrolls were not submitted to the District. Questioned Costs: $0, program funding associated with construction was used for supplies and materials only. Such costs were budgeted for, and approved by, the grantor agency. Recommendation: The District should implement internal controls that include review of certified payrolls for all construction projects funded by federal grant dollars. District’s Response: The District agrees with the finding and will develop internal control procedures necessary to correct the condition.
U.S. Department of Education passed through Utah State Board of Education 2024-001 Special Tests and Provisions – Wage Rate Requirements Education Stabilization Fund: COVID-19 American Rescue Plan – Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (84.425U) Criteria: All laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors to work on construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must be paid wages not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of Labor (DOL) (40 USC 3141-3144, 3146, and 3147). Nonfederal entities shall include in their construction contracts subject to the Wage Rate Requirements a provision that the contractor or subcontractor comply with those requirements and the DOL regulations (29 CFR Part 5, Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Governing Federally Financed and Assisted Construction). This includes a requirement for the contractor of subcontractor to submit to the nonfederal entity weekly, for each week in which any contract work is performed, a copy of the payroll and a statement of compliance (certified payrolls) (29 CFR sections 5.5 and 5.6; the A-102 Common Rule (section 36(i)(5)); OMB Circular A-110 (2 CFR Part 215 Appendix A, Contract Provisions; 2 CFR Part 176 Subpart C; and 2 CFR section 200.326). Context and Condition: We reviewed the District’s construction contracts that were financed by the Education Stabilization Fund during the year ended June 30, 2024 and performed testing over internal controls and compliance as related to the Wage Rate Requirements as outlined in the criteria above. Cause: The District did not have processes or controls established to ensure certified payrolls for each week in which contract work was performed were obtained from subcontractors for one of two construction contracts financed by the Education Stabilization Fund until after the construction contract was completed. Effect: A potential failure to pay laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors prevailing wage rates as required by the Wage Rate Requirements exists. Questioned Costs: No costs were questionable Repeat finding: No Statistically valid: Yes Recommendation: We recommend management of the District review processes related to construction projects subject to the Wage Rate Requirements and establish appropriate internal controls to ensure all wage rate requirements are met. Views of responsible officials: Management of the District has reviewed the processes and internal controls related to construction contracts and have implemented changes to ensure that the Wage Rate Requirements are adhered to, when applicable.
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Program Name: Child Nutrition Cluster Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: 24UT311N1099 - 2024 Pass-Through Agency: Colorado Department of Education Pass-Through Numbers: 4553, 4555, 4559, 6555 Award Period: July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or specific requirement: Non-federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. This procurement process must be documented with proper supporting documentation. Condition: We noted that the District does have policies and procedures in place for compliance with procurement requirements. However, we noted one out of eight vendors did not have an updated sole source justification form on file covering the current fiscal year. Questioned costs: None Context: One vendor, out of a sample of eight, did not have an updated sole source justification form covering the current fiscal year. Cause: The District’s approval of sole source justification forms is typically valid for the life of the business with the vendor, but this one instance had an expiration date on the approval of the vendor as a sole source that ended prior to the current fiscal year. An updated sole source justification from was not completed after the expiration of the previous approval. Effect: Failure to document the procurement process exposes the District to the risk that the District’s procurement policy was not followed before the contracts were awarded. Repeat Finding: NoRecommendation: We recommend the District review their controls and procedures surrounding procurement to ensure their purchasing policy is followed. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Program Name: Child Nutrition Cluster Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: 24UT311N1099 - 2024 Pass-Through Agency: Colorado Department of Education Pass-Through Numbers: 4553, 4555, 4559, 6555 Award Period: July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or specific requirement: Non-federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. This procurement process must be documented with proper supporting documentation. Condition: We noted that the District does have policies and procedures in place for compliance with procurement requirements. However, we noted one out of eight vendors did not have an updated sole source justification form on file covering the current fiscal year. Questioned costs: None Context: One vendor, out of a sample of eight, did not have an updated sole source justification form covering the current fiscal year. Cause: The District’s approval of sole source justification forms is typically valid for the life of the business with the vendor, but this one instance had an expiration date on the approval of the vendor as a sole source that ended prior to the current fiscal year. An updated sole source justification from was not completed after the expiration of the previous approval. Effect: Failure to document the procurement process exposes the District to the risk that the District’s procurement policy was not followed before the contracts were awarded. Repeat Finding: NoRecommendation: We recommend the District review their controls and procedures surrounding procurement to ensure their purchasing policy is followed. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Program Name: Child Nutrition Cluster Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: 24UT311N1099 - 2024 Pass-Through Agency: Colorado Department of Education Pass-Through Numbers: 4553, 4555, 4559, 6555 Award Period: July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or specific requirement: Non-federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. This procurement process must be documented with proper supporting documentation. Condition: We noted that the District does have policies and procedures in place for compliance with procurement requirements. However, we noted one out of eight vendors did not have an updated sole source justification form on file covering the current fiscal year. Questioned costs: None Context: One vendor, out of a sample of eight, did not have an updated sole source justification form covering the current fiscal year. Cause: The District’s approval of sole source justification forms is typically valid for the life of the business with the vendor, but this one instance had an expiration date on the approval of the vendor as a sole source that ended prior to the current fiscal year. An updated sole source justification from was not completed after the expiration of the previous approval. Effect: Failure to document the procurement process exposes the District to the risk that the District’s procurement policy was not followed before the contracts were awarded. Repeat Finding: NoRecommendation: We recommend the District review their controls and procedures surrounding procurement to ensure their purchasing policy is followed. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Program Name: Child Nutrition Cluster Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: 24UT311N1099 - 2024 Pass-Through Agency: Colorado Department of Education Pass-Through Numbers: 4553, 4555, 4559, 6555 Award Period: July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or specific requirement: Non-federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. This procurement process must be documented with proper supporting documentation. Condition: We noted that the District does have policies and procedures in place for compliance with procurement requirements. However, we noted one out of eight vendors did not have an updated sole source justification form on file covering the current fiscal year. Questioned costs: None Context: One vendor, out of a sample of eight, did not have an updated sole source justification form covering the current fiscal year. Cause: The District’s approval of sole source justification forms is typically valid for the life of the business with the vendor, but this one instance had an expiration date on the approval of the vendor as a sole source that ended prior to the current fiscal year. An updated sole source justification from was not completed after the expiration of the previous approval. Effect: Failure to document the procurement process exposes the District to the risk that the District’s procurement policy was not followed before the contracts were awarded. Repeat Finding: NoRecommendation: We recommend the District review their controls and procedures surrounding procurement to ensure their purchasing policy is followed. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Program Name: Child Nutrition Cluster Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: 24UT311N1099 - 2024 Pass-Through Agency: Colorado Department of Education Pass-Through Numbers: 4553, 4555, 4559, 6555 Award Period: July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or specific requirement: Non-federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. This procurement process must be documented with proper supporting documentation. Condition: We noted that the District does have policies and procedures in place for compliance with procurement requirements. However, we noted one out of eight vendors did not have an updated sole source justification form on file covering the current fiscal year. Questioned costs: None Context: One vendor, out of a sample of eight, did not have an updated sole source justification form covering the current fiscal year. Cause: The District’s approval of sole source justification forms is typically valid for the life of the business with the vendor, but this one instance had an expiration date on the approval of the vendor as a sole source that ended prior to the current fiscal year. An updated sole source justification from was not completed after the expiration of the previous approval. Effect: Failure to document the procurement process exposes the District to the risk that the District’s procurement policy was not followed before the contracts were awarded. Repeat Finding: NoRecommendation: We recommend the District review their controls and procedures surrounding procurement to ensure their purchasing policy is followed. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Finding 2024-003: Material Weakness – Controls and Compliance over Special Tests and Provisions Program: COVID-19 Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listing Number: 84.425U Pass-Through Agency: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Criteria: All laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors to work on construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must be paid wages not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of Labor (DOL) (40 USC 3141–3144, 3146, and 3147). This includes a requirement for the contractor or subcontractor to submit to the nonfederal entity weekly, for each week in which any contract work is performed, a copy of the payroll and a statement of compliance (certified payrolls) (29 CFR sections 5.5 and 5.6; the A-102 Common Rule (section 36(i)(5)); OMB Circular A-110 (2 CFR Part 215, Appendix A, Contract Provisions); 2 CFR Part 176, Subpart C; and 2 CFR section 200.326). Condition/Context: Certified payrolls were not obtained or reviewed by the District. Program expenditures for fiscal 2024 included one construction contract. Cause: The District was not aware of this specific requirement. Effect: Federal funds may be paid to a contractor or subcontractor that pays wages less than the prevailing wage rates. Questioned Costs: None noted. Recommendation: We recommend that the District implement a process to obtain certified payrolls when using federal funds on construction contracts. Once the certified payrolls are obtained, the District should review them as outlined by the applicable federal regulations and retain documentation of their conclusion. Views of responsible officials: The District will implement a process to obtain, review and retain certified payrolls if ever using federal funds on future construction contracts in excess of $2,000. The District has since received and reviewed the certified payrolls and determined the contractor is in compliance.
