2025-002 Procurement, Suspension and Debarment - Compliance and Internal Control Finding – Material Weakness Federal Agency - U.S. Department of Treasury Federal Award Number - 21.027: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Pass-Through Entity - Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services Criteria Or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR §200.318 through §200.327, non-federal entities are required to establish and maintain documented written procurement policies and procedures for purchases funded with federal awards. Additionally, pursuant to 2 CFR §180 and 2 CFR §200.214, non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making covered transactions with parties that are suspended or debarred from participating in federal programs. The Uniform Guidance requires entities to verify that vendors are not suspended or debarred through SAM.gov or through other allowable methods and to maintain documentation supporting the verification. Condition: During testing of procurement transactions and vendor payments charged to federal programs, it was noted that the Organization did not perform or document suspension and debarment verification procedures prior to entering into covered transactions with vendors paid from federal awards. Additionally, the Organization was unable to provide evidence that competitive procurement methods, cost or price analyses, vendor selection procedures, or suspension and debarment reviews were consistently performed for federally funded purchases. Cause: Management has not established or implemented formal procurement policies and procedures designed to comply with Uniform Guidance procurement standards. In addition, management has not developed a process to perform and document suspension and debarment checks before executing contracts or making covered transactions funded by federal awards. As a result, internal controls over procurement and suspension and debarment compliance have not been designed, implemented, or monitored effectively. Effect: The lack of documented procurement procedures and suspension and debarment verification controls increases the risk that federal funds may be expended in a manner that does not comply with Uniform Guidance requirements. The Organization may inadvertently procure goods or services from suspended or debarred vendors, fail to obtain full and open competition, or otherwise incur expenditures that could be determined to be unallowable by federal awarding agencies. This deficiency could result in questioned costs, repayment of federal funds, increased monitoring by grantors, and damage to the Organization's reputation as a federal award recipient. For The Year Ended December 31, 2025 Questioned Costs: None. Context: A sample of procurement transactions and vendor disbursements charged to federal awards was tested. For all applicable transactions selected for testing, the Organization was unable to provide evidence of documented procurement procedures or suspension and debarment verification. No written procurement policy existed, and no evidence of SAM.gov searches or other allowable suspension and debarment verification methods was maintained. Identification As A Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: We recommend that management develop, formally adopt, and implement written procurement policies and procedures that comply with the requirements of Uniform Guidance. The policies should address procurement methods, documentation standards, competition requirements, conflict-of-interest provisions, cost and price analysis requirements, and vendor selection procedures. In addition, management should establish controls requiring documented suspension and debarment verification through SAM.gov or other allowable methods before entering into covered transactions with vendors funded by federal awards. Evidence of all compliance procedures should be retained and reviewed by supervisory personnel. Views Of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the findings and acknowledges that formal procurement and suspension and debarment procedures have not been established. Management intends to develop and implement written policies and procedures, provide staff training, and establish a vendor verification process designed to ensure compliance with Uniform Guidance procurement and suspension and debarment requirements.
2025-004 U.S. Department of the Treasury, Passed through the State of Michigan Federal Financial Assistance Listing 21.029, CV0019120, 2025 COVID-19 – Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Material Noncompliance Criteria – Uniform Guidance and 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.327 set forth the procurement standards non-federal entities other than states must follow when operating federal programs and the procurement procedures required. Condition – In our testing of procurement, suspension, and debarment it was identified that the Cooperative’s written policy did not address the requirements of 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.327. In addition, the Cooperative did not follow procurement, suspension, and debarment procedures required under the Uniform Guidance prior to entering into contracts with vendors. Cause – Lack of oversight, awareness, or understanding of all of the specific requirements under the Uniform Guidance and applicable CFR sections, and controls were not adequately designed to ensure compliance with all of these requirements. Effect – A lack of compliant policies and procedures increases the overall risk of noncompliance. Questioned Costs – None reported. Context/Sampling – Two out of four procurement contracts were selected for testing. Repeat Finding from Prior Years – Yes. 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 200.327 and maintain adequate supporting documentation and records to document history and methods of procurement, suspension, and debarment procedures performed to comply with these CFR sections. Views of Responsible Officials – There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Finding 2025-002 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services ALN: 93.493 Congressional Directed Spending for Construction Projects ALN: 93.526 Grants for Capital Development in Health Centers I - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Condition: During testing of procurement transactions subject to federal compliance requirements, we noted the Organization did not consistently follow its documented procurement policy. Specifically, for the seven transactions tested, management was unable to provide documentation supporting the procurement process performed, including evidence of competitive bids, vendor selection procedures, or other records demonstrating compliance with the procurement requirements outlined in its policy. Criteria: Per 2 CFR section 200.318(a), non-Federal entities must use and follow documented procurement procedures that are consistent with applicable Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of Federal awards. Additionally, 2 CFR section 200.320 through 200.327 require entities to maintain documentation supporting the procurement method used, including the basis for contractor selection and evidence of required competition when applicable. The Organization's procurement policy requires the solicitation and retention of competitive bids for purchases exceeding established thresholds. Cause: Management did not consistently adhere to established procurement procedures and did not maintain adequate documentation to demonstrate that required competitive procurement activities were performed. In addition, controls over the retention of procurement documentation were not operating effectively to ensure compliance with federal procurement requirements and the Organization's procurement policy. Effect: Without adequate documentation of the procurement process and competitive bidding requirements, the Organization cannot demonstrate compliance with Uniform Guidance procurement requirements. As a result, federal funds may have been expended in a manner that does not ensure full and open competition or may be subject to questioned costs by federal awarding agencies. Recommendation: We recommend that management strengthen internal controls over procurement activities by (1) ensuring procurement procedures are consistently followed for all federally funded purchases; (2) retaining documentation supporting the procurement method utilized, including competitive bids, quotes received, bid evaluations, vendor selection decisions, and contract approvals; (3) implementing a review process to verify procurement documentation is complete and maintained before expenditures are approved; and (4) providing training to personnel responsible for purchasing activities regarding Uniform Guidance procurement requirements and the Organization's procurement policy. View of Responsible Officials: Management acknowledges the finding and agrees that documentation supporting compliance with procurement requirements was not consistently retained. For the seven disbursements selected for testing, management had established longstanding relationships with the vendors utilized and, in several instances, there were a limited number of vendors capable of providing the specialized equipment and services acquired for the project. Management indicated that procurement procedures were performed during the vendor selection process, including obtaining and evaluating quotes, discussing vendor alternatives, and visiting other healthcare organizations to assess the quality and suitability of certain products before making purchasing decisions. However, many of these activities occurred several years earlier, at the outset of the construction project, and supporting documentation was not maintained in accordance with the Organization's procurement policy and federal documentation requirements. Management agrees with the finding and will implement procedures to ensure procurement activities are conducted and documented in accordance with the Organization's procurement policy and Uniform Guidance requirements. Corrective actions will include establishing a centralized procurement file, providing additional training to personnel responsible for purchasing activities, and implementing supervisory review procedures to ensure that competitive procurement and documentation requirements are consistently met and appropriately retained.
Corporation for National and Community Service Federal Financial Assistance Listing #94.012, 22BIICA001 10/1/2022 – 9/30/2025, 23BIACA001 10/1/2023 – 9/30/2026, 23BIFNY001 10/1/2023 – 9/30/2026 Americorps September 11th National Day of Service and Remembrance Grants Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Material Weakness in Internal Controls over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303(a) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and conditions of the federal award. The non-Federal entity’s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.327 which also requires documentation to be retained to detail the history of procurements. Condition: The Organization’s procurement policy is missing required provisions in accordance with 2 CFR 200.318. For each of the 3 vendors selected for testing there was no documentation retained to support the rationale for the method of procurement. Additionally, the Organization did not retain supporting documentation to substantiate whether consideration was taken whether the vendor was suspended or debarred from doing business with the federal government prior to entering the covered transaction for each of the 3 vendors selected for testing. Cause: There was a lapse in oversight of the internal control process ensuring documentation was retained supporting the Organization’s procurement, suspension and debarment process. Additionally, the Organization did not cross reference procurement policy with 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.327 ensuring minimum required provisions were included within. Effect: Without retaining documentation to support procurement, suspension and debarment rationale, demonstrating that the program complies with laws, regulations, and other compliance requirements is difficult. Questioned Costs: None reported based on assessment of comparative pricing readily available. Context/Sampling: A nonstatistical sample of 3 vendors out of 9 vendors were selected for testing. Repeat Finding from Prior Year: Yes, prior year finding 2024-003 Recommendation: We recommend management to review internal control procedures ensuring support is retained to substantiate procurement, suspension and debarment was considered prior to entering the transaction. We recommend management review 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.327 and revise the Organization’s procurement policy to include all minimum required provisions. Views of Responsible Officials: Management is in agreement.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Federal Program Title: Economic Development Initiative, Community Project Funding, and Miscellaneous Grants Assistance Listing Number: 14.251 Pass-Through Agency: N/A Pass-Through Numbers: N/A Award Period: 8/13/2024 – 8/31/2032 Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance. Condition: The Organization did not maintain a written procurement policy that incorporated the procurement standards required by Uniform Guidance during the fiscal year. As a result, procurement activities were not governed by a formally documented policy designed to ensure compliance with federal requirements. Criteria or specific requirement: 2 CFR §200.318 through §200.327 requires non-federal entities expending federal awards to maintain and follow documented procurement policies and procedures that comply with the procurement standards established under Uniform Guidance. Cause: Management had not established or updated procurement policies and procedures to address the specific requirements of Uniform Guidance. Effect: The absence of a compliant procurement policy increases the risk that procurements funded by federal awards may not be conducted in accordance with applicable federal requirements, including competition, documentation, and vendor selection standards. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend that management develop, adopt, and implement a written procurement policy that complies with the requirements of 2 CFR §200.318 through §200.327 and ensure personnel involved in procurement activities are trained on the policy and applicable federal requirements. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Assistance Listing 10.766 Title Community Facilities Loans and Grants Federal Grantor U.S. Department of Agriculture Compliance Area Reporting Type of Finding Internal Control – Significant Deficiency Questioned Costs None Reported Repeat Finding Yes Criteria 2 CFR 200.327 establishes that reports be complete, accurate, and supported by accounting records (if applicable) and be submitted in compliance with the appropriate deadlines. Condition Westward Heights submitted multiple reports to the USDA after the required due dates. Cause Westward Heights did not have an internal control policy in place to ensure timely closing of month-end or year-end financials. Effect The lack of policy resulted in multiple reports being submitted to the USDA after the due date. Recommendation We recommend that Westward Heights establish deadlines for accounting personnel to complete month-end and year-end financials. Views of Responsible Officials Management and Westward Heights’ Board of Directors agree with the finding. See Westward Heights’ Corrective Action Plan for Finding 2025-002.
Department of Veteran Affairs FFAL #64.033, 20-SD-136-25, 10/1/2024 – 12/31/2025 FFAL #64.033, 20-SD-136-26, 10/1/2025 – 9/30/2026 VA Supportive Services for Veteran Families Program Procurement, Suspension & Debarment Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Material Noncompliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303(a) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award. 2 CFR 200.318 maintains that recipients must have and use documented procurement policies and must conform with procurement standards in sections 200.317 through 200.327. Additionally, 2 CFR 200.214 requires recipients to restrict making contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or excluded from participating in Federal awards. Condition: Testing of the federal program identified the following: a. The Organization’s formally documented procurement policy is missing one required element as it relates to domestic preferences (2 CFR 200.322). b. Two lease agreements were entered into where the Organization did not follow the procurement process as detailed in the procurement policy. The lease agreements with the vendors were also missing a required contract provision in accordance with Uniform Guidance and there was no review performed by the Organization to ensure the vendors were not suspended or debarred as the lease agreements with the vendors were over $25,000. Cause: Individuals with key roles over compliance reporting were not involved in the Organization’s compliance reporting activities for the full year. Contract provisions were not evaluated compared to Uniform Guidance contract requirements. Lease agreements entered into were not evaluated in accordance with Uniform Guidance as it relates to suspension and debarment. Effect: Ineffective controls over this area of compliance could result in a reasonable possibility the Organization would be noncompliant with the compliance requirements outlined above. Additionally, the Organization may enter into a covered transaction with a vendor that is suspended or debarred. Questioned Costs: None reported. Context/Sampling: A nonstatistical sample of 2 out of 4 vendors were selected for testing. Repeat Finding from Prior Year: No Recommendation: We recommend the Organization update their procurement policy to ensure it includes the required elements as it relates to domestic preference. In addition, we suggest that management implement procedures and control processes related to the review of contracts to ensure the procurement methods are being followed, documentation is being retained, and that the contracts include the required Uniform Guidance provisions. Also, management should ensure vendors are not suspended or debarred from doing business with the federal government. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding.
2025-004 Procurement Policy Criteria: Under 2 CFR §200.318 through 200.327, General Procurement Standards, a non-federal entity must use and document procurement procedures for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. Additionally, the non-federal entity must include policies and procedures related to competition, informal and formal procurement methods, and noncompetitive procurement known as sole source. 2 CFR §200.214, Suspension and Debarment, requires entities to verify that vendors are not suspended or debarred from participating in federal funds. Condition: There is no evidence of a documented formal procurement policy with regards to federal grant awards and expenditures; no documented support that a competitive price analysis for vendors and organizations funded with federal grant funds were performed; and no evidence that suspension and debarment verifications were performed for certain vendors and organizations, as required by the general procurement standards of the Uniform Guidance. Context: We tested all procurement transactions totaling $863,741. All transactions tested lacked documentation to demonstrate compliance with the applicable procurement requirements of the Uniform Guidance. Cause: Management had not established and formally adopted procurement policies and procedures consistent with Uniform Guidance requirements during the audit year. Effect: Without documented procurement policies, there is an increased risk that procurements may not be conducted in accordance with Federal requirements, resulting in potential noncompliance with the Uniform Guidance. Charges relating to vendor services and sub-awards that were charged to the federal award may not be in accordance with the specific compliance requirements of the Uniform Guidance. Recommendation: We recommend that management develop, formally adopt, and implement written procurement policies and procedures that comply with the procurement standards in 2 CFR §200.317 through 200.327 and provide training to personnel responsible for purchasing. We also recommend the Organization to adopt policies that incorporate the requirements of 2 CFR §200.214 regarding suspension and debarment regulations. We also recommend that a review of all existing vendor contract filed be performed to ensure that the documentation, as required by the Uniform Guidance, is maintained in the files.Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The Organization is in the process of developing a corrective action plan and provide personnel training.
All Funding Sources Significant Deficiency Procurement Criteria An entity must have and use documented procurement policies consistent with Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, and standards for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in CFR § 200.317 through 200.327. Condition The Center maintains specific grant manuals and guidelines as its written policies; however, previous audit identified errors in misapplying grant guidelines among funding sources. A recommendation was made in previous audit to develop a policy that would cover all procurements using Federally sourced funds. A draft policy was developed, but was not approved during the year ended September 30, 2025. Cause The entity has continued to reference specific grant manuals and guidelines as its written procurement policy. Effect Failure to follow appropriate procurement procedures could result in excess procurement costs being disallowed and subject the entity to possible claims. Recommendation We recommend management present the draft to the board, so it can be voted on and put into place. Management's Response Management agrees with our recommendation and the policy was voted on subsequent to year end and put into place.
Federal Agency: Environmental Protection Agency Federal Program Name: Water Pollution Control Assistance Listing Numbers: 66.419 Federal Award Identification Number: 98339418 Pass-Through Agency: N/A Pass-Through Number(s): N/A Award Period: 10/1/2023 - 12/30/2025 Compliance Requirement: Procurement Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matter Criteria or specific requirement: Compliance: 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 §200.327. 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. Small purchase procedures are used for purchases that exceed the micro-purchase amount but do not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold ($250,000). If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources (2 CFR §200.320(b)). Control: Per 2 CFR §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 comply with the 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). Condition/Context: For two of five procurements selected for testing, the Commission was unable to provide documentation (completed requisition form) to demonstrate compliance with their procurement policy. Questioned costs: Undetermined. Cause: Controls were not operating effectively to ensure that the Commission’s procurement policies were followed for procurements entered into where expenses were charged to the federal program. Effect: The Commission was unable to provide documentation to support compliance with Federal requirements. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: We recommend that the Commission ensure that it follows its procurement policies for all goods and services charged to the program and that documentation be readily available for audit. Views of responsible officials: To prevent future noncompliance the Commission will 1)clarify vendor coverage on existing agreements, 2) strengthen controls over procurement threshold, 3) monitor cumulative spending by vendor, and 4) reinforce training and communication.
Finding 2025-001 – Procurement, Non-compliance (Significant Deficiency) Federal programs: Covid-19 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Criteria: 2 CFR § 200.318(a) requires that the recipient or subrecipient must maintain and use documented procurement procedures for procurement transactions under federal awards. These procedures must be consistent with applicable laws and the procurement standards in Sections 200.317 through 200.327. Condition: During our testing of procurement transactions, we noted that the Authority does not have formal, written procurement policies and procedures governing the acquisition of goods and services with federal award funds. Context: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment was identified as a direct and material compliance requirement for the major program. As such, the Uniform Guidance requires the auditee to both design and implement internal controls over compliance, including formal, documented procurement policies. Cause: Management has not developed or implemented formal written policies to address procurement requirements under the Uniform Guidance. Effect: The absence of documented procedures increases the risk that procurement activities are not conducted in accordance with Uniform Guidance requirements. Questioned Costs: None Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend that management develop and implement formal, written procurement policies and procedures that comply with 2 CFR Sections 200.317 through 200.327, which address procurement methods, competition requirements, and documentation standards, and are consistently applied to all procurement transactions under federal awards. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding and the auditors’ recommendation. See Corrective Action Plan at the end of the report.
Department of Treasury, State of Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs, Federal Financial Assistance Listing 21.029, AL192-23-NLC-23-103, AL192-23-NLC-25-104 A, AL192-23-NLC-25-104 B Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund Procurement, Suspension & Debarment Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Material Noncompliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303(a) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award. 2 CFR 200.318 maintains that recipients must have and use documented procurement policies and must conform procurement standards to Uniform Guidance standards in sections 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR 200 Appendix II requires certain provisions be included in contracts if criteria are applicable. Additionally, 2 CFR 200.214 requires recipients to restrict the subawards and contract with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or excluded from ineligible participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Condition: Testing of the federal program identified the following: • The Entity’s formally documented procurement policy was missing the required elements detailed under Uniform Guidance • Four instances where the Entity did not follow the procurement process and did not have any formal documentation in place with the vendors. • Four instances where the Entity entered into a contract with a vendor over $25,000 and there was no review performed to ensure the vendor was not suspended or debarred. Cause: The Entity was not aware of the federal procurement requirements. Contract provisions were not evaluated compared to Uniform Guidance contract requirements. Contracts entered were not evaluated in accordance with Uniform Guidance as it relates to suspension and debarment. Effect: Ineffective controls over this area of compliance could result in a reasonable possibility the Entity would be noncompliant with the compliance requirements outlined above. Additionally, the Entity may enter into a covered transaction with a vendor that is suspended or debarred. Questioned Costs: None reported. Context/Sampling: A nonstatistical sample of 4 out of 10 vendors were selected for testing. Repeat Finding form Prior Year: No Recommendation: We recommend the Entity update their procurement policy to ensure it includes all the required elements in accordance with Uniform Guidance. In addition, we suggest that management implement procedures and control processes related to the review of procurement to ensure the procurement methods are being followed and documentation is retained to support compliance. Also, management should ensure vendors are not suspended or debarred from doing business with the federal government prior to entering into a procurement transaction. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding.
Finding 2025-001: U.S. Department of the Treasury Federal Financial Assistance Listing 21.027 COVID-19 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Controls over Compliance and Material Noncompliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.327 and Appendix II to part 200 require that certain provisions, including the Davis-Bacon Act and Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act (CWHSSA), be included in covered contracts when applicable. Condition: Contract agreements entered into by the County under this federal program did not include the required provisions related to the Davis-Bacon Act and the CWHSSA. Cause: The County did not have an internal control process in place to ensure that all required federal contract provisions, including the Davis-Bacon Act and CWHSSA clauses, were incorporated into applicable agreements. Effect: The omission of the required federal contract provisions noted above may result in noncompliance with federal regulations as contractors may not be held to federally required labor standards. Questioned Costs: None. Context / Sampling: We tested four of 14 agreements subject to procurement in the SLFRF program. Repeat Finding from Prior Year: No Recommendation: We recommend the County implement a control process to ensure that all federally required contract provisions are included in applicable agreements prior to execution. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the noted finding. Refer to Corrective Action Plan.
Assistance Listing, Federal Agency, and Program Name 93.493, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Congressional Directives Federal Award Identification Number and Year CE1HS52674 & CE1HS53568 2025 Pass through Entity N/A Finding Type Material weakness and material noncompliance with laws and regulations Repeat Finding No Criteria The Corporation is required to maintain and follow written procurement procedures that comply with Uniform Guidance procurement standards, including the requirements in 2 CFR 200.317-200.327 regarding procurement methods and documentation of the history of procurement transactions. The Corporation is also required to comply with suspension and debarment requirements, including verification procedures required under 2 CFR 200.212, 2 CFR 200.318(h), 2 CFR 180.300, and 48 CFR 52.209-6. The requirements state that procurements paid with federal funds are supported by documentation showing the method of procurement, the basis for contractor selection, and compliance with suspension and debarment requirements. Condition The Corporation’s procurement and suspension/debarment policies and procedures were not in conformance with Uniform Guidance requirements. In addition, procurement records for the items tested did not contain sufficient documentation to support the procurement method used, the basis for contract selection, or compliance with suspension and debarment requirements. Questioned Costs $1,350,000 If questioned costs are not determinable, description of why known questioned costs were undetermined or otherwise could not be reported N/A Identification of How Questioned Costs Were Computed The questioned costs represent activity reported on the SEFA incurred under contracts not in compliance with federal procurement standards. Context For both contracts tested, no records were available to support the procurement method, contractor selection, or performance of required suspension/debarment verification procedures. Based on the items tested, the issue was not an isolated documentation exception but reflected a control and compliance deficiency affecting the compliance areas of procurement and suspension/debarment. Cause and Effect The Corporation did not have sufficiently developed procurement, suspension, and debarment policies and procedures aligned to Uniform Guidance requirements. As a result, compliance procedures over these areas were not adequately established or performed. Without Uniform Guidance-compliant procurement policies, required procurement history documentation, and evidence of suspension/debarment verification, the Corporation cannot demonstrate that contracts charged to the federal award were procured in accordance with federal requirements. This increases the risk of noncompliance with procurement and suspension/debarment requirements and resulted in material noncompliance over the major program. Recommendation The Corporation should update and formally adopt written procurement, suspension, and debarment policies and procedures to conform to Uniform Guidance requirements and should implement procedures to ensure those policies are consistently followed and documented for all federally funded procurements. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions The Corporation concurs with the finding. The Corporation will update and formally adopt written procurement, suspension, and debarment policies and procedures to conform to Uniform Guidance requirements and implement procedures to ensure those policies are consistently followed and documented for all federally funded procurements.
Non-compliance with Federal Award Requirement Identification of Federal Program 20.205 - Highway Construction and Planning; U.S. Department of Transportation; Passed-through State of Mississippi Department of Transportation Criteria 2 CFR 200.318(a) requires non-Federal entities to maintain and use documented procurement procedures that are consistent with applicable Federal statutes, regulations, and the standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327 as well as maintaining written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of employees engaged in the selection, award, and administration of contracts supported by Federal funds. Condition For the year under audit, the City did not have documentation of adopted procurement policies and procedures that addressed procurement standards or a written standard of conduct governing employees engaged in contract administration as required by Uniform Guidance. Cause Management had not established or adopted formal policies and procedures to ensure compliance with the procurement requirements of Uniform Guidance. Effect Without documented procurement policies and written standards of conduct, the City is at increased risk of noncompliance with Federal procurement requirements. Questioned Costs No questioned costs resulted from this matter. Repeat Finding This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation We recommend management development, approve, and implement written procurement policies and procedures and adopt a written standard of conduct addressing conflicts of interest and ethical expectations for employees and officials involved in the procurement process. Views of Responsible Officials Managment contends they have followed state procurement law and has since adopted a formal policy stipulating compliance with State of Mississippi procurement and Federal procurement requirements. A written standard of conduct for employees engaged in contract selection, award, and administration is in process and expected to be formally adopted in the near future.