Finding 2024-003: Material Weakness – Controls and Compliance over Special Tests and Provisions Program: COVID-19 Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listing Number: 84.425U Pass-Through Agency: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Criteria: All laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors to work on construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must be paid wages not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of Labor (DOL) (40 USC 3141–3144, 3146, and 3147). This includes a requirement for the contractor or subcontractor to submit to the nonfederal entity weekly, for each week in which any contract work is performed, a copy of the payroll and a statement of compliance (certified payrolls) (29 CFR sections 5.5 and 5.6; the A-102 Common Rule (section 36(i)(5)); OMB Circular A-110 (2 CFR Part 215, Appendix A, Contract Provisions); 2 CFR Part 176, Subpart C; and 2 CFR section 200.326). Condition/Context: Certified payrolls were not obtained or reviewed by the District. Program expenditures for fiscal 2024 included one construction contract. Cause: The District was not aware of this specific requirement. Effect: Federal funds may be paid to a contractor or subcontractor that pays wages less than the prevailing wage rates. Questioned Costs: None noted. Recommendation: We recommend that the District implement a process to obtain certified payrolls when using federal funds on construction contracts. Once the certified payrolls are obtained, the District should review them as outlined by the applicable federal regulations and retain documentation of their conclusion. Views of responsible officials: The District will implement a process to obtain, review and retain certified payrolls if ever using federal funds on future construction contracts in excess of $2,000. The District has since received and reviewed the certified payrolls and determined the contractor is in compliance.
U.S. Department of Education passed through State of Utah Board of Education 2024-001 Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Program Name of Federal Program (Assistance Listing Number): Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Projects of Regional and National Significance (93.243) Criteria: Recipients of federal awards must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR section 200.317 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable State laws and regulations, provided that the procedures conform to applicable Federal law and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Recipients “must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price” 2 CFR section 200.318(i). The District’s procurement procedures include the requirement to maintain sufficient documentation of the history of procurement. The District also has procedures to identify procurement transactions requiring competitive bids or proposals. Context and Condition: We selected six contracts to test for compliance with procurement standards. Records for four contracts lacked documentation sufficient to detail procurement history. Cause: The District did not follow its documentation policy for obtaining contracts or bids. Effect: A potential failure to conduct procurement transactions in a manner providing full and open competition exists. Questioned Costs: No costs were questionable Recommendation: We recommend the District ensure it 1) maintains documentation of the history of procurement and 2) monitors compliance with documentation requirements. Views of responsible officials: The District will review its procurement policies and internal controls and ensure timely action is taken when noncompliance is identified.
Finding 2024-003: Material Weakness - Internal Control and Compliance Over Special Tests and Provisions Program: COVID-19: Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listing Number: 84.425 Pass-Through Agency: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Criteria: All laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors to work on construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must be paid wages not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of Labor (DOL) (40 USC 3141–3144, 3146 and 3147. Nonfederal entities shall include in their construction contracts subject to the Wage Rate Requirements a provision that the contractor comply with those requirements and the DOL regulations (29 CFR Part 5, Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contacts Governing Federally Financed and Assisted Construction). This includes a requirement for the contractor or subcontractor to submit to the nonfederal entity weekly, for each week in which any contract work is performed, a copy of the payroll and a statement of compliance (certified payrolls) (29 CFR sections 5.5 and 5.6; the A-102 Common Rule (section 36(i)(5)); OMB Circular A-110 (2 CFR Part 215, Appendix A, Contract Provisions); 2 CFR Part 176, Subpart C; and 2 CFR section 200.326). Condition/Context: The District did not enter into a contract with the primary contractor for the HVAC construction project paid for with federal assistance funds, nor did the District verify that prevailing wage rate requirements were included in subcontracts. Additionally, the District does not have controls in place to track weekly certified payrolls. Cause: The District did not have controls in place to ensure federal requirements were met in the process for selecting contractors and monitoring subcontractors. The District also does not have a process in place to track the weekly certified payrolls. Effect: Federal Funds may be paid to a contractor that does not follow prevailing wage laws. Questioned Costs: Not determinable. Recommendation: We recommend the District implement a system for procurement procedures to ensure contacts are obtained and include the required prevailing wage rate requirements. This should also include monitoring all subcontractors to ensure they meet these requirements. We also recommend the District implement a system to track weekly certified payrolls to ensure all payrolls are received. Views of Responsible Officials: The District is in the process of developing a procurement policy, including prevailing wage rate requirements and will ensure that subcontractors meet the requirements.