2025-002 PROCUREMENT (repeat comment) Type: Material weakness in internal control over compliance/noncompliance Program: ALN 93.696 Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics Expansion Grants (CCBHC) Criteria: Per 2 CFR section 200.318, the non-Federal entity, “…must maintain and use documented procedures for procurement transactions under a Federal award or subaward, including for acquisition of property or services. These documented procurement procedures must be consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327.” Condition: During testing, it was noted that the CMHSP had not followed procurement requirements for the contract entered into for project evaluation and coordination services. This is the same contract that produced a material finding in the prior year single audit. Cause/Effect: Management oversight. Questioned Cost: $150,000 – the amount paid during the fiscal year pursuant to contract in question. Recommendation: We recommend that the CMHSP review/update policies and procedures to ensure that all federal requirements for procurements are followed for future contracts entered into with federal funds. Management’s Resp: Management is in agreement with this recommendation. Also, the grantor was notified of this finding and has notified the CMHSP that there is no elevated level of risk moving forward through the remainder of the grant cycle.
FINDING 2025-002 Internal Control over Compliance and Compliance with Procurement, Suspension and Debarment (Significant Deficiency and Noncompliance) Federal Agency: Various Federal Agencies Federal Program: Research and Development Cluster Assistance Listing Numbers: 47.076, 93.243, and 47.010 (Direct Awards) Criteria: Uniform Guidance requires recipients and subrecipients to maintain and use documented procurement procedures for procurement transactions under a Federal award or subaward, and such procedures must be consistent with the procurement standards in 2 CFR § 200.317 through 200.327. In addition, 2 CFR § 200.320(a)(1)(ii) provides that micro-purchases may be awarded without soliciting competitive price or rate quotations only if the recipient or subrecipient considers the price reasonable based on research, experience, purchase history, or other information and maintains documentation to support its conclusion. Condition: During the audit, we tested five (5) vendors classified as micro-purchases. For each selected vendor, the University was unable to provide documentation evidencing that a cost or price reasonableness review was performed prior to vendor selection or contract execution. Specifically, the procurement files did not include pricing comparisons, competing quotes, market research, purchase history, documented experience, or other support demonstrating how the contract price was determined to be reasonable. Effect or Potential Effect: Without documented evidence of price reasonableness, the University cannot demonstrate that micro-purchase awards were made in accordance with Uniform Guidance procurement requirements. This increases the risk that federally-funded procurement transactions may not be supported by adequate documentation to demonstrate that prices paid were reasonable, and that procurement decisions may not be consistently supported, reviewed, and retained in accordance with federal requirements. Context: This is a condition based on testing the University’s compliance with specific requirements. The prevalence of this finding is detailed in the condition above. The samples were selected using a non-statistical method. Cause: The University did not consistently maintain documentation within its procurement files to evidence that price reasonableness was considered and supported prior to vendor selection or contract execution for micro-purchase transactions. Questioned Costs: No questioned costs were identified. The finding relates to insufficient documentation supporting the price reasonableness determination of certain procurements. Recommendation: We recommend that the University strengthen its procurement procedures for federally-funded micro-purchases to require documentation of price reasonableness prior to approval of the purchase or execution of the contract. We further recommend that the University require such documentation to be retained in a consistent manner and that procurement personnel review the documentation for completeness before approval. Views of Responsible Official: Management’s corrective action plan, including immediate remediation steps and enhancements to internal controls over Procurement, Suspension and Debarment, is presented in the Corrective Action Plan section of this report.
Criteria: Pursuant to 2 CFR § 200.318, non-Federal entities must maintain documented procurement procedures that conform to applicable State, local, and organizational laws and regulations, as well as the standards identified in 2 CFR § 200.317 through § 200.327. Condition: The Center adopted a written procurement policy in July 2025. However, because the policy was not in effect for the majority of the audit period, the required procurement procedures (such as micro_x0002_purchase thresholds, mail purchase price/rate quotations, or formal competitive proposals) for vendor selections were not consistently performed or documented throughout the fiscal year. Effect of Condition and Questioned Costs: Because written procurement policies and control procedures were not in place for the full year, the Center cannot ensure that goods and services purchased with federal funds are acquired in a manner providing full and open competition, or that prices paid are reasonable. ● Sample Testing: Out of seven transactions tested, we identified seven transactions totaling $409,114 for which required procurement procedures were not performed or documented. ● Questioned Costs: Known questioned costs total $409,114 [exceeds the $25,000 threshold under 2 CFR § 200.516(a)(3)]. Cause: Management did not formally adopt written internal policies and procedures for procurement under federal awards until July 2025. Consequently, for most of the fiscal year, staff responsible for purchasing operated without formal guideless or training regarding federal compliance requirements. Recommendation: We recommend that management consistently enforce the written procurement policy adopted in July 21025 to ensure ongoing compliance with 2 CFR § 200.317 through § 200.327. Additionally, management should ensure all personnel involved in federal purchasing are trained on these requirements and implement controls to retain supporting documentation (such as vendor quotes, price comparisons, or sole-source justifications) for all federal procurements. View of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action: The Center agrees with the finding. Management formally adopted a Uniform Guidance compliant procurement policy in July 2025, and training with provided to all staff. See the separate Corrective Action Plan for full details
Material Weaknesses 2025-001 – Procurement, Suspension & Debarment Federal Program Information: U.S. Department of Agriculture ALN 10.567 Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations Criteria: The following CFR(s) apply to this finding: 2 CFR 200.317-200.327 Condition: During audit procedures, it was identified that the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians did not follow their procurement policies and procedures. Cause: The Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians does not have the necessary internal controls over procurements. Effect: Procurements may not be conducted in compliance with federal requirements and could result in unallowable expenses being charged to the program and subsequently improperly reimbursed by federal funds. Identification of Questioned Costs: None identified. Context: During audit procedures, auditor requested copies of the contracts and procurement history files, none could be provided. This is not a statistically valid sample. Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: It is recommended that the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians familiarize themselves with the program requirements and implement the internal control policies and procedures that have already been adopted by them. Views of Responsible Officials and Corrective Action Plan: Please see the Corrective Action Plan issued by the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians.
Federal Agency: Department of Health and Human Services Federal Program Name: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Projects of Regional and National Significance Assistance Listing Number: 93.243 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: 1H79SM087513-01 - 2024 Award Period: September 30, 2023 through September 29, 2027 Type of Finding: • Other Matters Criteria or specific requirement: According to 2 CFR 200.318, non-federal entities must have and use documented procurement procedures that reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, and conform to federal law and the standards identified in 2 CFR 200.318 through 2 CFR 200.327. Condition: During our review of the organization's procurement processes, it was noted that the organization does not have a procurement policy that complies with federal requirements. Specifically, the policy does not address key elements such as competition, cost or price analysis, and documentation requirements as outlined in federal regulations. Questioned costs: None Context: Policies exist, but do not meet requirements. There are no requirements to retain documentation related to comparison or analysis prior to purchase or procurement. Cause: The absence of a compliant procurement policy appears to be due to a lack of awareness of the specific federal requirements and the absence of a formal process to review and update organizational policies to ensure compliance. Repeat Finding: Yes Effect: Without a procurement policy that complies with federal requirements, the organization is at risk of non-compliance with grant conditions, which could lead to questioned costs, potential disallowance of expenditures, and jeopardize future funding opportunities. Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization develop and implement a procurement policy that complies with federal requirements, including provisions for competition, cost or price analysis, and proper documentation. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Finding No.: 2025-013 – Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Identification of the federal program: Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education AL No. and Title: 84.403 Consolidated Grants Federal Award No.: S403A230002, S403A240002 Criteria or specific requirement (including statutory, regulatory or other citation) #1: 2 CFR 200.318(a) states the recipient or subrecipient must maintain and use documented procedures for procurement transactions under a Federal award or subaward, including for acquisition of property or services. These documented procurement procedures must be consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. Accordingly, documented procedures must ensure consistency to standards in 2 CFR 200.324(a) which articulates that the recipient or subrecipient must perform a cost or price analysis for every procurement transaction, including contract modifications, in excess of the simplified acquisition threshold. The method and degree of analysis conducted depend on the facts surrounding the particular procurement transaction. Criteria or specific requirement (including statutory, regulatory or other citation) #2: In accordance with 2 CFR 180.300, entities that enter into covered transactions must verify that the person with whom they intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified by: a) Checking SAM.gov Exclusions; or b) Collecting a certification from that person; or c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. According to 2 CFR 180.220(b)(1), a procurement transaction is considered a covered transaction if the contract amount is expected to equal or exceed $25,000. Condition #1: There is no cost or price analysis performed related to PO No. 20250970 amounting to $328,465. Condition #2: For the following procurement transactions, GDOE did not verify whether a person or a vendor is excluded or disqualified pursuant to the requirements of 2 CFR 180.300 prior to entering into covered transactions: Purchase Order # Purchase Order Amount FY25 Expenditure 20250974 $ 239,975 $ 239,975 20251164 239,970 239,970 20250970 328,465 328,465 20250248 232,496 232,496 20250615 150,546 150,546 20250240 140,365 140,365 20250325 35,948 35,948 20250702 32,208 32,208 20250943 29,792 29,792 20250694 219,068 97,568 20250180 174,676 174,676 20250207 147,525 147,525 20250268 129,439 129,439 20250075 49,610 49,610 20250051 35,140 35,140 20250189 25,650 25,650 20250079 195,413 195,413 $2,406,286 $2,284,786 Cause #1: GDOE lacks internal control over periodic review of procurement policies to ensure all required provisions stated in the Compliance Supplement are covered, specifically, the requirements of 2 CFR 200.324 regarding cost or price analysis. Cause #2: GDOE’s policies and procedures only require a review of excluded parties in SAM.gov for competitive selection procedures covering contracts exceeding $250,000. However, this is only performed for new vendors during the vendor registration or creation process and not on per covered transaction basis. In addition, GDOE’s policies do not specify how the performance of the vendor review should be documented, hence, there was no trail whether such was actually performed. Effect or Potential Effect: GDOE is in noncompliance with the applicable procurement and suspension and debarment compliance requirements. Questioned costs: $2,284,786. The questioned costs relate to the FY25 expenditures of procurement transactions where the required verification before entering into covered transaction was not performed. Per auditors’ verification, the vendors with whom GDOE transacted business with are not suspended or debarred as of September 30, 2025. Context #1: We identified 246 procurement transactions during the year totaling $4,856,571. We tested 42 procurement transactions totaling $2,405,276. The samples were statistically valid. Of 42 procurement transactions tested, one transaction exceeded the simplified acquisition threshold where no cost or price analysis was performed. Context #2: We identified 39 procurement transactions subject to suspension and debarment compliance requirements during the year totaling $4,031,280. We tested 17 procurement transactions totaling $2,284,786. The samples were statistically valid. For all 17 (or 100%) procurement transactions tested, the required verification before entering into covered transaction was not performed. Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: 2024-009 Recommendation: GDOE should revisit its procurement policies and ensure all required provisions stated in the Compliance Supplement are covered, specifically, the requirements of 2 CFR 200.324 regarding cost or price analysis. GDOE should establish formal policy requiring verification and retaining documentation of procedures performed, to verify that the person in a covered transaction with whom they intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. View of Responsible Officials: GDOE agrees with the finding and provides details in its Corrective Action Plan.