Finding 2024-003: Material Weakness - Internal Control and Compliance Over Special Tests and Provisions Program: COVID-19: Education Stabilization Fund Assistance Listing Number: 84.425 Pass-Through Agency: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Criteria: All laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors to work on construction contracts in excess of $2,000 financed by federal assistance funds must be paid wages not less than those established for the locality of the project (prevailing wage rates) by the Department of Labor (DOL) (40 USC 3141–3144, 3146 and 3147. Nonfederal entities shall include in their construction contracts subject to the Wage Rate Requirements a provision that the contractor comply with those requirements and the DOL regulations (29 CFR Part 5, Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contacts Governing Federally Financed and Assisted Construction). This includes a requirement for the contractor or subcontractor to submit to the nonfederal entity weekly, for each week in which any contract work is performed, a copy of the payroll and a statement of compliance (certified payrolls) (29 CFR sections 5.5 and 5.6; the A-102 Common Rule (section 36(i)(5)); OMB Circular A-110 (2 CFR Part 215, Appendix A, Contract Provisions); 2 CFR Part 176, Subpart C; and 2 CFR section 200.326). Condition/Context: The District did not enter into a contract with the primary contractor for the HVAC construction project paid for with federal assistance funds, nor did the District verify that prevailing wage rate requirements were included in subcontracts. Additionally, the District does not have controls in place to track weekly certified payrolls. Cause: The District did not have controls in place to ensure federal requirements were met in the process for selecting contractors and monitoring subcontractors. The District also does not have a process in place to track the weekly certified payrolls. Effect: Federal Funds may be paid to a contractor that does not follow prevailing wage laws. Questioned Costs: Not determinable. Recommendation: We recommend the District implement a system for procurement procedures to ensure contacts are obtained and include the required prevailing wage rate requirements. This should also include monitoring all subcontractors to ensure they meet these requirements. We also recommend the District implement a system to track weekly certified payrolls to ensure all payrolls are received. Views of Responsible Officials: The District is in the process of developing a procurement policy, including prevailing wage rate requirements and will ensure that subcontractors meet the requirements.
Finding Number: 2024‐001 Repeat Finding: No Program Name/Assistance Listing Title: COVID‐19 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund Assistance Listing Number: 21.027 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Treasury Federal Award Number: 404‐23, CT‐BH‐22‐208, 422939 Pass‐Through Agency: Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence, Pima County, City of Tucson Questioned Costs: N/A Type of Finding: Noncompliance, Significant Deficiency Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment 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 §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. Additionally, non‐federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred. When a non‐federal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the non‐federal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR §180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. This verification may be accomplished by checking the System of Award Management (SAM) maintained by the General Services Administration (GSA), collecting a certification from the entity, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that entity (2 CFR §180.300). Condition Adequate internal controls over procurement procedures to ensure compliance with Uniform Guidance regulations and guidelines were not in place. Verification of suspension and debarment was not performed for one vendor with whom Emerge Center Against Domestic Abuse (Emerge) spent at least $25,000 of federal grant monies. In addition, Emerge's procurement policy does not include the requirement for performing a suspension or debarment verification check on vendors procured with federal funds. Cause Emerge’s internal controls over procurement of goods and services were not adequate. Effect Emerge was not in compliance with the Uniform Guidance regulations and guidelines related to suspension and debarment. However, it was subsequently determined that the vendor utilized was not suspended or debarred. Context During our review of procurement, we noted that Emerge does not have a policy or procedure in place that requires a verification check of suspension and debarment for covered transactions. For one vendor with whom purchases exceeded $25,000, Emerge did not perform a verification check. Audit procedures determined the vendor was not suspended or debarred. The sample was not intended to be, and was not, a statistically valid sample. Recommendation Management should develop and implement policies and procedures over procurement to ensure compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements under 2 CFR §180.300 and §200.318 through 326. Views of Responsible Officials See Corrective Action Plan.