Finding 2025-001: Reportable finding considered a significant deficiency - Noncompliance with Internal Procurement Authorization Controls Program name: Child and Adult Care Food Program Assistance Listing: 10.558 Federal awarding agency: U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Pass-through entity: Maryland State Department of Education, District of Columbia Education Office Award identification number: 012-2024/2025-3539-000 Award Years: 2024/2025 Criteria: Under 2 CFR 200.318(a), non-federal entities must establish and maintain oversight to ensure that contractors perform in accordance with the terms, conditions, and specifications of their contracts or purchase orders. As required under 2 CFR Subpart D (§§200.317–200.327), organizations must follow written procurement procedures that reflect applicable state, local, and tribal laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal law and the standards in the Uniform Guidance. The Organization’s internal procurement policy includes specific thresholds for contract approvals and designates levels of review and signature authority based on the contract value. Adherence to these internal controls is essential to ensure compliance with federal procurement requirements and appropriate stewardship of federal funds. Condition: During our testing of procurement activity, we noted that procurement contracts were executed (in September/October of 2024) by an individual who did not have the delegated authority to approve or sign the agreement, as required by the Organization’s internal procurement policy. The contracts exceeded the individual’s approval threshold. The policy’s required internal approval levels were not followed prior to execution. Cause: This issue appears to have resulted from a breakdown in adherence to established internal control procedures, possibly due to a lack of training or oversight. The Organization’s procurement policy was in place and compliant with 2 CFR requirements, but it was not enforced in practice. Effect: Noncompliance with internal procurement approval controls increases the risk of unauthorized or inappropriate spending, lack of transparency, and potential ineligibility of costs charged to federal programs. While the transaction itself may ultimately be allowable, failure to follow established approval protocols constitutes a significant deficiency in internal control over compliance. Repeat finding: This is a repeat finding. See 2024-004 in prior year report. Questioned costs: None identified, as the expenditure appeared otherwise allowable. However, the control deficiency presents a risk for future noncompliance. Perspective: We selected two procurement transactions from a population of four procurement transactions from this program. The issue reflects a control failure affecting procurement activity across federally funded programs and may result in future questioned costs if not corrected. Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization follow up with the relevant parties to ensure proper reporting requirements are met on a timely basis. Management’s response and corrective action plan (unaudited): See corrective action plan
Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Federal Program Title: Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) ALN: 66.468 Pass-Through Agency: N/A Pass-Through Number(s): N/A Award Number and Period: 2521902915 September 1, 2024 - August 31, 2025 Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a statistically valid sample Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or specific requirement: "Per 2 CFR §200.303(a), Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) must establish, document, 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 align with the 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). Per 2 CFR §200.318, the recipient or subrecipient must maintain and use documented procedures for procurement transactions under a federal award or subaward, including for acquisition of property or services. These documented procurement procedures must be consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. Per 2 CFR §200.214, recipients and subrecipients are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, as well as 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict making Federal awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from receiving or participating in Federal awards. Condition: Audit procedures included a review of five procurements conducted during the fiscal year to assess whether TCEQ adhered to required procurement procedures and performed vendor eligibility verifications prior to entering into covered transactions. For one procurement, totaling $16,175, the required procurement processes were not followed, and the necessary vendor compliance checks, including verification of suspension and debarment status, were not completed before executing the transaction. Questioned costs: None. Context: See “Condition.” Cause: The procurement was initiated directly by the program area without notifying or coordinating with the Procurement and Contracts Section. Program staff proceeded with the purchase under the assumption that procurement involvement was unnecessary because the selected vendor was the sole provider of the required item. As a result, established procurement procedures and vendor compliance verification processes were not followed. Effect: Failure to follow procurement procedures and complete proper vendor compliance checks prior to entering into a covered transaction may lead to entering contracts with suspended or debarred vendors that could result in noncompliance and questioned costs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: TCEQ should provide targeted training to program staff on federal procurement requirements, including the necessity of coordinating all purchases through the P&C Section and completing required vendor compliance checks. Training should emphasize procedures for sole‑source or limited‑source procurements and reinforce staff responsibilities under 2 CFR procurement and internal control standards. Regular refresher sessions and documented guidance will help ensure consistent understanding and adherence to required procurement practices across all program areas. Views of responsible officials: The Financial Administration Division (FAD) will implement the audit’s recommendations. FAD will reinforce the guidance provided through continuous training, documentation, and improved internal controls.
Assistance Listing, Federal Agency, and Program Name - 93.088, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Advancing System Improvements for Key Issues in Women's Health 93.323, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity for Infectious Diseases (ELC) 93.592, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Family Violence Prevention and Services/Discretionary and COVID - 19 Family Violence Prevention and Services/Discretionary 93.837, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Cardiovascular Disease Research (Research and Development Cluster) Federal Award Identification Number and Year - 93.088 ASTWH220110 (2023 and 2024) 93.323 - 32680012K (2024) 93.592 - 90EV0516 (2021); 90EV0530 (2023); ; 90EV0544 (2024) 93.837 - U01HL146245 (2024) Pass through Entity - 93.088 N/A 93.323 - Illinois Department of Public Health 93.592 - N/A 93.837 - N/A Finding Type - Material weakness and material noncompliance with laws and regulations Repeat Finding - Yes 2024-001 Criteria - Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), nonfederal entities must establish and maintain effective internal controls over the federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the nonfederal entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with the guidance in Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government, issued by the Comptroller General of the United States, or the Internal Control Framework, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Per 2 CFR 200.318(a), the nonfederal entity must have and use documented procedures, consistent with state, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. The nonfederal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§200.317 through 200.327. The LLC has established in its internal procurement policies and procedures that a minimum of 3 quotes must be obtained for purchases made under informal, simplified acquisition procedures. Per 2 CFR 200.318(i), the nonfederal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Condition - Controls were not sufficient to ensure that the history of procurement decisions was documented, as required by 2 CFR 200. Additionally, controls were not sufficient to ensure checks for suspension and debarment were documented before entering into covered transactions with third parties. Questioned Costs - unknown If questioned costs are not determinable, description of why known questioned costs were undetermined or otherwise could not be reported We are unable to predictably quantify, had federal procurement standards been followed, which portion of activity presented on the SEFA under these contracts would be in question. Identification of How Questioned Costs Were Computed N/A Context - 93.088 - Management was unable to provide evidence that three out of three contractors tested was checked for suspension and debarment in advance of entering into a covered transaction. 93.323 - Management was unable to provide evidence that three out of three contractors tested was checked for suspension and debarment in advance of entering into a covered transaction. 93.592 - Management was unable to provide evidence that four out of four contractors tested was checked for suspension and debarment in advance of entering into a covered transaction. 93.837 - Of the four contracts tested, management was unable to produce records sufficient to detail the history of procurement for one contract. Additionally, for that same contractor, management was unable to provide evidence that the third party was checked for suspension and debarment in advance of entering into a covered transaction. Because we were able to confirm via a check of the Excluded Parties Listing that the contractors noted above were not suspended or debarred, no questioned costs related to this noncompliance were identified. Cause and Effect - Newly revised procurement policies and procedures implemented during the last month of the fiscal period under audit were not in place during the time of the contract acquisitions noted above, and therefore a lack of internally established procurement documentation practices resulted in material noncompliance with federal procurement standards. Recommendation - We recommend that management continue to follow and formalize its procurement policies and procedures to demonstrate how the LLC will achieve compliance with federal procurement standards identified in §§200.317 through 200.327. Additionally, we recommend management retain documented evidence that its policies and procedures were followed to ensure compliance with federal procurement standards. Views of Responsible Officials and Corrective Action Plan - Management will continue to strengthen internal controls through the revised Procurement Policy, enhanced documentation requirements, and clarified approval procedures. A centralized tracking database has been implemented to document sanctions, suspension, and debarment checks, as well as other required verifications based on the nature of each purchase or service. These procedures are required prior to entering into covered transactions and are monitored through dual staff reviews. Management believes that ongoing monitoring and consistent enforcement of these procedures will ensure compliance and prevent recurrence.
Congressional Directives ALN 93.493 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Award Year: September 1, 2024 to August 31, 2025 Criteria or specific requirement – Procurement, Suspension and Debarment (2 CFR 200.317 – 200.327; 2 CFR 180.220) Condition – The District is required to have procedures to ensure vendors are not suspended or debarred prior to charging services to the grant, as well as required to follow their own documented procurement procedures which should conform to the Uniform Guidance procurement standards. Cause – The District did not follow compliant procurement procedures prior to charging services to the grant. Effect or potential effect – The District’s procurement policy does not include required suspension and debarment procedures. In addition, the District did not provide for full and open competition in procuring services with grant funds. Questioned costs – $312,535 – Questioned costs represent expenses for the tested vendors in which price or rate quotations from an adequate number of qualified sources were not obtained. Context – Out of a population of three vendors with expenses directly charged to the grant that were above the micro-purchase threshold, two contracts were selected for testing. Our sampling method was not and was not meant to be statistically valid. The District did not obtain price or rate quotations from an adequate number of qualified sources for either of the vendors selected for testing. Identification as a repeat finding – N/A Recommendation – Contracts directly charged to a federal award should be reviewed to ensure compliance with the Uniform Guidance. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions – The District has reviewed the applicable requirements of the Office of Management and Budget Uniform Guidance for procurement standards, specifically those related to the requirement for procedures to be documented regarding suspension and debarment and noncompetitive procurement. The District acknowledges that their procurement policy does not currently conform to the Uniform Guidance procurement standards, and formal procurement methods were not utilized for certain grant expenses. At the time of procurement, the District operated under the understanding that engagement of a vendor holding a General Services Administration (GSA) contract was consistent with and would satisfy applicable procurement requirements. Upon further review, the District recognizes that this assumption did not, in itself, meet all Uniform Guidance requirements, particularly with respect to documentation and justification of procurement methods. To ensure compliance with Uniform Guidance going forward, the District will implement corrective actions. The District will update the current procurement policy to ensure compliance with the Uniform Guidance. The District will provide formal training to existing grant Program Managers on Uniform Guidance procurement standards. Additionally, for any new grant opportunities, the grant committee will receive training on Uniform Guidance procurement standards prior to the completion of grant applications. For both existing and future grants, any proposed contracts or purchases exceeding $3,000 will be subject to review by the grant Program Manager (or the Grant Committee lead, if a Program Manager has not yet been assigned) to ensure that the appropriate procurement method is utilized, all required documentation is obtained and retained, and compliance with all applicable procurement standards is verified prior to purchase or execution of any contract. Responsible Official – Ana Zavala, Chief Financial Officer Planned Corrective Actions – These corrective actions will be implemented immediately, with training completed by May 31, 2026. Criteria or specific requirement – Procurement, Suspension and Debarment (2 CFR 200.317 – 200.327; 2 CFR 180.220)
Criteria: Code of Federal Regulations, CFR 200.318-322, requires the non-Federal entity to have and use documented procurement procedures consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or sub-award. For “formal purchases,” those where the aggregate dollar amount is higher than the simplified acquisition threshold, sealed bids are publicly solicited through an invitation and a firm fixed-price contract (lump sum or unit price) is awarded to the responsible bidder whose bid conforms with all the material terms and conditions of the invitation and is the lowest in price. Condition: During our testing, we noted one contract that did not include documentation demonstrating that competitive bids were obtained. Additionally, there was no evidence that due diligence was performed to substantiate the vendor’s designation as a sole source, nor was there documentation indicating that no other vendors could meet the district’s needs. Context: The matter was found in one of the two samples we reviewed. Questioned Cost: There is no questioned cost associated with this non-compliance. Cause: District relied on a letter from the vendor, believing that this was a sole source. Effect: This resulted in one contract totaling $632,765 being awarded without competitive bidding documentation. Recommendation: We recommend that the District comply with 2 CFR, section 200.318-322, which requires that an LEA maintain the documented procedures for procurement transactions under a federal award. Views of Responsible Officials: We agree with the auditor’s comments, and the following actions have or will be taken to ensure the procurement of goods and services for the nutrition services department follows all applicable steps according to Title 2, Code of Federal Regulations (2 CFR) sections 200.317-200.327; Title7, Code of Federal Regulations (7 CFR), parts 210 and 220; and all applicable state and local rules: 1. During the school year 2024/2025, changes were made to staff to allow for additional oversight. A Procurement Specialist reporting directly to the Director of Purchasing was added to staff in lieu of a Buyer that had previously reported to the Director of Nutrition Services. This move allowed for an additional step to ensure proper procurement is happening. 2. All purchasing methods, including Micropurchase, Simplified Acquisition, and Formal, will be followed in accordance with all applicable regulations, in line with RUSD’s written procurement procedures. 3. Any noncompetitive procurement will only occur if the conditions outlined in applicable regulations are met and sufficient evidence and documentation is received and retained, including participating in performing due diligence to ascertain whether a single source document is accurate from any given vendor. 4. In addition, documented annual training will take place for all staff involved in the procurement process. This procedure includes a review and annual update of procurement procedures, if applicable, and an acknowledgement of the nutrition services code of conduct in regards to purchasing.
ESSER III - Grant Coding ALN 84.425U - EFS Section 1 - Elementary and Secondary Education - Grant # 213713 2122 - Grant Ending September 30, 2024 Condition and Criteria: 2 CFR 200.327 of the Uniform Guidance as well as the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) Audit Manual requires proper financial reporting, which would include the Final Expenditure Report (FER) to be an accurate and true representations of the expenditures for each project. During the current year testing, while total expenditures by funding source code matched the Final Expenditure Report (FER), we found multiple areas where function and/or object codes in the trial balance did not match up with those reported in the FER. Effect: The financial information reported in the FER was not an accurate reflection of how the District utilized the grant dollars. Cause: The FER was prepared prior to properly journalizing the approved activity into the grant. Context: Due to staffing changes during the year, Management did not realize that the activity had not been properly journalized into the correct grant accounts, but believed that all expenditures were approved and therefore submitted the FER based on the data available at the time. Questioned Costs: $0 Auditors' Recommendation: We recommend that management verify the accuracy of the coding of each transaction, documenting such coding on each invoice, and that management then compare the trial balance to the individual grant draws, each time a draw is made, prior to completing the trial balance for the audit, and prior to completing the annual FER. In addition, we recommend that when coding the transactions, management compare each transaction to the applicable grant application. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The District understands the issue and has contracted with a third party to help ensure that all activity is properly classified prior to draws being made and prior to the FER being submitted. Please see the attached Corrective Action Plan prepared by the District.
National Endowment for the Arts Federal Financial Assistance Listing 45.025, Affects all grant awards included under Federal Financial Assistance Listing 45.025 on the Schedule Promotion of the Arts Partnership Agreements Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control Over Compliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303(a) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award. 2 CFR 200.318 maintains that recipients must have and use documented procurement policies and must conform to procurement standards in sections 200.317 through 200.327. Condition: The Organization has documented procurement procedures that conform to applicable federal standards regarding testing vendors for suspension and debarment; however, the procedures were not followed for two vendors selected for testing. Cause: The Organization's internal control process did not identify the two vendors for whom the suspension and debarment verification was not performed. Effect: Payments could be made to recipients who were suspended or debarred. Questioned Costs: None reported. Context/Sampling: A nonstatistical sample of 4 transactions out of 14 total transactions were selected for testing. Two vendors did not have support showing the search for suspension and debarment was performed which accounted for $155,100 of $716,818 of federal awards. Repeat Finding from Prior Year(s): No Recommendation: We recommend the Organization enhance internal control procedures to ensure all suspension and debarment verification procedures are performed prior to entering into the transactions. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding. The Organization takes compliance with federal procurement requirements seriously and has already implemented additional internal controls to address this.
Assistance Listing Number, Federal Agency, and Program Name - 10.553 and 10.555, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Child Nutrition Cluster Federal Award Identification Number and Year - 241960, 251960, 241970, and 251970 Pass through Entity - Michigan Department of Education Finding Type - Significant deficiency Repeat Finding - No Criteria - The School District is required to have processes that comply with applicable procurement rules in the Uniform Guidance, including initial identification of those requirements and subsequent compliance per 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327, as well as contain required contract provisions for cost reimbursable contracts per the provisions in 7 CFR 210.21(f), 7 CFR 210.21(d)(3), and 7 CFR 220.16(d)(3). Condition The School District's internal controls did not effectively identify all of the required components necessary in formal solicitation documents for food service/cost reimbursable contracts and when using a third party entity (e.g., consortium) and did not utilize competitive procurement methods. Questioned Costs - None If Questioned Costs are Not Determinable, Description of Why Known Questioned Costs Were Undetermined or Otherwise Could Not Be Reported - N/A Identification of How Questioned Costs Were Computed - N/A Context- It was noted that the School District was not required to competitively bid any purchases during fiscal year 2025. Cause and Effect - Conducting solicitations or entering into contracts that do not follow the appropriate competitive procurement guidelines could result in the School District having an unallowable contract under the provisions of the grant and/or questioned costs. Recommendation - The School District should examine its processes and controls surrounding competitive procurement methods for the food service program to verify inclusions of the requirements under the Uniform Guidance. Views of Responsible Officials and Corrective Action Plan - As a result of a rotational School Nutrition Programs Procurement Review, as administered by the Office of School Nutrition Services within the Michigan Department of Education (MDE), general procurement findings were identified in the food service program. To address, the School District is revising its food service procurement documents to explicitly include all required contract provisions under the Uniform Guidance. The School District is also incorporating recent interpretations and guidance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), as communicated through MDE, particularly regarding cooperative purchasing and pricing structures for federal compliance. These actions are intended to strengthen the procurement controls to ensure all future food service contracts meet the compliance requirements of the Uniform Guidance and USDA regulations.
Assistance Listing, Federal Agency, and Program Name 84.027, 84.173, U.S. Department of Education, Special Education Cluster Federal Award Identification Number and Year 240450, 250450, 240460, and 250460 Pass through Entity Oakland County ISD Finding Type Material weakness and material noncompliance with laws and regulations Repeat Finding No Criteria The School District is required to have processes that comply with applicable procurement rules in the Uniform Guidance, including initial identification of those requirements and subsequent compliance per 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. Additionally, under Uniform Guidance (2 CFR §180.220), the School District is required to verify that the vendor they chose was not suspended or debarred Condition The School District's internal controls did not effectively identify the required formal solicitation. The School District did not utilize the appropriate competitive procurement methods and did not retain suspended or debarred verification documentation. Questioned Costs None If questioned costs are not determinable, description of why known questioned costs were undetermined or otherwise could not be reported N/A Identification of How Questioned Costs Were Computed N/A Context The School District has one vendor that represents all non payroll related expenditures charged to the grant. The School District was required to competitively bid out this contracted service during fiscal year 2025 as it exceeded the federal bid threshold. The School District did not bid the service and no documentation was maintained to support that the School District verified the vendor was not suspended or debarred. As of the audit testing date, the vendor was not suspended or debarred. Cause and Effect The School District accepted continued services with the current vendor, which was over the federal bid threshold, without conducting a formal bid process. The absence of a formal internal review of contracts over the bid threshold and the lack of review of suspended or debarred verification documentation, resulting in the School District being out of compliance for the two compliance requirements referenced. Recommendation The School District should institute controls to ensure that it is in compliance with both the procurement standards for competitive bids and the requirements related to suspension and debarment, including maintaining adequate related documentation. Views of Responsible Officials and Corrective Action Plan The School District will ensure that the proper procurement methods are adhered to, prior to executing future contracts. This includes also reviewing to ensure that vendors are not suspended or debarred, prior to awarding the contract. To accomplish this, the School District will use their grant budget process as a control for identifying the population of applicable expenditures that will be subject to procurement compliance requirements for federal programs.
Finding Number: 2025-001 Procurement Policy Federal Program: 20.205 Highway Planning and Construction Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.317–200.327, non-Federal entities are required to follow procurement standards that ensure full and open competition, proper documentation and compliance with the Uniform Guidance. Entities must update their written procurement policies to align with the most current Uniform Guidance requirements. Condition: During the audit procedures, it was identified the entity’s written procurement policy has not been updated to reflect the current requirements under 2 CFR 200. Cause: Management has not updated the written procurement policy since 2011 and was not aware of recent revisions to 2 CFR 200 procurement standards. Effect: An outdated policy increases the risk of noncompliance with federal procurement regulations. While our sample testing of procurement transactions did not identify instances of noncompliance, the absence of an updated policy could result in future procurement actions that do not comply with federal requirements. Questioned Costs: None. Recommendation: We recommend that management update its procurement policy to include all current requirements under 2 CFR 200 and implement a process to periodically review and revise the policy to remain compliant with future federal regulation changes. Views of Responsible Officials and Corrective Action Plan: Please see the Corrective Action Plan issued by the entity
FINDING 2025-002 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program for Children Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2023-2024, FY 2024-2025 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement. INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 17 PIKE COUNTY SCHOOL CORPORATION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) Procurement - Small Purchases Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at $250,000 unless a lower, more restrictive threshold is set by a nonfederal entity. As Indiana Code has set a more restrictive threshold of $150,000, the informal procurement method is permitted when the value of the procurement does not exceed $150,000. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds. Micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. A total of six claims were determined to require small purchase procedures. Of the six claims, totaling $334,605, four were selected for testing. For two of the four claims selected, the School Corporation did not obtain an adequate number of price or rate quotations. Additionally, documentation detailing the history of procurement, which must include the reason for the procurement method used, was absent for these two vendors. Suspension and Debarment Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the SAM exclusions, collecting a certification from that person, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. Upon inquiry, the School Corporation indicated that all service contracts contain a provision regarding suspension and debarment and that the contracts were reviewed and signed by a knowledgeable member of the School Corporation. A population of four covered transactions for goods or services totaling $306,482, all of which equaled or exceeded the $25,000 threshold paid from the Child Nutrition funds during the audit period, was identified and selected for testing. For two of the four selected transactions, the School Corporation did not verify that the vendor was not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or eligible for participation in federal assistance programs or activities prior to issuing payment. The lack of effective internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must: INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 18 PIKE COUNTY SCHOOL CORPORATION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ." 2 CFR 200.318 states in part: "(a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. . . . (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. . . ." 2 CFR 200.320 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or sub-award. (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: (2) Small purchases — (i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity." 2 CFR 180.300 states: "When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You do this by: (a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 19 PIKE COUNTY SCHOOL CORPORATION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person." Cause The School Corporation did not have adequate internal controls to ensure compliance with procurement and suspension and debarment requirements. The Food Service Director was unaware of specific federal requirements regarding procurement thresholds for small purchases and the mandatory verification of vendor suspension and debarment status for transactions exceeding $25,000. The Director relied solely on the Food Service Center to ensure compliance. In addition, the School Corporation utilized additional vendors outside of the center's management scope without independently verifying their compliance status. Effect The lack of an effective internal control system enabled material noncompliance to occur and remain undetected. Noncompliance with the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement could enable small purchases made by the School Corporation to be uncompetitive and could lead to contracting with vendors who are suspended or debarred from receiving federal grant funding. Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure there are appropriate procurement procedures for goods and services and contractors and subrecipients, as appropriate, are verified to not be suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into any contracts or subawards. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
Federal program information: Funding agency: U.S. Department of Treasury ALN Title: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds ALN number: 21.027 Award period and number: 7/23/2021 – 12/31/2024; SLFRP4454 Criteria or Specific Requirement: Uniform Guidance, 2 CFR Section 200.318(a) requires the City to have documented procurement procedures. The recipient or subrecipient must maintain and use documented procedures for procurement transactions under a Federal award or subaward, including for acquisition of property or services. These documented procurement procedures must be consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. Uniform Guidance, 2 CFR Section 200.318(c)(1), requires non-federal entities to maintain written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest for employees engaged in the selection, award, and administration of contracts. 2 CFR 200.321 requires affirmative steps to assure that minority businesses, women’s business enterprises, veteran-owned businesses, and labor surplus area firms are included in procurement opportunities. 2 CFR 200.318(i) requires recipients or subrecipients to maintain records sufficient to detail the history of each procurement, including rationale for selection, method, and price. Condition: Based on review of the City’s procurement policy (Public Contracting Rules), we noted that the policy does not incorporate all procurement requirements established in 2 CFR sections 200.317 through 200.326, as required by the Uniform Guidance for recipients of federal awards. Specifically, we observed the following areas of noncompliance or omissions: . The policy does not contain all written standards of conduct related to conflicts of interest as required by 2 CFR 200.318(c)(1); . The policy does not explicitly include requirements for taking affirmative steps to ensure that small, minority, women-owned, veteran-owned, and labor surplus area firms are solicited and considered in procurement opportunities, as required by 2 CFR 200.321(b); . The policy lacks explicit provisions to ensure that sufficient procurement records are maintained to detail the history of procurement transactions, as required by 2 CFR 200.318(i). Due to this, there is an increased risk that procurements funded by federal awards may not be conducted in full compliance with Uniform Guidance. Cause and Effect: The City’s procurement policy has not been fully updated to reflect all applicable procurement requirements of the Uniform Guidance. Procurements conducted under federal awards are at increased risk of noncompliance with Uniform Guidance requirements, which could result in findings, questioned costs, or potential repayment of federal funds. Furthermore, there is an increased risk that opportunities for small, minority, and women-owned businesses are not equitably considered and that procurement records may not be sufficient for federal review. Questioned Costs: None. Recommendation: We recommend that the City update its procurement policy and procedures to address the missing requirements under 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.326, specifically ensuring coverage of standards of conduct for conflicts of interest, affirmative steps for inclusion of targeted businesses, and comprehensive procurement recordkeeping. The City should ensure staff are trained on these updated requirements and monitor compliance for all federally funded procurements. Views of Responsible Officials: The City agrees with the findings as specified above. The procurement policy will be updated to reflect these changes.