Finding Number: 2024‐001 Repeat Finding: No Program Name/Assistance Listing Title: COVID‐19 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund Assistance Listing Number: 21.027 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Treasury Federal Award Number: 404‐23, CT‐BH‐22‐208, 422939 Pass‐Through Agency: Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence, Pima County, City of Tucson Questioned Costs: N/A Type of Finding: Noncompliance, Significant Deficiency Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment 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 §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. Additionally, non‐federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred. When a non‐federal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the non‐federal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR §180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. This verification may be accomplished by checking the System of Award Management (SAM) maintained by the General Services Administration (GSA), collecting a certification from the entity, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that entity (2 CFR §180.300). Condition Adequate internal controls over procurement procedures to ensure compliance with Uniform Guidance regulations and guidelines were not in place. Verification of suspension and debarment was not performed for one vendor with whom Emerge Center Against Domestic Abuse (Emerge) spent at least $25,000 of federal grant monies. In addition, Emerge's procurement policy does not include the requirement for performing a suspension or debarment verification check on vendors procured with federal funds. Cause Emerge’s internal controls over procurement of goods and services were not adequate. Effect Emerge was not in compliance with the Uniform Guidance regulations and guidelines related to suspension and debarment. However, it was subsequently determined that the vendor utilized was not suspended or debarred. Context During our review of procurement, we noted that Emerge does not have a policy or procedure in place that requires a verification check of suspension and debarment for covered transactions. For one vendor with whom purchases exceeded $25,000, Emerge did not perform a verification check. Audit procedures determined the vendor was not suspended or debarred. The sample was not intended to be, and was not, a statistically valid sample. Recommendation Management should develop and implement policies and procedures over procurement to ensure compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements under 2 CFR §180.300 and §200.318 through 326. Views of Responsible Officials See Corrective Action Plan.
Finding Number: 2024‐001 Repeat Finding: No Program Name/Assistance Listing Title: COVID‐19 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund Assistance Listing Number: 21.027 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Treasury Federal Award Number: 404‐23, CT‐BH‐22‐208, 422939 Pass‐Through Agency: Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence, Pima County, City of Tucson Questioned Costs: N/A Type of Finding: Noncompliance, Significant Deficiency Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment 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 §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. Additionally, non‐federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred. When a non‐federal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the non‐federal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR §180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. This verification may be accomplished by checking the System of Award Management (SAM) maintained by the General Services Administration (GSA), collecting a certification from the entity, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that entity (2 CFR §180.300). Condition Adequate internal controls over procurement procedures to ensure compliance with Uniform Guidance regulations and guidelines were not in place. Verification of suspension and debarment was not performed for one vendor with whom Emerge Center Against Domestic Abuse (Emerge) spent at least $25,000 of federal grant monies. In addition, Emerge's procurement policy does not include the requirement for performing a suspension or debarment verification check on vendors procured with federal funds. Cause Emerge’s internal controls over procurement of goods and services were not adequate. Effect Emerge was not in compliance with the Uniform Guidance regulations and guidelines related to suspension and debarment. However, it was subsequently determined that the vendor utilized was not suspended or debarred. Context During our review of procurement, we noted that Emerge does not have a policy or procedure in place that requires a verification check of suspension and debarment for covered transactions. For one vendor with whom purchases exceeded $25,000, Emerge did not perform a verification check. Audit procedures determined the vendor was not suspended or debarred. The sample was not intended to be, and was not, a statistically valid sample. Recommendation Management should develop and implement policies and procedures over procurement to ensure compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements under 2 CFR §180.300 and §200.318 through 326. Views of Responsible Officials See Corrective Action Plan.
2024-004 Department of Agriculture, Passed through Minnesota Department of Education Federal Financial Assistance Listing 10.553/10.555C/10.555/10.559/10.582 Child Nutrition Cluster Department of Education, Passed through Minnesota Department of Education Federal Financial Assistance Listing 84.027/84.173 Special Education Cluster Department of Education, Passed through Minnesota Department of Education Federal Financial Assistance Listing 84.371C Comprehensive Literacy Development Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control Over Compliance Criteria - Uniform Guidance and 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326 set forth the procurement standards non-federal entities other than states must follow when operating federal programs and the procurement procedures required. Condition - In our testing of procurement, suspension and debarment it was identified that the District’s micropurchase threshold did not satisfy the requirements of 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326. Cause - Lack of oversight, awareness, or understanding of all of the specific requirements under the Uniform Guidance and applicable CFR sections, and controls were not adequately designed to ensure compliance with all of these requirements. Effect - A lack of compliant policies increases the overall risk of non-compliance. Questioned Costs - None reported. Context/Sampling – Overall procurement policy. Repeat Finding from Prior Years – No. Recommendation - We recommend that management establish a written policy that is in compliance with all of the procurement requirements for federal programs as identified in 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.326 and maintain adequate supporting documentation and records to document history and methods of procurement and the procedures performed to comply with these CFR sections. View of responsible officials - There is no disagreement with the finding.