NONCOMPLIANCE WITH PROCUREMENT, SUSPENSION & DEBARMENT REQUIREMENTS, CORONAVIRUS STATE AND LOCAL FISCAL RECOVERY FUNDS; AL No. 21.027, YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2025 Criteria: Per section 13 of Treasury’s Final Rule FAQs and 2 CFR 200.214, counties must comply with the procurement standards set forth in 2 CFR 200.318, through 2 CFR 200.327, when using their SLFRF award funds to procure goods and services to carry out the objectives of their SLFRF award. In addition, 2 CFR 200.214, prohibits recipients from using SLFRF funds to enter into subawards and contracts with parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs. Condition: The city did not verify that program recipients/participants were not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in the program. Cause: The city does not have procurement policies and procedures in place that allows it to comply with procurement standards outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Effect: Non-compliance with program terms and conditions. Questioned Costs: None Recommendation: Management should develop procedures that will provide reasonable assurance that procurement of goods and services are made in compliance with applicable federal regulations and other procurement requirements specific to a federal award or subaward, and that no subaward, contract, or agreement for purchase of goods or services is made with any suspended or debarred party. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective action: The government agrees with this finding and will adhere to the attached corrective action plan.
FINDING 2025-001 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program for Children, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 23/24, FY 24/25 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2023-002. Condition and Context The School Corporation had not properly designed or implemented a system of internal controls, which would include appropriate segregation of duties, to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement. Procurement Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at $250,000 unless a lower, more restrictive threshold is set by a nonfederal entity. As Indiana Code has set a more restrictive threshold of $150,000, informal procurement methods are permitted when the value of the procurement does not exceed $150,000. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds: micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase threshold but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. During the audit period, a total of four vendors were determined to require small purchase procedures, and all four vendors were selected for testing. For two of the four vendors, the School Corporation could not provide the procurement history or the rationale for the method of procurement, selection of vendors, and basis for price. The total dollar amount spent with these two vendors was $165,131. Suspension and Debarment Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the SAMs exclusions, collecting a certification from that vendor, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that vendor. INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 14 SOUTH SPENCER COUNTY SCHOOL CORPORATION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) During review of the School Corporation's procedures, officials stated that the Food Service Director verified that vendors were not suspended or debarred by including a clause in the vendor contract or by collecting a certification from the vendor prior to entering into a covered transaction. We identified ten transactions during the audit period that equaled or exceeded $25,000 and were therefore determined to be covered transactions. All ten transactions, totaling $767,259, were selected for testing. The School Corporation was unable to provide documentation that the vendor's suspension and debarment status was verified for four of these transactions, which comprised the same two vendors for both years of the audit period. The total dollar amount spent with these two vendors was $268,962. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ." 2 CFR 200.318 states in part: "(a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. . . . (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. . . ." 2 CFR 200.320 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or sub-award. INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 15 SOUTH SPENCER COUNTY SCHOOL CORPORATION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) (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: . . . (2) Small purchases– (i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ." 2 CFR 180.300 states: "When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You do this by: (a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person." Cause The School Corporation's corrective action plan from the prior audit stated that the Food Service Director was the individual responsible for implementing the corrective action measures and that those measures would be implemented in June 2024. The Food Service Director resigned, however, in May 2024. Therefore, the new Food Service Director was unaware of the compliance issues and the need to implement the corrective action measures during the current audit period. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. As a result, the School Corporation did not comply with the small purchase procurement requirements or the suspension and debarment requirements of the federal award. By not properly completing the procurement process, the School Corporation could have overpaid for the goods or services that were procured. Additionally, the School Corporation could have made payment to a vendor that was suspended or debarred. Payments to such vendors are unallowable. Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation. INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 16 SOUTH SPENCER COUNTY SCHOOL CORPORATION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure expenditures made from federal awards are in compliance with the procurement and suspension and debarment compliance requirements. The School Corporation's system of internal controls should be designed to ensure that the appropriate procurement method is utilized and that documentation is retained to support the procurement methods used in order to ensure compliance with the terms and conditions of the federal award. Additionally, the system should be designed to ensure that vendors are not suspended or debarred, or otherwise excluded, prior to the School Corporation entering into a covered transaction. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
Criteria: The Uniform Guidance requires that Organization have written procurement policies in place that comply with 2 CFR 200, Sections Subparts D and E. Condition: While testing compliance with 2 CFR 200, Sections Subparts D and E we found that management had not adopted the required procurement policies under 2 CFR Sections 200.318 – 200.327. Cause: Management does not regularly expend federal dollars above the threshold requiring a Single Audit under the Uniform Guidance. As such, policies related to procurement were not adopted. Effect: Internal controls surrounding Uniform Guidance are incomplete. Recommendation: Management should review 2 CFR Sections 200.138 – 300.327 and develop written policies that comply with the compliance requirements. Questioned Costs: None Management’s Response: Management has started incorporating 2 CFR Sections 200.138 – 300.327 into their current procurement policies and will adopt the policy changes in fiscal year 2026.
FEDERAL AWARD FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS 2025 – 002 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program Name: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) Assistance Listing Number: 84.027/84.173 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: H027A240007, 2025 Pass-Through Agency: Arizona Department of Education Pass-Through Number(s): 25ICSGBA-511469-01A Award Period: July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment under 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.327. Condition: For 1 of 4 vendor procurements tested we noted the transaction exceeded $10,000 and the district did not follow the competitive procurement guidelines per the district’s policy and uniform guidance 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.327. Questioned costs: Total of $13,360. Context: For 1 of 4 vendor procurements tested we identified the vendor transactions in the aggregate exceeded the district’s competitive bidding policy of $10,000, however the district did not follow the competitive bidding procedures and procure transactions in a manner providing full and open competition, in accordance with 2 CFR 200.319. Cause: The District did not have designated procedures in place to ensure vendor transactions were procured in accordance with competitive bidding policies and 2 CFR 200.319. Effect: The lack of adequate internal controls could result in noncompliance with uniform guidance. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: We recommend the district add internal controls over monitoring vendor purchases throughout the fiscal year and comparing to procurement policies to ensure proper procedures are followed. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
2025-001 U.S. Department of Education, Assistance Listing #84.027/84.173 Special Education Cluster (IDEA) Program and U.S. Department of Treasury, Assistance Listing #21.027 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLRF) Program for the period of July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025 Criteria: Uniform Guidance section 2 CFR §200.317-200.327 Procurement Standards, requires purchases exceeding the micro-purchase threshold of $10,000 to follow small purchase procedures, which require obtaining price or rate quotations from an adequate number of qualified sources (§200.320) prior to entering into a contract. In addition, 2 CFR Part 180 and 2 CFR §200.214 require non-federal entities to verify if contractors are suspended or debarred (e.g., Sam.gov check or certification) and include appropriate contract clauses in applicable contracts. Condition: The School Department did not obtain price or rate quotations for two projects that exceeded the micro-purchase threshold. Additionally, the Department did not perform, or document required suspension and debarment procedures for the contractor (e.g., verification against SAM.gov, obtaining certifications, or including contract clauses). The City did not perform, or document required suspension and debarment procedures for the contractor (e.g., verification against SAM.gov, obtaining certifications, or including contract clauses) for three of the six contracts tested. Cause: School staff were not aware the projects would be funded with federal funds and did not ensure compliance with federal requirements for competitive pricing and suspension/debarment verification. City staff were not aware projects covered under the SLRF definition of “revenue replacement”, which excludes most procurement requirements, are still required to follow 2 CFR Part 180 and 2 CFR §200.214. Effect: Failure to obtain competitive quotes and verify contractor eligibility to receive Federal funds increases the risk of noncompliance, inefficient use of federal funds, and potential disallowance of costs. Known Questioned Costs: $61,891 for #84.027/84.173; $51,750 for #21.027 Likely Questioned Costs: $12,799 for #21.027 Recommendation: We recommend training staff on procurement and suspension/debarment requirements and implementing a pre-award compliance checklist. We also recommend increasing communication between grant personnel and facilities management personnel so all parties are aware which projects will be funded with federal funds.
Assistance Listing Number, Federal Agency, and Program Name - ALN 66.202, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Congressionally Mandated Projects Federal Award Identification Number and Year - CG-00E03697-0, 2024 Pass through Entity - N/A Finding Type - Material weakness and material noncompliance with laws and regulations Repeat Finding - No Criteria - Per 2 CFR 200.319(d), the recipient is required to maintain a written procurement policy that adheres to procurement standards and requirements specified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 2 CFR 200.327. Per 2 CFR 200.305, the recipient is required to maintain a written cash management policy that addresses the requirements of the aforementioned code section. Condition - The Village did not have written policies for cash management or procurement that adhered to the requirements of the Uniform Guidance. Questioned Costs - None If Questioned Costs are Not Determinable, Description of Why Known Questioned Costs Were Undetermined or Otherwise Could Not Be Reported - N/A Identification of How Questioned Costs Were Computed - N/A Context - While the Village has written policies in place to address procurement and cash management, the policies do not address the requirements of 2 CFR 200.317 through 2 CFR 200.327 and of 2 CFR 200.305, respectively. Cause and Effect - The Village was not in compliance with grant requirements related to procurement and cash management, nor did it have proper controls in place to ensure these policies had the required elements. The absence of these requirements in the Village's policies increases the potential for further noncompliance because the Village's procedures may not adequately address relevant compliance requirements. Recommendation - We recommend that the Village create and put in place a procurement policy that addresses the requirements of 2 CFR 200.317 through 2 CFR 200.327 and a cash management policy that addresses the requirements of 2 CFR 200.305. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions - The Village is currently reviewing existing policies to determine the best course of action and updating them for compliance. Some updates may require voter approval, as certain provisions are in the village charter.
FINDING 2025-002 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2024, FY2025 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Condition and Context An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement. INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 15 CLOVERDALE COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) Procurement Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at $150,000 per Indiana Code. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds: micro-purchases, typically for those purchases of $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase threshold but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. The School Corporation had not designed or implemented adequate policies or procedures to ensure that proper procurement procedures for small purchases were followed. The School Corporation did not obtain price or rate quotes from multiple vendors for its audit period expenditures with each of the three vendors tested in the small purchases category. Documentation detailing the history of procurement, including rationale to limit competition at the time of the expenditure(s) was not provided for audit. Suspension and Debarment Nonfederal entities and contractors are subject to nonprocurement debarment and suspension regulations. These regulations restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or are ineligible for participation in federal assistance programs or activities. This is done by checking SAM Exclusions, collecting a certification from that entity, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that entity. The School Corporation had not designed or implemented adequate policies or procedures to ensure that applicable vendors who received federal funds over certain thresholds were not suspended or debarred from participating in federal awards programs. There were three vendors subject to suspension and debarment requirements during the audit period that were not procured through the School Corporation's affiliated Educational Services Center for cooperative purchasing. The School Corporation did not perform procedures to ensure the vendors were not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in federal assistance programs or activities for one of these three vendors. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. Noncompliance was isolated to small purchases for procurement and one vendor noted for suspension and debarment. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ." INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 16 CLOVERDALE COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) 2 CFR 200.318 states in part: "(a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. . . . (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. . . ." 2 CFR 200.320 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or sub-award. . . . (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: . . . (2) Small Purchases– (i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ." 2 CFR 200.214 states: "Non-Federal entities are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities." 2 CFR 180.300 states: "When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You do this by: (a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 17 CLOVERDALE COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person." Cause Management had not developed nor implemented an effective system of internal controls that would have ensured compliance with the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement. The Food Service Director indicated that some of these purchases may have been emergency situations but was unaware of the need to document the rationale at the time of the transaction if competition was limited for small purchases procurements. Effect The lack of an internal control system enabled material noncompliance to occur and remain undetected. Noncompliance with the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement could enable small purchases made by the School Corporation to be uncompetitive and could lead to contracting with vendors who are suspended or debarred from receiving federal grant funding. Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss of future federal funds to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended the School Corporation's management strengthen its system of internal controls over small purchase requirements to ensure that an adequate number of price or rate quotes are obtained before purchase. Additionally, if procurements are made in emergency or extenuating circumstances, documentation at the time of the transaction must be retained for audit to justify limiting competition. We also recommended that vendors with a single or aggregate transaction amounts of $25,000 per fiscal year are verified for suspension and debarment prior to entering into the transaction and/or contract. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
CRITERIA THE UNIFORM ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS, COST PRINCIPLES, AND AUDIT REQUIREMENTS FOR FEDERAL AWARDS (UNIFORM GUIDANCE), SPECIFICALLY 2 CFR §200.317–200.327, REQUIRE NON-FEDERAL ENTITIES TO FOLLOW DOCUMENTED PROCUREMENT PROCEDURES THAT ENSURE FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION. WHEN USING COOPERATIVE OR COLLABORATIVE PROCUREMENT ARRANGEMENTS, THE DISTRICT MUST ENSURE THAT PURCHASES ARE MADE WITHIN THE VALID TERM OF THE UNDERLYING CONTRACT AND THAT CONTRACT EXTENSIONS OR RENEWALS ARE PERMITTED UNDER THE ORIGINAL PROCUREMENT AND PROPERLY EXECUTED. CONDITION THE DISTRICT CONTINUED TO PROCURE GOODS AND/OR SERVICES FROM A VENDOR THAT WAS ORIGINALLY AWARDED THROUGH A COLLABORATIVE PROCUREMENT AFTER THE EXPIRATION OF THE ORIGINAL BID TERM. THE CONTINUED USE OF THE VENDOR WAS NOT SUPPORTED BY A VALID CONTRACT EXTENSION OR REBID IN ACCORDANCE WITH PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS APPLICABLE TO FEDERAL AWARDS. AS A RESULT, PURCHASES CHARGED TO THE FEDERAL PROGRAM WERE MADE OUTSIDE THE ALLOWABLE TERM OF THE COMPETITIVELY PROCURED AGREEMENT. CAUSE MANAGEMENT DID NOT IMPLEMENT ADEQUATE PROCEDURES TO MONITOR THE EXPIRATION DATES AND ALLOWABLE TERMS OF COLLABORATIVE PROCUREMENT AGREEMENTS USED FOR FEDERAL EXPENDITURES. ADDITIONALLY, THE DISTRICT RELIED ON HISTORICAL PURCHASING PRACTICES WITHOUT VERIFYING ONGOING COMPLIANCE WITH UNIFORM GUIDANCE PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS. EFFECT THE DISTRICT DID NOT COMPLY WITH FEDERAL PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS, RESULTING IN EXPENDITURES THAT MAY NOT HAVE BEEN MADE UNDER FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION AS REQUIRED. THIS NONCOMPLIANCE INCREASES THE RISK THAT FEDERAL FUNDS WERE EXPENDED IN A MANNER INCONSISTENT WITH FEDERAL REGULATIONS. QUESTIONED COSTS NONE IDENTIFIED. THE PRICING WAS CONSISTENT WITH THE PRIOR CONTRACT TERMS. REPEAT FINDING NO. RECOMMENDATION WE RECOMMEND THAT MANAGEMENT STRENGTHEN PROCUREMENT CONTROLS BY: • IMPLEMENTING PROCEDURES TO TRACK CONTRACT AND BID EXPIRATION DATES, INCLUDING COLLABORATIVE PROCUREMENT AGREEMENTS; • ENSURING THAT ALL PROCUREMENTS CHARGED TO FEDERAL AWARDS ARE SUPPORTED BY VALID CONTRACTS WITHIN APPROVED TERMS; AND • PROVIDING TRAINING TO STAFF RESPONSIBLE FOR PROCUREMENT AND ACCOUNTS PAYABLE ON FEDERAL PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Direct Funding FFAL# 97.083 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Cash Management, Reporting Significant Deficiency in Internal Control Criteria: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.302, non-Federal entities must establish and maintain effective internal controls over Federal award compliance, including controls over cash management and Federal financial and performance reporting. Additionally, 2 CFR 200.327–200.329 require accurate, complete, and timely submission of performance and financial reports. Condition: The City did not have adequate internal controls to ensure the accuracy, completeness, and proper authorization of submissions to the Federal agency. Specifically: 1. Financial and performance reports submitted to the Federal agency did not undergo a secondary (independent) review prior to submission. 2. Reimbursement requests submitted to the Federal agency did not undergo a secondary (independent) review prior to submission. Cause: The City has not implemented or enforced a formalized review process that requires supervisory-level approval prior to the submission of reports or reimbursement requests. Effect: Without a secondary review, there is an increased risk that inaccurate, incomplete, or unsupported information may be submitted to the Federal agency. This could result in: • Reporting errors or omissions, • Noncompliance with Federal requirements, • Potential questioned costs, and • Increased risk of funding delays or corrective action requirements. Questioned Costs: None to report Context/Sampling: Out of a total population of three reports and reimbursement requests, three were selected for testing. Repeat Finding from Prior Years: No. Recommendation: We recommend that the City design and implement formal internal controls requiring documented secondary review and approval for all financial and performance reports, and all reimbursement requests submitted to Federal agencies. Views of Responsible Officials: Agree.
Finding No. 2025-002: Reporting – Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance Agency: Economic Development Administration ALN: 11.307 Federal Award Identification Number: ED22HDQ3070127 Criteria: Under the Committee of Sponsoring Organization framework, control activities are established through policies and procedures that help ensure that management’s directives to mitigate risks to the achievement of objectives are carried out. Segregation of duties is typically built into the selection and development of control activities. Furthermore, according to Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200, Uniform Administration Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance), sections 200.327 and 200.328, recipients of federal awards are required to submit performance and financial reports by the due dates specified in the terms and conditions of the federal award. Context and Condition: There was an overall lack of segregation of duties surrounding the preparation and submission of reports to the awarding agency as the member of management performed this function with no review and approval for the period from July 2024 through March 2025. In addition, three of the four reports selected and tested were not submitted by the reporting due dates. Cause: The District failed to maintain a system of controls and procedures to ensure segregation of duties and appropriate review and approval process as well as submission within the required reporting timeframes. Effect: Due to the lack of adequate review and oversight over grant reporting and failure to submit required reports within the required dates may result in the District being noncompliant with 2 CFR 200.327 and 200.328. Repeat Finding: Yes, previously reported under ALN 17.289 Recommendation: We recommend that the District establish internal controls and procedures to incorporate segregation of duties and ensure that all reporting requirements are being adhered to and the reports are being submitted within the specified due dates. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action: See attached corrective action plan. Questioned Costs: None
Federal Agency: Department of Treasury Federal Program: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Assistance Listing Number: 21.027 Pass-Through Agency: Wood County ADAMH Board Award Period: May 8, 2024 – September 29, 2026 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control Over Compliance and Other Matter Criteria or Specific Requirement: Uniform Guidance (2 CFR Part 200.510) provides requirements over procurement and suspension & debarment for grantees when entering into contracts funded by federal programs. Questioned Costs: None Condition: No suspension and debarment exclusion check was performed for one of the two contractors paid with funds under the federal program. Cause: No formal procurement and suspension and debarment policies were in place for the year under audit. Context: Of the two contracts entered into for the program, suspension and debarment checks were not performed for one of the two contractors. Effect: Federal funds could have been paid to a federally suspended and debarred entity. Per review of the federal suspension and debarred list, both entities contracted with under the grant are not suspended or debarred. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: Implementation of a formal procurement and suspension and debarment policy that includes procedures over review of the federal suspension and debarred listing, that is in compliance with the Uniform Guidance. Procurement policy should include general procurement standards as described by the Uniform Guidance, that include standards on conduct covering conflicts of interest; method of procurement for micro-purchases, small purchases, sealed bids, and proposals; and all other criteria as outlined in 2CFR 200.318 through 200.327. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management will develop and implement a procurement policy that is in compliance with the Uniform Guidance.
2025-005 – Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls over Compliance and Noncompliance – Procurement US Department of Agriculture / Oregon Department of Human Services / Farmers Market Fund Federal Assistance Listing Number: 10.565, 10.568, 10.569, 10.182 Federal Program Name: Food Distribution Cluster and Local Food Purchase Agreements Criteria – 2 CFR §200.317 to 327 – Procurement Standards. The recipient or subrecipient must maintain and use documented procedures for procurement transactions under a Federal award or subaward, including for acquisition of property or services. These documented procurement procedures must be consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards identified in §200.317 through §200.327. Condition/context – The Organization’s procurement policy that complied with Federal regulations was implemented in October 2024. Procurements before this date did not have sufficient documentation as to the significant history of procurements that would show compliance with the policy. We observed that the Organization awarded contracts to vendors but did not have a procurement policy that matched Federal procurement standards. Questioned costs – None reported. Cause/effect – The Organization did not have policies or controls throughout the whole year to ensure compliance with Federal regulations regarding procurements. Documentation as to the significant history of procurements, including from vendors, was not available to show compliance with procurement standards. Repeat finding – Yes, prior year finding 2024-005. Recommendation – The Organization should develop a procurement policy that matches Federal procurement standards and internal controls to ensure the policy is followed. The Organization should also retain documentation as to the significant history of procurements to show that the procurement policy was followed. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions – Oregon Food Bank acknowledges this repeat finding and agrees with the auditors' assessment. Ben Ardell, Director of Finance, is the party responsible. Since the prior audit period, management has taken steps to review and revise OFB’s procurement policy and procedures, in alignment with federal procurement standards. Finance will continue implementing the corrective actions and establishing the internal controls to ensure adherence to the policy, retaining documentation of the procurement process to demonstrate compliance. These recent and planned improvements will enhance transparency, strengthen accountability, and reduce compliance risk, ensuring a more efficient and well-documented procurement process that supports the organization’s long-term financial integrity and operational effectiveness. The anticipated completion date remains June 30, 2026.
2025-002 – Procurement, Suspension & Debarment Federal Program Information: U.S. Department of Agriculture Passed through the State of Maine Department of Education: ALN 10.553,10.555, 10.559 & 10.579 Child Nutrition Cluster Criteria: The following CFR(s) apply to this finding: 2 CFR 200.317-200.327 Condition: During audit procedures, it was identified that the Unit did not follow policies and procedures. Cause: The Unit did not understand the procurement requirements for the program. Effect: Insufficient controls could result in unallowable expenses being charged to the program and subsequently improperly reimbursed by federal funds Identification of Questioned Costs: None identified. Context: During audit procedures, auditor requested copies of the contracts and procurement history files, none could be provided. This is not a statistically valid sample. Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: It is recommended that the Unit familiarize themselves with the program requirements and implement the internal control policies and procedures that have already been adopted by the Unit. Views of Responsible Officials and Corrective Action Plan: Please see the Corrective Action Plan issued by the Regional School Unit No. 29.
FINDING 2025-001 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program for Children Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2023-24, FY 2024-25 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters Repeat Finding This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit report. The prior audit finding number was 2023-002. Condition and Context An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement. Procurement Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for property or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is set at $250,000 unless a lower, more restrictive threshold is set by a nonfederal entity. The State of Indiana has established a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 for informal procurement methods. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds: micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase threshold but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Small purchase procedures require that price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources or have documented reasoning to support a single source provider. Two vendors were identified that were paid $27,726 and $70,168, respectively, during the audit period using federal funds under the award, thereby requiring small purchase procedures for both procurements. Both vendors were selected for testing. The School Corporation was unable to provide any documentation for the vendor that was paid $70,168 that the procurement method used was appropriate or that the procurement provided full and open competition or rationale to support the determination to limit competition. Additionally, the history of procurement, including the rationale for the method of procurement, selection of the vendor, and the basis for the price, was not adequately documented for the vendor. INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 16 WASHINGTON COMMUNITY SCHOOLS, INC. SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) Suspension and Debarment Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients are required to verify that vendors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from receiving federal funds. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods and services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000. The verification is to be done by checking the Excluded Parties List System (EPLS), collecting a certification from that vendor, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that vendor. Four covered transactions that equaled or exceeded $25,000 were identified. All four transactions totaling $4,082,816 were selected for testing. For two of the four vendors, the School Corporation did not verify the vendor's suspension and debarment status prior to entering into the covered transaction with either vendor. The amount paid to both vendors totaled $97,894. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ." 2 CFR 200.318 states in part: "(a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. . . . (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. . . ." 2 CFR 200.320 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must have and use document procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or sub-award. INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 17 WASHINGTON COMMUNITY SCHOOLS, INC. SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) (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: . . . (2) Small purchases– (i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . . (b) Noncompetitive procurement. There are specific circumstances in which noncompetitive procurement can be used. Noncompetitive procurement can only be awarded if one or more of the following circumstances apply: (1) The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which does not exceed the micro-purchase threshold (see paragraph (a)(1) of this section); (2) The item is available only from a single source; (3) The public exigency or emergency for the requirement will not permit a delay resulting from publicizing a competitive solicitation; (4) The Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity expressly authorizes a noncompetitive procurement in response to a written request from the non-Federal entity; or (5) After solicitation of a number of sources, competition is determined inadequate." 2 CFR 180.300 states: "When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You do this by: (a) Checking the SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person." Cause The School Corporation did not have adequate internal controls to ensure compliance with procurement and suspension and debarment requirements. The School Corporation was aware of the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement and relied on its food service management company to ensure compliance. There was not sufficient oversight by the School Corporation to ensure proper procedures were followed. INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 18 WASHINGTON COMMUNITY SCHOOLS, INC. SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) Effect The lack of an effective internal control system enabled material noncompliance to occur and remain undetected. Noncompliance with the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement could enable small purchases made by the School Corporation to be uncompetitive and could lead to contracting with vendors who are suspended or debarred from receiving federal grant funding. Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirement could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure that there are appropriate procurement procedures for goods and services and that contractors and subrecipients, as appropriate, are verified to not be suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded prior to entering into any contracts or subawards. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2025-001 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program for Children Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 2024, FY 2025 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Other Matters Condition and Context An effective internal control system, which would include segregation of duties, was not in place at the School Corporation in order to ensure compliance with requirements related to the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement. Adequate internal controls were not in place over procurements made under the simplified acquisition threshold for one of two vendors tested during the audit period. The School Corporation made purchases with a vendor in fiscal year 2023-2024 totaling $289,127, but it did not provide audit evidence that methods and procedures performed for the selection of the vendor aligned with requirements related to vendors procured under the simplified acquisition threshold. Adequate internal controls were not in place over procurements made under the small purchase threshold for one of five vendors tested during the audit period. The School Corporation made purchases with a vendor in 2023-2024 totaling $103,519 and in 2024-2025 totaling $111,613, but it did not provide audit evidence that the procurement procedures performed in relation to the award had been reviewed or approved. The School Corporation did not provide documentation that it had entered into a contract with the vendor during either year of the audit period. The lack of internal controls was a systemic issue throughout the audit period. The noncompliance was isolated to procurement requirements. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ." INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 18 METROPOLITAN SCHOOL DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) 2 CFR 200.318(a): "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non- Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327." 2 CFR 200.320 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or sub-award. (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) . . . (iv) Non-Federal entity increase to the micro-purchase threshold up to $50,000. Non-Federal entities may establish a threshold higher than the micro-purchase threshold identified in the FAR in accordance with the requirements of this section. The non-Federal entity may self-certify a threshold up to $50,000 on an annual basis and must maintain documentation to be made available to the Federal awarding agency and auditors in accordance with § 200.334. The self-certification must include a justification, clear identification of the threshold, and supporting documentation of any of the following: (A) A qualification as a low-risk auditee, in accordance with the criteria in § 200.520 for the most recent audit; (B) An annual internal institutional risk assessment to identify, mitigate, and manage financial risks; or, (C) For public institutions, a higher threshold consistent with State law. . . . (b) Formal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or services under a Federal financial assistance award exceeds the SAT, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal procurement methods are required. Formal procurement methods require following documented procedures. Formal procurement methods also require public advertising unless a non-competitive procurement can be used in accordance with § 200.319 or paragraph (c) of this section. The following formal methods of procurement are used for procurement of property or services above the simplified acquisition threshold or a value below the simplified acquisition threshold the non-Federal entity determines to be appropriate: INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 19 METROPOLITAN SCHOOL DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) (1) Sealed bids. A procurement method in which bids are publicly solicited and a firm fixed-price contract (lump sum or unit price) is awarded to the responsible bidder whose bid, conforming with all the material terms and conditions of the invitation for bids, is the lowest in price. The sealed bids method is the preferred method for procuring construction, if the conditions. (i) In order for sealed bidding to be feasible, the following conditions should be present: (A) A complete, adequate, and realistic specification or purchase description is available; (B) Two or more responsible bidders are willing and able to compete effectively for the business; and (C) The procurement lends itself to a firm fixed price contract and the selection of the successful bidder can be made principally on the basis of price. (ii) If sealed bids are used, the following requirements apply: (A) Bids must be solicited from an adequate number of qualified sources, providing them sufficient response time prior to the date set for opening the bids, for local, and tribal governments, the invitation for bids must be publicly advertised; (B) The invitation for bids, which will include any specifications and pertinent attachments, must define the items or services in order for the bidder to properly respond; (C) All bids will be opened at the time and place prescribed in the invitation for bids, and for local and tribal governments, the bids must be opened publicly; (D) A firm fixed price contract award will be made in writing to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. Where specified in bidding documents, factors such as discounts, transportation cost, and life cycle costs must be considered in determining which bid is lowest. Payment discounts will only be used to determine the low bid when prior experience indicates that such discounts are usually taken advantage of; and (E) Any or all bids may be rejected if there is a sound documented reason. (2) Proposals. A procurement method in which either a fixed price or costreimbursement type contract is awarded. Proposals are generally used when conditions are not appropriate for the use of sealed bids. They are awarded in accordance with the following requirements: (i) Requests for proposals must be publicized and identify all evaluation factors and their relative importance. Proposals must be solicited from an adequate number of qualified offerors. Any response to publicized requests for proposals must be considered to the maximum extent practical; INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 20 METROPOLITAN SCHOOL DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) (ii) The non-Federal entity must have a written method for conducting technical evaluations of the proposals received and making selections; (iii) Contracts must be awarded to the responsible offeror whose proposal is most advantageous to the non-Federal entity, with price and other factors considered; and (iv) The non-Federal entity may use competitive proposal procedures for qualifications based procurement of architectural/engineering (A/E) professional services whereby offeror's qualifications are evaluated and the most qualified offeror is selected, subject to negotiation of fair and reasonable compensation. The method, where price is not used as a selection factor, can only be used in procurement of A/E professional services. It cannot be used to purchase other types of services though A/E firms that are a potential source to perform the proposed effort. . . ." Cause Staff responsible for purchasing were not adequately trained on the School Corporation's procurement policy for obtaining bids for purchases above the simplified acquisition threshold and formal contract requirements for purchases above $50,000. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the School Corporation cannot ensure that contractors paid under the small purchase and simplified acquisition methods were awarded the best price for their services. This could result in federal funding not providing as many services or projects as possible. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that the School Corporation strengthen its system of internal controls to ensure the proper procurement method is followed and documentation is retained. We also recommended strengthening its policies and procedures to ensure that appropriate audit evidence is retained for audit. Views of Responsible Official For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
FINDING 2025-005 Subject: Special Education Cluster (IDEA) - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Programs: Special Education Grants to States, COVID-19 - Special Education Grants to States, Special Education Preschool Grants, COVID-19 - Special Education Preschool Grants Assistance Listings Numbers: 84.027, 84.027X, 84.173, 84.173X Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-056-PN01, 22611-056-ARP, 22619-056-PN01, 22619-056-ARP Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Material Weakness, Modified Opinion Repeat Finding This is a similar finding from the immediately prior audit reports. The prior audit finding numbers were 2021-002 and 2023-003. Condition and Context Procurement - Small Purchases Federal regulations allow for informal procurement methods when the value of the procurement for goods or services does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, which is customarily set at $250,000. However, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold of $150,000 or less for when small purchase procedures may be used. This informal process allows for methods other than the formal bid process. The informal process is divided between two methods based on thresholds: micro-purchases, typically for those purchases $10,000 or under, and small purchase procedures for those purchases above the micro-purchase threshold, but below the simplified acquisition threshold. Micro-purchases may be awarded without soliciting competitive price rate quotations. If small purchase procedures are used, then price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. If it is determined a single source provider can be used for a small purchase, documentation must be retained supporting the determination. There were 23 vendors identified that fell within the small purchase's threshold. Of those vendors, 4 were selected for testing. For each of those 4 vendors tested that fell within the small purchases threshold, the School Corporation did not obtain an adequate number of price or rate quotations to ensure the procurements provided full and open competition. In addition, history of the procurements which would include the rationale for the method of procurement, selection of the vendor, and basis for price was not documented. INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 28 METROPOLITAN SCHOOL DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) Procurement - Simplified Acquisition When the value of the procurement for property or services exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT), or a lower threshold established by a nonfederal entity, formal procurement methods are required. The SAT is typically set at $250,000; however, Indiana Code 5-22-8 has a more restrictive threshold, and, therefore, the threshold the SAT is set at $150,000. Formal procurement methods require adherence to documented procedures and formal methods such as sealed bids or proposals. One vendor was identified that fell within the SAT, with total purchases of $165,816. Sealed bids or competitive proposals were not obtained, nor was a circumstance met that would have allowed for a noncompetitive procurement for the purchases. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic issues throughout the audit period. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ." 2 CFR 200.318 states in part: "(a) The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. . . . (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. . . ." 2 CFR 200.320 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and §§ 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or sub-award. INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 29 METROPOLITAN SCHOOL DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) (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: . . . (2) Small purchases— (i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity. . . ." Cause A proper system of internal controls was not in place to ensure that bids were solicited before entering into a contract or that quotes were obtained. The School Corporation was unaware of the requirement to solicit bids for contracts that exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. Additionally, they were unaware of the requirement to obtain an adequate number of quotes for purchases that exceeded the small purchase threshold. Effect Without the proper implementation of an effectively designed system of internal controls, the internal control system cannot be capable of effectively preventing, or detecting and correcting, material noncompliance. As a result, procurement procedures for goods and services were not adhered to for procurements that fell within the small purchase threshold. Noncompliance with the provisions of federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award could result in the loss of future federal funding to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls and develop policies and procedures to ensure there are appropriate procurement procedures for goods for small purchases and simplified acquisition purchases. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.
Department of Housing and Urban Development Continuum of Care, Federal Financial Assistance Listing 14.267, Affects all grant awards included under Federal Financial Assistance Listing 14.267 on the Schedule Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control Over Compliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303(a) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award. 2 CFR 200.318 maintains that recipients must have and use documented procurement policies and must conform to procurement standards in sections 200.317 through 200.327. Condition: Catholic Charities has documented procurement and suspension and debarment procedures that conform to applicable federal standards regarding procurement and testing vendors for suspension and debarment; however, the procedures were not followed for four vendors selected for testing for procurement and one for suspension and debarment. Cause: Catholic Charities did not have adequate internal controls in place to ensure that the processes laid out in their procurement policy regarding the process of obtaining quotes to support procurement and testing vendors for suspension and debarment were followed. Effect: Payments could be made to vendors who have higher costs than other vendors or who were suspended or debarred. Questioned Costs: None reported. Context/Sampling: A nonstatistical sample of 17 vendors out of 83 total transactions were selected for testing, which accounted for $81,494 of $681,188 federal program expenditures. Repeat Finding from Prior Year(s): Yes, 2024-002 Recommendation: We recommend Catholic Charities enhance internal control procedures to ensure all procurement and suspension and debarment verification procedures are performed prior to entering into the transactions. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding.