Reference Number: 2022-001 Prior Year Finding: Yes – 2021-001 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through Agency: Various Federal Program: Emergency Solutions Grant Program ALN Number: 14.231 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Material Weakness, Noncompliance Criteria or specific requirement: As per § 200.318 General procurement standards. (a) The Non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. (d) The Non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Condition: Based on our review of the Procurement compliance requirements, we noted that the Division has written procurement policies and competitive policies as required by CFR § 200.318 General procurement standards. We selected five (5) vendors for procurement Suspension and Debarment compliance testing of total population of 5 vendors subject to procurement and we were not provided with Procurement comparative bids therefore, we were unable: • To verify that the procurement method used was appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. • To Verify that procurements provide full and open competition (2 CFR section 200.319 and 48 CFR section 52.244-5). Cause: The Division did not ensured that as a non-Federal entity must have and must use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local laws and regulations and the standards of §§ 200.318 through 200.327, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. Effect: The funding agency can reject the expenditures incurred by the Division on certain vendors where the Division must use procurement method appropriately based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. Questioned costs: Cannot be determined Recommendation: We recommend that the Division must: • Use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local, laws and regulations and the standards, for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. • The Division must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records should 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. Views of responsible officials: The Division will work with Territorial Headquarters to document procedures as outlined in the Recommendations above. See corrective action plan.
Reference Number: 2022-001 Prior Year Finding: Yes – 2021-001 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through Agency: Various Federal Program: Emergency Solutions Grant Program ALN Number: 14.231 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Material Weakness, Noncompliance Criteria or specific requirement: As per § 200.318 General procurement standards. (a) The Non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. (d) The Non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Condition: Based on our review of the Procurement compliance requirements, we noted that the Division has written procurement policies and competitive policies as required by CFR § 200.318 General procurement standards. We selected five (5) vendors for procurement Suspension and Debarment compliance testing of total population of 5 vendors subject to procurement and we were not provided with Procurement comparative bids therefore, we were unable: • To verify that the procurement method used was appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. • To Verify that procurements provide full and open competition (2 CFR section 200.319 and 48 CFR section 52.244-5). Cause: The Division did not ensured that as a non-Federal entity must have and must use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local laws and regulations and the standards of §§ 200.318 through 200.327, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. Effect: The funding agency can reject the expenditures incurred by the Division on certain vendors where the Division must use procurement method appropriately based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. Questioned costs: Cannot be determined Recommendation: We recommend that the Division must: • Use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local, laws and regulations and the standards, for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. • The Division must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records should 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. Views of responsible officials: The Division will work with Territorial Headquarters to document procedures as outlined in the Recommendations above. See corrective action plan.
Reference Number: 2022-001 Prior Year Finding: Yes – 2021-001 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through Agency: Various Federal Program: Emergency Solutions Grant Program ALN Number: 14.231 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Material Weakness, Noncompliance Criteria or specific requirement: As per § 200.318 General procurement standards. (a) The Non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. (d) The Non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Condition: Based on our review of the Procurement compliance requirements, we noted that the Division has written procurement policies and competitive policies as required by CFR § 200.318 General procurement standards. We selected five (5) vendors for procurement Suspension and Debarment compliance testing of total population of 5 vendors subject to procurement and we were not provided with Procurement comparative bids therefore, we were unable: • To verify that the procurement method used was appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. • To Verify that procurements provide full and open competition (2 CFR section 200.319 and 48 CFR section 52.244-5). Cause: The Division did not ensured that as a non-Federal entity must have and must use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local laws and regulations and the standards of §§ 200.318 through 200.327, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. Effect: The funding agency can reject the expenditures incurred by the Division on certain vendors where the Division must use procurement method appropriately based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. Questioned costs: Cannot be determined Recommendation: We recommend that the Division must: • Use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local, laws and regulations and the standards, for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. • The Division must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records should 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. Views of responsible officials: The Division will work with Territorial Headquarters to document procedures as outlined in the Recommendations above. See corrective action plan.
Reference Number: 2022-001 Prior Year Finding: Yes – 2021-001 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through Agency: Various Federal Program: Emergency Solutions Grant Program ALN Number: 14.231 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Material Weakness, Noncompliance Criteria or specific requirement: As per § 200.318 General procurement standards. (a) The Non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. (d) The Non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Condition: Based on our review of the Procurement compliance requirements, we noted that the Division has written procurement policies and competitive policies as required by CFR § 200.318 General procurement standards. We selected five (5) vendors for procurement Suspension and Debarment compliance testing of total population of 5 vendors subject to procurement and we were not provided with Procurement comparative bids therefore, we were unable: • To verify that the procurement method used was appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. • To Verify that procurements provide full and open competition (2 CFR section 200.319 and 48 CFR section 52.244-5). Cause: The Division did not ensured that as a non-Federal entity must have and must use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local laws and regulations and the standards of §§ 200.318 through 200.327, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. Effect: The funding agency can reject the expenditures incurred by the Division on certain vendors where the Division must use procurement method appropriately based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. Questioned costs: Cannot be determined Recommendation: We recommend that the Division must: • Use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local, laws and regulations and the standards, for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. • The Division must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records should 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. Views of responsible officials: The Division will work with Territorial Headquarters to document procedures as outlined in the Recommendations above. See corrective action plan.
Reference Number: 2022-001 Prior Year Finding: Yes – 2021-001 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through Agency: Various Federal Program: Emergency Solutions Grant Program ALN Number: 14.231 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Material Weakness, Noncompliance Criteria or specific requirement: As per § 200.318 General procurement standards. (a) The Non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. (d) The Non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Condition: Based on our review of the Procurement compliance requirements, we noted that the Division has written procurement policies and competitive policies as required by CFR § 200.318 General procurement standards. We selected five (5) vendors for procurement Suspension and Debarment compliance testing of total population of 5 vendors subject to procurement and we were not provided with Procurement comparative bids therefore, we were unable: • To verify that the procurement method used was appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. • To Verify that procurements provide full and open competition (2 CFR section 200.319 and 48 CFR section 52.244-5). Cause: The Division did not ensured that as a non-Federal entity must have and must use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local laws and regulations and the standards of §§ 200.318 through 200.327, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. Effect: The funding agency can reject the expenditures incurred by the Division on certain vendors where the Division must use procurement method appropriately based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. Questioned costs: Cannot be determined Recommendation: We recommend that the Division must: • Use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local, laws and regulations and the standards, for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. • The Division must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records should 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. Views of responsible officials: The Division will work with Territorial Headquarters to document procedures as outlined in the Recommendations above. See corrective action plan.
Reference Number: 2022-001 Prior Year Finding: Yes – 2021-001 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through Agency: Various Federal Program: Emergency Solutions Grant Program ALN Number: 14.231 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Material Weakness, Noncompliance Criteria or specific requirement: As per § 200.318 General procurement standards. (a) The Non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. (d) The Non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Condition: Based on our review of the Procurement compliance requirements, we noted that the Division has written procurement policies and competitive policies as required by CFR § 200.318 General procurement standards. We selected five (5) vendors for procurement Suspension and Debarment compliance testing of total population of 5 vendors subject to procurement and we were not provided with Procurement comparative bids therefore, we were unable: • To verify that the procurement method used was appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. • To Verify that procurements provide full and open competition (2 CFR section 200.319 and 48 CFR section 52.244-5). Cause: The Division did not ensured that as a non-Federal entity must have and must use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local laws and regulations and the standards of §§ 200.318 through 200.327, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. Effect: The funding agency can reject the expenditures incurred by the Division on certain vendors where the Division must use procurement method appropriately based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. Questioned costs: Cannot be determined Recommendation: We recommend that the Division must: • Use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local, laws and regulations and the standards, for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. • The Division must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records should 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. Views of responsible officials: The Division will work with Territorial Headquarters to document procedures as outlined in the Recommendations above. See corrective action plan.
Reference Number: 2022-001 Prior Year Finding: Yes – 2021-001 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Pass-through Agency: Various Federal Program: Emergency Solutions Grant Program ALN Number: 14.231 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Material Weakness, Noncompliance Criteria or specific requirement: As per § 200.318 General procurement standards. (a) The Non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. (d) The Non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Condition: Based on our review of the Procurement compliance requirements, we noted that the Division has written procurement policies and competitive policies as required by CFR § 200.318 General procurement standards. We selected five (5) vendors for procurement Suspension and Debarment compliance testing of total population of 5 vendors subject to procurement and we were not provided with Procurement comparative bids therefore, we were unable: • To verify that the procurement method used was appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. • To Verify that procurements provide full and open competition (2 CFR section 200.319 and 48 CFR section 52.244-5). Cause: The Division did not ensured that as a non-Federal entity must have and must use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local laws and regulations and the standards of §§ 200.318 through 200.327, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. Effect: The funding agency can reject the expenditures incurred by the Division on certain vendors where the Division must use procurement method appropriately based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. Questioned costs: Cannot be determined Recommendation: We recommend that the Division must: • Use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local, laws and regulations and the standards, for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. • The Division must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records should 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. Views of responsible officials: The Division will work with Territorial Headquarters to document procedures as outlined in the Recommendations above. See corrective action plan.
Criteria The non-federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity?s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in ??200.317 through 200.327. Condition The County did not have a written federal procurement policy and procedures throughout the majority of FY2022. The County adopted a written policy, in agreement with 2CFR200.318(a), on August 9, 2022. As of September 30, 2022, the adopted policy had not been fully implemented. Cause The County was unable to internally reconcile disagreements in the language for inclusion in the federal procurement policy and procedures document, leading to a delay in the approval and implementation of a written procurement policy. Effect The County would be out of compliance with the required procurement activities for purchases. Questioned Costs There are no questioned costs related to finding 2022-001. This is a general finding, rather than a finding related to a specific program. Perspective Information The County began working on a draft version of the written procurement policy in FY2021. The process of researching federal procurement requirements and reconciling the final language took longer than expected. Upon the adoption of the policy on August 9, 2022, the County began the implementation process. Within the language of the adopted policy are provisions which shall be vetted and discussed prior to taking effect. Such policies are noted as taking effect no later than August 4, 2023. This finding represents a systematic problem (as opposed to an isolated event), which is actively being resolved. Identification of Repeat Findings This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation We recommend the County expedite the provisions subject to vetting and begin following the written federal procurement policy and procedures. Views of Responsible Officials We agree with the audit finding and are taking corrective action to fully implement the policy on or before August 4, 2023. The county has officially formed an audit committee composed of the nine elected officials. The audit committee will review the federal procurement policy to ensure complete implementation.
Significant Deficiency 2 CFR ? 2400.101 gives regulatory effect to the Department of Housing and Urban Development for 2 CFR ? 200.302 (b) (6) and (7) which requires the Authority to establish written procedures for determining the allowability of costs in accordance with Subpart E - Cost Principles and the terms and conditions of the Federal award and establish written procedures to implement the requirements of ? 305 Payment. Additionally, 2 C.F.R. ? 2400.101 gives regulatory effect to the Department of Housing and Urban Development for 2 C.F.R. ? 200.318(a) which states the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in ?? 200.317 through 200.327. Although the Authority did have written standard operating procedures requiring purchase orders, they did not have an approved purchase order or contract on file for 2 of the 50 purchases tested. Failure to have proper controls in place to ensure policies and procedures are being followed could result in unallowable costs and procurement noncompliance. The Authority should follow their written standard operating procedures and implement controls to ensure allowability of costs and procurement in accordance with federal grants.
2022-004 Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls over Compliance for Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Identification data: U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Water and Waste Disposal Systems for Rural Communities ? grants, Assistance Listing No. 10.760 Criteria: Part 2 CFR 300.318 states that the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in ?? 200.317 through 200.327. Additionally, the non-Federal entity must maintain written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award and administration of contracts. Condition and Context: The Village of Clearwater, Nebraska does not have a formal documented policy regarding procurement, suspension, and debarment transactions. Additionally, the Village does not have a written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the performance of its employees engaged in the selection, award, and administration of contracts. Cause: A breakdown in the Village?s internal controls over procurement, suspension and debarment did not allow the Village to comply with the standards. Effect or potential effect: The control deficiency is a significant deficiency that may prevent the Village from complying with the procurement, suspension, and debarment requirements of the award agreements. Recommendation: The Village?s management and Board should develop formal written policies and procedures for procurement, suspension and debarment transactions. Additionally, the Village should adopt written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest. Views of Responsible Officials: The Village of Clearwater, Nebraska?s management and Board will work on developing formal written procedures for procurement, suspension and debarment transactions. Additionally, the Village will adopt written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest.
Finding 2022 ? 001: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment for Federal Programs Significant Deficiency, Internal Control Over Compliance Assistance Listing Number: 93.591 ? COVID-19 Family Violence Prevention and Services/State Domestic Violence Coalitions / 16.575 ? Crime Victim Assistance Federal Agency: Department of Health and Human Services / Department of Justice Award Year: 2022 Federal Award Identification: 2101MSSDVC, 2101MSSDC6, 2001MSSDC3 (ALN: 93.671) Pass-Through Entity: Mississippi Department of Health (ALN: 93.671 and 16.575) Criteria: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.303 (a), establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in ?Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government? issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the ?Internal Control Integrated Framework?, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The 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 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. In addition procedures should conform to those detailed in 2 CFR 180.300 through 180.325: ?Responsibilities of Participants Regarding Transactions Doing Business With Other Persons?. Condition: Although no instance of non-compliance were identified, MCADV does not have internal controls in place to ensure compliance with this requirement. Cause: MCADV?s internal control system was not properly designed to ensure that contracting with suspended or debarred parties is prevented. Further, documentation was not available to demonstrate that a procurement policy was in place to address cost and price analysis and vendor selections, where applicable, based on the method of procurement used. MCADV historically contracts with the same vendors year-over-year and did not review the list of suspended or debarred entities to ensure current vendors were not on the suspension or debarment list. Effect: Although no instances of noncompliance were identified, MCADV?s lack of internal control process related to procurement and suspension and debarment, could result in violation of the federal requirement. Questioned Costs: N/A. Identification As A Repeat Finding: Yes. Recommendations: We recommend developing a procurement policy to guide the selection of vendors, further this policy should require the periodic review of vendors against the federal list of suspensions and debarments published on the System for Award Management website at https://sam.gov/content/exclusions. Views Of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action: MCADV will make the necessary correction for compliance. As a result of the finding, Wendy Mahoney will be responsible for developing a procurement policy to guide the selection of vendors. MCADV will ensure the policy includes the periodic review of those vendors against the federal list of suspensions and debarments published on the System for Award Management website at https://sam.gov/content/exclusions. Anticipated completion date: September 30, 2023.
Finding 2022 ? 001: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment for Federal Programs Significant Deficiency, Internal Control Over Compliance Assistance Listing Number: 93.591 ? COVID-19 Family Violence Prevention and Services/State Domestic Violence Coalitions / 16.575 ? Crime Victim Assistance Federal Agency: Department of Health and Human Services / Department of Justice Award Year: 2022 Federal Award Identification: 2101MSSDVC, 2101MSSDC6, 2001MSSDC3 (ALN: 93.671) Pass-Through Entity: Mississippi Department of Health (ALN: 93.671 and 16.575) Criteria: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.303 (a), establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in ?Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government? issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the ?Internal Control Integrated Framework?, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The 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 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. In addition procedures should conform to those detailed in 2 CFR 180.300 through 180.325: ?Responsibilities of Participants Regarding Transactions Doing Business With Other Persons?. Condition: Although no instance of non-compliance were identified, MCADV does not have internal controls in place to ensure compliance with this requirement. Cause: MCADV?s internal control system was not properly designed to ensure that contracting with suspended or debarred parties is prevented. Further, documentation was not available to demonstrate that a procurement policy was in place to address cost and price analysis and vendor selections, where applicable, based on the method of procurement used. MCADV historically contracts with the same vendors year-over-year and did not review the list of suspended or debarred entities to ensure current vendors were not on the suspension or debarment list. Effect: Although no instances of noncompliance were identified, MCADV?s lack of internal control process related to procurement and suspension and debarment, could result in violation of the federal requirement. Questioned Costs: N/A. Identification As A Repeat Finding: Yes. Recommendations: We recommend developing a procurement policy to guide the selection of vendors, further this policy should require the periodic review of vendors against the federal list of suspensions and debarments published on the System for Award Management website at https://sam.gov/content/exclusions. Views Of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action: MCADV will make the necessary correction for compliance. As a result of the finding, Wendy Mahoney will be responsible for developing a procurement policy to guide the selection of vendors. MCADV will ensure the policy includes the periodic review of those vendors against the federal list of suspensions and debarments published on the System for Award Management website at https://sam.gov/content/exclusions. Anticipated completion date: September 30, 2023.
Finding 2022 ? 001: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment for Federal Programs Significant Deficiency, Internal Control Over Compliance Assistance Listing Number: 93.591 ? COVID-19 Family Violence Prevention and Services/State Domestic Violence Coalitions / 16.575 ? Crime Victim Assistance Federal Agency: Department of Health and Human Services / Department of Justice Award Year: 2022 Federal Award Identification: 2101MSSDVC, 2101MSSDC6, 2001MSSDC3 (ALN: 93.671) Pass-Through Entity: Mississippi Department of Health (ALN: 93.671 and 16.575) Criteria: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.303 (a), establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in ?Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government? issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the ?Internal Control Integrated Framework?, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The 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 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. In addition procedures should conform to those detailed in 2 CFR 180.300 through 180.325: ?Responsibilities of Participants Regarding Transactions Doing Business With Other Persons?. Condition: Although no instance of non-compliance were identified, MCADV does not have internal controls in place to ensure compliance with this requirement. Cause: MCADV?s internal control system was not properly designed to ensure that contracting with suspended or debarred parties is prevented. Further, documentation was not available to demonstrate that a procurement policy was in place to address cost and price analysis and vendor selections, where applicable, based on the method of procurement used. MCADV historically contracts with the same vendors year-over-year and did not review the list of suspended or debarred entities to ensure current vendors were not on the suspension or debarment list. Effect: Although no instances of noncompliance were identified, MCADV?s lack of internal control process related to procurement and suspension and debarment, could result in violation of the federal requirement. Questioned Costs: N/A. Identification As A Repeat Finding: Yes. Recommendations: We recommend developing a procurement policy to guide the selection of vendors, further this policy should require the periodic review of vendors against the federal list of suspensions and debarments published on the System for Award Management website at https://sam.gov/content/exclusions. Views Of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action: MCADV will make the necessary correction for compliance. As a result of the finding, Wendy Mahoney will be responsible for developing a procurement policy to guide the selection of vendors. MCADV will ensure the policy includes the periodic review of those vendors against the federal list of suspensions and debarments published on the System for Award Management website at https://sam.gov/content/exclusions. Anticipated completion date: September 30, 2023.
Finding 2022 ? 001: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment for Federal Programs Significant Deficiency, Internal Control Over Compliance Assistance Listing Number: 93.591 ? COVID-19 Family Violence Prevention and Services/State Domestic Violence Coalitions / 16.575 ? Crime Victim Assistance Federal Agency: Department of Health and Human Services / Department of Justice Award Year: 2022 Federal Award Identification: 2101MSSDVC, 2101MSSDC6, 2001MSSDC3 (ALN: 93.671) Pass-Through Entity: Mississippi Department of Health (ALN: 93.671 and 16.575) Criteria: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.303 (a), establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in ?Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government? issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the ?Internal Control Integrated Framework?, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The 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 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. In addition procedures should conform to those detailed in 2 CFR 180.300 through 180.325: ?Responsibilities of Participants Regarding Transactions Doing Business With Other Persons?. Condition: Although no instance of non-compliance were identified, MCADV does not have internal controls in place to ensure compliance with this requirement. Cause: MCADV?s internal control system was not properly designed to ensure that contracting with suspended or debarred parties is prevented. Further, documentation was not available to demonstrate that a procurement policy was in place to address cost and price analysis and vendor selections, where applicable, based on the method of procurement used. MCADV historically contracts with the same vendors year-over-year and did not review the list of suspended or debarred entities to ensure current vendors were not on the suspension or debarment list. Effect: Although no instances of noncompliance were identified, MCADV?s lack of internal control process related to procurement and suspension and debarment, could result in violation of the federal requirement. Questioned Costs: N/A. Identification As A Repeat Finding: Yes. Recommendations: We recommend developing a procurement policy to guide the selection of vendors, further this policy should require the periodic review of vendors against the federal list of suspensions and debarments published on the System for Award Management website at https://sam.gov/content/exclusions. Views Of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action: MCADV will make the necessary correction for compliance. As a result of the finding, Wendy Mahoney will be responsible for developing a procurement policy to guide the selection of vendors. MCADV will ensure the policy includes the periodic review of those vendors against the federal list of suspensions and debarments published on the System for Award Management website at https://sam.gov/content/exclusions. Anticipated completion date: September 30, 2023.
Identification of federal program: 21.027 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Department of the Treasury Criteria or specific requirement: 21.027 Part 4 Compliance Supplement: Procurement - Recipients may use award funds to enter into contracts to procure goods and services necessary to implement one or more of the eligible purposes outlined in sections 602(c) and 603(c) of the Act and Treasury?s Interim Final Rule. As such, recipients are expected to have procurement policies and procedures in place that comply with the procurement standards outlined in the Uniform Guidance. All other entities under the program, including subrecipients of a state, must follow the procurement standards in 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.327, including ensuring that the procurement method used for the contracts are appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR 200.320. Uniform Guidance 2 C.F.R 200.318 through 2 C.F.R. 200.327 200.318(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 200.327.200.318(i) The non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not 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: It was noted during the audit of fiscal year 2022 that although Skagway Traditional Council (STC) has documented procurement policies consistent with Uniform Guidance. STC did not maintain evidence that it followed its own documented procurement policy for procurements greater than the micro-purchase threshold. Cause: STC does not have an administrative process to ensure that the procurement documentation supporting purchases greater than the micro-purchase threshold are maintained in accordance with STCs procurement policies. Effect or potential effect: STC is out of compliance with Uniform Guidance procurement standards in fiscal year 2022. Questioned Costs: None. Context: For this program, four procurements were greater than STC?s micro-purchase threshold and all four were tested against STC?s procurement policy, of those four, none of them had documentation supporting STC following STC?s procurement policies. Identification of Repeat Finding: Not applicable. Recommendations: We recommend that as a part of STC?s internal control structure over compliance with Uniform Guidance, that STC prepare a checklist, reflective of STC?s approved procurement policies, that must be completed before procurements can be awarded and all documents supporting that checklist be filled together. Views of Responsible Officials: See Corrective Action Plan
THE SALVATION ARMY USA, WESTERN TERRITORY, DEL ORO DIVISION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS SEPTEMBER 30, 2022 Reference Number: 2022-001 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development State Agency: State of California- Department of Housing and Community Development Federal Program: Emergency Solutions Grant Program ALN Number: 14.231 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Material Weakness, Noncompliance Criteria or specific requirement: As per ? 200.318 General procurement standards. (a) The Non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in ?? 200.317 through 200.327. (b) Non-Federal entities must maintain oversight to ensure that contractors perform in accordance with the terms, conditions, and specifications of their contracts or purchase orders. (d) The Non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Condition: Based on our review of the Procurement compliance requirements, we noted that the Division has written procurement policies and competitive policies as required by CFR ? 200.318 General procurement standards. We selected two (2) vendors for procurement Suspension and Debarment compliance testing of total population of 2 vendors subject to procurement and we were not provided with Procurement comparative bids therefore, we were unable: ? To verify that the procurement method used was appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. ? To Verify that procurements provide full and open competition (2 CFR section 200.319 and 48 CFR section 52.244-5). Cause: The Division did not ensured that as a non-Federal entity must have and must use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local laws and regulations and the standards of ?? 200.318 through 200.327, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. Effect: The funding agency can reject the expenditures incurred by the Division on certain vendors where the Division must use procurement method appropriately based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. Questioned costs: Cannot be determined Recommendation: We recommend that the Division must: (1) document procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local, laws and regulations and the standards, for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. (2) The Division?s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in ?? 200.318 through 200.327. Views of responsible officials: The Division will work with Territorial Headquarters to document procedures as outlined in the Recommendations above. See corrective action plan.
THE SALVATION ARMY USA, WESTERN TERRITORY, DEL ORO DIVISION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS SEPTEMBER 30, 2022 Reference Number: 2022-001 Prior Year Finding: No Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development State Agency: State of California- Department of Housing and Community Development Federal Program: Emergency Solutions Grant Program ALN Number: 14.231 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Material Weakness, Noncompliance Criteria or specific requirement: As per ? 200.318 General procurement standards. (a) The Non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in ?? 200.317 through 200.327. (b) Non-Federal entities must maintain oversight to ensure that contractors perform in accordance with the terms, conditions, and specifications of their contracts or purchase orders. (d) The Non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Condition: Based on our review of the Procurement compliance requirements, we noted that the Division has written procurement policies and competitive policies as required by CFR ? 200.318 General procurement standards. We selected two (2) vendors for procurement Suspension and Debarment compliance testing of total population of 2 vendors subject to procurement and we were not provided with Procurement comparative bids therefore, we were unable: ? To verify that the procurement method used was appropriate based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. ? To Verify that procurements provide full and open competition (2 CFR section 200.319 and 48 CFR section 52.244-5). Cause: The Division did not ensured that as a non-Federal entity must have and must use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local laws and regulations and the standards of ?? 200.318 through 200.327, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. Effect: The funding agency can reject the expenditures incurred by the Division on certain vendors where the Division must use procurement method appropriately based on the dollar amount and conditions specified in 2 CFR section 200.320. Questioned costs: Cannot be determined Recommendation: We recommend that the Division must: (1) document procurement procedures, consistent with State, and local, laws and regulations and the standards, for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. (2) The Division?s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in ?? 200.318 through 200.327. Views of responsible officials: The Division will work with Territorial Headquarters to document procedures as outlined in the Recommendations above. See corrective action plan.
2022-009 – Procurement Documentation Finding Type: Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls and Noncompliance (Procurement, Suspension & Debarment) Federal Program: U.S. Department of Treasury – Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (AL #21.027) Criteria: The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Section 200.318(a) requires non-Federal entities to establish and use documented procurement procedures that conform to the procurement standards identified in Sections 200.317 through 200.327. Condition: While the County does have a written procurement policy that meets the requirements, the policy was not being followed. The County did not maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement including the rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. The County did not maintain documentation to sufficiently support noncompetitive procurement on one contract tested. The County did not maintain written documentation of a cost analysis. County management indicated that many of the items procured were processed through the Michigan MiDeal website, but a contract file was not maintained. Cause: The County does not have controls in place to ensure that its procurement policy is being followed. Effect: As a result of this condition, the County did not fully comply with the Uniform Guidance. Questioned Costs: No costs have been questioned as a result of this finding. Recommendation: We recommend that the County implement controls to ensure the procurement policy is followed. Views of Responsible Officials: The County will work to implement controls to ensure the procurement policy is followed.
Information on the Federal Program: Assistance Listing Number 21.027-Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds, U.S. Department of the Treasury. Compliance Requirements: Procurement. Type of Finding: Noncompliance. Criteria: 2 CFR § 200.319(d) requires that the non-Federal entity must maintain written procedures for procurement transactions. Condition: We noted that the County did not have written procedures for procurement transactions that include the provisions required by the Procurement Standards 2 CFR § 200.318 through 2 CFR § 200.327 in fiscal year 2022. Cause: The County was not aware of the requirement to have written procedures for procurement transactions. Effect: Failure to have adequate written procedures for procurement transactions could result in the acquisition of goods or services in violation with administrative requirements, federal regulations, other procurement requirements, and Uniform Guidance requirements. Questioned Costs: There are no questioned costs. Recommendation: We recommend that the County identify grants that are subject to Uniform Guidance on a timely basis to ensure all compliance requirements are met and develop adequate written policies and procedures for procurement transactions. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action: The County has identified federal grants subject to the Uniform Guidance and will develop written policies and procedures which include the relevant provisions required by 2 CFR § 200.318 through 2 CFR § 200.326 Contract provisions.
Finding 2022-005 – Procurement Policies Assistance Listing #: ALL Criteria: The Uniform Guidance, 2 CFR Subpart D, requires that all non-federal entities must follow the procurement standards as set forth in parts §200.318 through §200.327 and the non-federal entity’s documented procurement procedures must conform to these procurement standards. Condition: The Organization has general policies and procedures that broadly address procurement, however, the written policies do not comply with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance. The Organization’s procurement policies have been adopted using a model applicable to a commercial entity with multiple references to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and its standards, rather than a non-profit organization subject to the Uniform Guidance. Cause: As noted above, fiscal year 2022 is the Organization’s first Single Audit and It appears the Organization is not fully aware of the applicable requirements. Effect: The Organization is not in compliance with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance and its relative procurement standards. In addition, since the Organization is not following the procurement guidance as specified, they are at a heightened risk that they will procure goods and services outside of the allowed scope of the Uniform Guidance, not follow proper procurement steps to selection, and/or not maintain proper procurement history, etc. Questioned Costs: N/A Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management update its procurement policies and procedures to comply with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance. Response: The Organization is generally identified and approached by Federal agencies, or prime contractors having or considering federal agencies, to utilize grant funding for NFFCMH contracts. The Organization works with trusted partners, each having a unique or specialized forte within the grant requirements, to assemble a joint team of providers. Many of these partners are, due to repeated utilization and unique recognition within their field, uniquely qualified, or the true only option, for their areas of expertise. The Organization will revise the procurement policy to comply with Uniform Guidance, as opposed to the Federal Acquisition Regulations.
Finding 2022-005 – Procurement Policies Assistance Listing #: ALL Criteria: The Uniform Guidance, 2 CFR Subpart D, requires that all non-federal entities must follow the procurement standards as set forth in parts §200.318 through §200.327 and the non-federal entity’s documented procurement procedures must conform to these procurement standards. Condition: The Organization has general policies and procedures that broadly address procurement, however, the written policies do not comply with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance. The Organization’s procurement policies have been adopted using a model applicable to a commercial entity with multiple references to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and its standards, rather than a non-profit organization subject to the Uniform Guidance. Cause: As noted above, fiscal year 2022 is the Organization’s first Single Audit and It appears the Organization is not fully aware of the applicable requirements. Effect: The Organization is not in compliance with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance and its relative procurement standards. In addition, since the Organization is not following the procurement guidance as specified, they are at a heightened risk that they will procure goods and services outside of the allowed scope of the Uniform Guidance, not follow proper procurement steps to selection, and/or not maintain proper procurement history, etc. Questioned Costs: N/A Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management update its procurement policies and procedures to comply with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance. Response: The Organization is generally identified and approached by Federal agencies, or prime contractors having or considering federal agencies, to utilize grant funding for NFFCMH contracts. The Organization works with trusted partners, each having a unique or specialized forte within the grant requirements, to assemble a joint team of providers. Many of these partners are, due to repeated utilization and unique recognition within their field, uniquely qualified, or the true only option, for their areas of expertise. The Organization will revise the procurement policy to comply with Uniform Guidance, as opposed to the Federal Acquisition Regulations.
Finding 2022-005 – Procurement Policies Assistance Listing #: ALL Criteria: The Uniform Guidance, 2 CFR Subpart D, requires that all non-federal entities must follow the procurement standards as set forth in parts §200.318 through §200.327 and the non-federal entity’s documented procurement procedures must conform to these procurement standards. Condition: The Organization has general policies and procedures that broadly address procurement, however, the written policies do not comply with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance. The Organization’s procurement policies have been adopted using a model applicable to a commercial entity with multiple references to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and its standards, rather than a non-profit organization subject to the Uniform Guidance. Cause: As noted above, fiscal year 2022 is the Organization’s first Single Audit and It appears the Organization is not fully aware of the applicable requirements. Effect: The Organization is not in compliance with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance and its relative procurement standards. In addition, since the Organization is not following the procurement guidance as specified, they are at a heightened risk that they will procure goods and services outside of the allowed scope of the Uniform Guidance, not follow proper procurement steps to selection, and/or not maintain proper procurement history, etc. Questioned Costs: N/A Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management update its procurement policies and procedures to comply with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance. Response: The Organization is generally identified and approached by Federal agencies, or prime contractors having or considering federal agencies, to utilize grant funding for NFFCMH contracts. The Organization works with trusted partners, each having a unique or specialized forte within the grant requirements, to assemble a joint team of providers. Many of these partners are, due to repeated utilization and unique recognition within their field, uniquely qualified, or the true only option, for their areas of expertise. The Organization will revise the procurement policy to comply with Uniform Guidance, as opposed to the Federal Acquisition Regulations.
Finding 2022-005 – Procurement Policies Assistance Listing #: ALL Criteria: The Uniform Guidance, 2 CFR Subpart D, requires that all non-federal entities must follow the procurement standards as set forth in parts §200.318 through §200.327 and the non-federal entity’s documented procurement procedures must conform to these procurement standards. Condition: The Organization has general policies and procedures that broadly address procurement, however, the written policies do not comply with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance. The Organization’s procurement policies have been adopted using a model applicable to a commercial entity with multiple references to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and its standards, rather than a non-profit organization subject to the Uniform Guidance. Cause: As noted above, fiscal year 2022 is the Organization’s first Single Audit and It appears the Organization is not fully aware of the applicable requirements. Effect: The Organization is not in compliance with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance and its relative procurement standards. In addition, since the Organization is not following the procurement guidance as specified, they are at a heightened risk that they will procure goods and services outside of the allowed scope of the Uniform Guidance, not follow proper procurement steps to selection, and/or not maintain proper procurement history, etc. Questioned Costs: N/A Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management update its procurement policies and procedures to comply with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance. Response: The Organization is generally identified and approached by Federal agencies, or prime contractors having or considering federal agencies, to utilize grant funding for NFFCMH contracts. The Organization works with trusted partners, each having a unique or specialized forte within the grant requirements, to assemble a joint team of providers. Many of these partners are, due to repeated utilization and unique recognition within their field, uniquely qualified, or the true only option, for their areas of expertise. The Organization will revise the procurement policy to comply with Uniform Guidance, as opposed to the Federal Acquisition Regulations.
2022-003—Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Federal program information: Funding agency: All Title: All Assistance Listing Number (ALN): All Award year and number: All Pass-through entity (if applicable): All Criteria: According to 2 CFR Part 200.318, a non-federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in Parts 200.317 through 200.327, including written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award and administration of contracts. Condition: The Institute has not developed and approved policies and procedures over procurement, suspension and debarment as required by the Uniform Guidance. Questioned Costs: None. Context: N/A Cause: The Institute had never been subject to an external audit prior to 2021 and had not developed formal policies and procedures over procurement, among others. Effect: The Institute is not in compliance with the Uniform Guidance general procurement standards at 2 CFR Part 200.318. Auditor’s Recommendations: The Institute should development written policies and procedures over procurement, suspension and debarment that meets the requirements of 2 CFR Parts 200.317 through 200.327. Management’s Response: Management of the Institute did not provide any comments in response to this finding.
2022-003—Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Federal program information: Funding agency: All Title: All Assistance Listing Number (ALN): All Award year and number: All Pass-through entity (if applicable): All Criteria: According to 2 CFR Part 200.318, a non-federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in Parts 200.317 through 200.327, including written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award and administration of contracts. Condition: The Institute has not developed and approved policies and procedures over procurement, suspension and debarment as required by the Uniform Guidance. Questioned Costs: None. Context: N/A Cause: The Institute had never been subject to an external audit prior to 2021 and had not developed formal policies and procedures over procurement, among others. Effect: The Institute is not in compliance with the Uniform Guidance general procurement standards at 2 CFR Part 200.318. Auditor’s Recommendations: The Institute should development written policies and procedures over procurement, suspension and debarment that meets the requirements of 2 CFR Parts 200.317 through 200.327. Management’s Response: Management of the Institute did not provide any comments in response to this finding.
2022-003—Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Federal program information: Funding agency: All Title: All Assistance Listing Number (ALN): All Award year and number: All Pass-through entity (if applicable): All Criteria: According to 2 CFR Part 200.318, a non-federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in Parts 200.317 through 200.327, including written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award and administration of contracts. Condition: The Institute has not developed and approved policies and procedures over procurement, suspension and debarment as required by the Uniform Guidance. Questioned Costs: None. Context: N/A Cause: The Institute had never been subject to an external audit prior to 2021 and had not developed formal policies and procedures over procurement, among others. Effect: The Institute is not in compliance with the Uniform Guidance general procurement standards at 2 CFR Part 200.318. Auditor’s Recommendations: The Institute should development written policies and procedures over procurement, suspension and debarment that meets the requirements of 2 CFR Parts 200.317 through 200.327. Management’s Response: Management of the Institute did not provide any comments in response to this finding.
2022-003—Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Federal program information: Funding agency: All Title: All Assistance Listing Number (ALN): All Award year and number: All Pass-through entity (if applicable): All Criteria: According to 2 CFR Part 200.318, a non-federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in Parts 200.317 through 200.327, including written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award and administration of contracts. Condition: The Institute has not developed and approved policies and procedures over procurement, suspension and debarment as required by the Uniform Guidance. Questioned Costs: None. Context: N/A Cause: The Institute had never been subject to an external audit prior to 2021 and had not developed formal policies and procedures over procurement, among others. Effect: The Institute is not in compliance with the Uniform Guidance general procurement standards at 2 CFR Part 200.318. Auditor’s Recommendations: The Institute should development written policies and procedures over procurement, suspension and debarment that meets the requirements of 2 CFR Parts 200.317 through 200.327. Management’s Response: Management of the Institute did not provide any comments in response to this finding.
2022-003—Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Federal program information: Funding agency: All Title: All Assistance Listing Number (ALN): All Award year and number: All Pass-through entity (if applicable): All Criteria: According to 2 CFR Part 200.318, a non-federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in Parts 200.317 through 200.327, including written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award and administration of contracts. Condition: The Institute has not developed and approved policies and procedures over procurement, suspension and debarment as required by the Uniform Guidance. Questioned Costs: None. Context: N/A Cause: The Institute had never been subject to an external audit prior to 2021 and had not developed formal policies and procedures over procurement, among others. Effect: The Institute is not in compliance with the Uniform Guidance general procurement standards at 2 CFR Part 200.318. Auditor’s Recommendations: The Institute should development written policies and procedures over procurement, suspension and debarment that meets the requirements of 2 CFR Parts 200.317 through 200.327. Management’s Response: Management of the Institute did not provide any comments in response to this finding.
2022-003—Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Federal program information: Funding agency: All Title: All Assistance Listing Number (ALN): All Award year and number: All Pass-through entity (if applicable): All Criteria: According to 2 CFR Part 200.318, a non-federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in Parts 200.317 through 200.327, including written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award and administration of contracts. Condition: The Institute has not developed and approved policies and procedures over procurement, suspension and debarment as required by the Uniform Guidance. Questioned Costs: None. Context: N/A Cause: The Institute had never been subject to an external audit prior to 2021 and had not developed formal policies and procedures over procurement, among others. Effect: The Institute is not in compliance with the Uniform Guidance general procurement standards at 2 CFR Part 200.318. Auditor’s Recommendations: The Institute should development written policies and procedures over procurement, suspension and debarment that meets the requirements of 2 CFR Parts 200.317 through 200.327. Management’s Response: Management of the Institute did not provide any comments in response to this finding.
Criteria: A non-federal entity is required to have certain written policies and procedure in compliance with Uniform Guidance and must comply with the procurement standards as described in 2 CFR 200.318 through 2 CFR 200.327. Specifically, the non-federal entity must comply with the following: • 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. • If the non-Federal entity has a parent, affiliate, or subsidiary organization that is not a State, local government, or Indian tribe, the non-Federal entity must also maintain written standards of conduct covering organizational conflicts of interest. Organizational conflicts of interest means that because of relationships with a parent company, affiliate, or subsidiary organization, the non-Federal entity is unable or appears to be unable to be impartial in conducting a procurement action involving a related organization. Condition: AIRS does not appear to have created written purchasing or procurement policies and procedures as required by 2 CFR 200.318(a). Since AIRS is an affiliate organization of the Ethiopian Community Development Council (ECDC), it appears that the relationship between AIRS and ECDC meets the “affiliate” requirement under 2 CFR 200.318 (c) (2). It does appear that AIRS has created written standards of conduct covering organizational conflicts of interest. Cause: Management has not created or maintained certain written policies and procedures as required under 2 CFR 200.318. Effect: AIRS is not in compliance with certain written policies and procedures as required under 2 CFR 200.318. Questioned Costs: None reported Repeat Finding from Prior Year: Yes Recommendation: In response to Finding 2021-006 during the audit for the year ended September 30, 2021, management has started the process of creating, updating and revising its written policies and procedures. I commend management for their efforts. However, I strongly recommend that management and board complete the written procurement policies and procedures and written standards of conduct covering organizational conflicts of interest prior to start of the 2023 audit. Views of Responsible Officials: Management concurs with this audit finding.
Assistance Listing Number, Federal Agency, and Program Name - 21.027 U.S. Department of the Treasury Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Federal Award Identification Number and Year - YDYNCVFA9NH4 Pass through Entity - City of Raleigh, North Carolina Finding Type - Material weakness and material noncompliance with laws and regulations Repeat Finding - No Criteria - 2 CFR 200.318 requires that a nonfederal entity that acquires property or services under a federal award or subaward is required to adopt, maintain, and follow written procurement procedures, which comply with sections 2 CFR 200.318 through 327. Condition - WakeMed does not have a written policy in place over procurement methods, which covers 2 CFR 200.318 200.327, nor did WakeMed follow required procurement guidelines. Questioned Costs - $1,010,233 Identification of How Questioned Costs Were Computed - Questioned costs reflect the entire amount of costs expended under the grant during 2022. Context - WakeMed did not have a written policy in place over procurement methods, which covers 2 CFR 200.318 200.327, when the grant was awarded. In addition, WakeMed did not follow required procurement procedures related to expenditures under the grant, including a competitive bid process for costs charged to the grant as WakeMed entered into the construction contract prior to being awarded the funds. Cause and Effect - Failure to comply with the terms and conditions of the grant agreement, including procurement provisions, where controls were not in place to identify the requirement to have a written procurement policy and follow 2 CFR 200.318 200.327. Recommendation - WakeMed should develop a written procurement policy, which complies with the 2 CFR 200.318 200.327 sections, and ensure controls are in place to comply with the procurement policy on an ongoing basis. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions - Management agrees with the finding as reported. WakeMed is in the process of updating their existing procurement policy to include the relevant sections from the Code of Federal Regulations and will provide education to the areas involved in procurement and use of federal funds on these requirements.
Finding Number: 2022-043 Prior Year Finding Number: 2021-038 Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Program: U.S. Department of the Treasury COVID-19 - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds ALN: 21.027 Award #: N/A Award Period: 03/03/2021 – 12/31/2024 Government Department/Agency: Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Criteria – Recipients may use award funds to enter into contracts to procure goods and services necessary to implement one or more of the eligible purposes outlined in sections 602(c) and 603(c) of the Act and Treasury’s Interim Final Rule and Final Rule. As such, recipients are expected to have procurement policies and procedures in place that comply with the procurement standards outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Specifically, a state must follow the same policies and procedures it uses for procurements from its non-federal funds and comply with 2 CFR sections 200.321, 200.322, and 200.323. States must also ensure that every contract includes the applicable contract clauses required by 2 CFR section 200.327. Per Procurement Manual, User Agencies are required to submit a written justification letter to DPP, which was signed by the agency head, which explains the need for the services, the exception in title 31, Virgin Islands Code, chapter 23, section 239(a) being relied upon, the methodology for the selection process, and the rationale for selecting the prospective contractor. The letter must identify the funding source, and comply with all other requirements necessary for the acquisition of services under title 31, Virgin Islands Code, chapter 23, sections 239(a) (1), (2) or (3) whichever is applicable. The letter must contain an “approve/disapprove” block for the Commissioner of Property and Procurement. As such, please provide the justification letter for these three Task Order Contracts. Further, the Uniform Guidance in 2 CFR Section 200.303, Internal Controls, requires that non-federal entities receiving Federal awards (i.e., auditee management) establish and maintain internal control designed to ensure compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. Condition – The Government’s Department of Property and Procurement (DPP) is primarily responsible for procurement transactions. In our review of 9 out of 86 procurement transactions, we noted 3 transactions where there was no written justification letter for task order contracts. Further, internal controls over compliance do not appear to be operating effectively to ensure compliance with the procurement compliance requirements. Questioned Costs – None. Context – This is a condition identified per review of OMB’s compliance with the specified requirements using a statistically valid sample. Total amount of the procurement transactions was $17,487,469. Total amount of the samples was $5,699,575. The known amount of the exceptions is $3,530,516. Effect – OMB could inadvertently contract or make sub-awards to parties that are suspended or debarred from doing business with the Federal government as well as award contracts to vendors whose contract prices are unreasonable. In addition, contracts may be executed to unqualified vendors. Cause – OMB does not appear to have a process in place to adequately monitor and maintain completed contract files comprising of all supporting documents. Recommendation – We recommend that OMB and DPP improve internal controls to ensure adherence to federal regulations relating to the procurement of goods and services and review current records retention policies. There should be timely coordination and communication amongst all Government departments and/or agencies that are responsible for handling and managing procurement tasks. Views of Responsible Officials – The Government concurs with the auditor’s findings and recommendations. The Government updated its procurement laws and issued revised procurement manuals, along with issuing position-specific Standard Operating Procedures. Processes for enforcing Internal controls and adherence to procurement laws have been established and are regularly reinforced. In early 2025, the Government-wide training reinforced expectations for full and open competition. User Agencies now access GVIBUY for informal solicitations in the eProcurement system, with ongoing training to prioritize competition and enhance oversight by the Department of Property and Procurement. The planned corrective actions are presented in the Government’s Corrective Action Plan attached as Appendix B to the Single Audit Report.
Finding No. 2022-029 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Treasury AL Program: 21.027 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Federal Award No.: COVID-19 Area: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Questioned Costs: $12,244,415 Criteria: 1. In accordance with 2 CFR Section 200.317, when conducting procurement transactions under a Federal award, a State must follow the same policies and procedures it uses for procurements with non-Federal funds. CNMI procurement regulation states the following: • § 70-30.3-220 Small Purchases: (a) Purchases that use Government-sourced funds (local funds), or any combination of both local and federal funds, may be made according to the small purchase procedures of this subsection: (1) For purchases that exceed $10,000, but which are less than or equal to $50,000, a minimum of three vendors shall be solicited to submit written or electronic quotations. (b) Purchases that use only federal funds may be made according to the small purchase procedures of this subsection: (1) For purchases that exceed $10,000, but which are less than or equal to $250,000, a minimum of three vendors shall be solicited to submit written or electronic quotations. (2) A purchase order may be used to make purchases from the United States General Services Administration (GSA), including purchases that exceed $250,000. When purchasing from GSA, at least one quote shall be obtained. • § 70-30.3-760 Debarment and Suspension: (a) The official with expenditure authority may file a dispute with the Director against an existing contractor for any failures of performance related to a contract governed by this subchapter. 2. In accordance with 31 CFR Section 19.300, prior to entering into subawards and contracts with award funds, recipients must verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded: (a) Checking the EPLS; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person if allowed by this rule; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. 3. In accordance with 2 CFR Section 200.321, when possible, the recipient or subrecipient should ensure that small businesses, minority businesses, women's business enterprises, veteran-owned businesses, and labor surplus area firms are considered as set forth below. Such consideration means: (1) These business types are included on solicitation lists; (2) These business types are solicited whenever they are deemed eligible as potential sources; (3) Dividing procurement transactions into separate procurements to permit maximum participation by these business types; (4) Establishing delivery schedules (for example, the percentage of an order to be delivered by a given date of each month) that encourage participation by these business types; (5) Utilizing organizations such as the Small Business Administration and the Minority Business Development Agency of the Department of Commerce; and (6) Requiring a contractor under a Federal award to apply this section to subcontracts. 4. In accordance with 2 CFR Section 200.327, States must also ensure that every contract includes the applicable required contract clauses described in Appendix II of this part. Condition: 1. Inconsistencies were noted in procurement regulations over local and federal funded transactions. No questioned costs are presented as the extent of noncompliance could not be quantified. 2. CNMI does not verify whether contractors are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded pursuant to 31 CFR section 19.300, prior to entering into a covered transaction for an amount equal to or exceeds $25,000 with award funds. No questioned costs are presented as the extent of noncompliance could not be quantified. Of sixty expenditures tested, aggregating $12,867,972 of a total population of $35,131,391 in nonpayroll expenditures subject to procurement, the following were noted: 3. For five (or 8%), transaction amounts exceeded the $10,000 small purchase threshold; however, only one vendor quotation was obtained. 4. For thirty-six (or 60%), either the purchase orders, purchase requisitions, and/or contracts were not provided. 5. For two (or 3%), contracts did not include the required contract clauses pursuant to 2 CFR 200.237. No questioned costs are presented as the extent of noncompliance could not be quantified. 6. For sixty (or 100%) expenditures tested, no documentation was provided to indicate that minority businesses, women's business enterprises, veteran-owned businesses, and labor surplus area firms were considered during the solicitation or vendor selection process and/or whether procurement were divided or delivery schedules were established to encourage participation by these businesses, pursuant to 2 CFR 200.321. Further, documentation that organizations such as the Small Business Administration and the Minority Business Development Agency of the Department of Commerce were utilized and/or whether a contractor was required to apply this section to subcontracts, were also not provided. No questioned costs are presented as the extent of noncompliance could not be quantified. Cause: 1. CNMI does not use the same policies and procedures for procurements under a federal award as with procurements from its non-federal funds under the small purchases method. 2. The CNMI’s procurement regulations are not in accordance with 2 CFR Section 200.317 and 31 CFR Section 19.300 of the Code of Federal Regulations. 3. The CNMI did not meet the minimum requirement of three vendor quotations as required by § 70-30.3-220 Small Purchases for procurements that exceed $10,000, but which are less than or equal to $50,000. 4. Inadequate documentation and systematic filing of relevant documentation supporting program costs. 5. Lack of monitoring control procedures to ensure that minority businesses, women's business enterprises, veteran-owned businesses, and labor surplus area firms are considered during the vendor selection process as required by 2 CFR 200.321. 6. Lack of monitoring control procedures to ensure that the minimum contract provision requirements pursuant to 2 CFR 200.327 are included in all contracts. Effect: The CNMI is in noncompliance with applicable procurement and suspension and debarment regulations and questioned costs of $12,244,415 result for Conditions 3 and 4. Unknown questioned costs are presented for Conditions 1, 2, 5 and 6 as the extent of noncompliance, if any, could not be quantified. In addition, the CNMI could not provide a listing of transactions that were procured during FY2022. Identification as a Repeat Finding: Finding No. 2021-032 Recommendation: 1. The CNMI should revisit its procurement regulations and consider updating applicable sections of the regulations to comply with federal regulations governing federal funds. 2. Responsible CNMI personnel should periodically monitor updates in federal regulations over procurement and suspension and debarment. 3. Establish and implement effective monitoring controls over the verification of excluded or disqualified persons or vendors pursuant to 31 CFR Section 19.300, prior to the CNMI entering into a covered transaction. 4. Responsible CNMI personnel should ensure compliance with its procurement regulations, particularly to those pertaining to small purchases that exceed the $10,000 threshold. 5. Establish and maintain effective systematic filing of relevant documentation to support program costs and for easier retrieval. Views of Responsible Officials: Conditions 1 and 3 - The Procurement Services Division agrees with this finding. The Division will revise CNMI’s procurement regulations to ensure alignment with federal procurement standards as outlined in 2 CFR Part 200, particularly the small purchase threshold requirements and competitive procurement procedures. Conditions 2 and 5 - The Procurement Services Division agrees with this finding. To address the lack of consistent verification of vendor eligibility under federal debarment and suspension requirements (2 CFR §180.300), a policy will be implemented requiring all agencies to submit debarment verification documentation at the time of vendor selection. Acceptable documentation may include (1) a printout or screenshot from the SAM.gov Exclusions database, confirming that the vendor is not debarred or suspended, (2) a signed certification from the vendor attesting to their eligibility, or (3) a signed contract clause or provision that explicitly states the vendor is not excluded from federal transactions and complies with applicable debarment regulations. Conditions 4 and 6 - The Procurement Services Division disagrees with this finding. Due to internal scheduling constraints and the compressed timeline required to complete the FY2022 audit, the requested documents were not submitted by the specified deadline, resulting in this finding. However, the Division maintains all relevant supporting documentation and is prepared to provide it upon request from the Grantor. Refer to CNMI’s Corrective Action Plan for additional information. Auditor Response: Conditions 4 and 6 - CNMI states disagreement; however, CNMI also acknowledges that documentation supporting program costs were not provided.
Finding No. 2022-001: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment ? Significant Deficiency (Program Level) U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (93.318) Protecting and Improving Health Globally: Building and Strengthening Public Health Impact, Systems, Capacity and Security Condition: During testing the Federation?s controls on compliance over procurement and suspension and debarment, the Federation could not provide a procurement policy that is in compliance with prescribed standards in the Uniform Guidance. Context: The Federation currently does not have a procurement policy that complies with Uniform Guidance) requirements nor addresses the applicable sections codified in Chapter 2 Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards. Criteria: 2 CFR Section 200.318 requires that the non-federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with state, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. The non-federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in ?? 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR Section 200.320 requires that the non-federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of section ?200.320 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 subaward. 2 CFR Section 200.320 defines informal procurement methods, including micro-purchase thresholds, formal procurement methods and noncompetitive procurement methods. Cause: The Federation has not updated its procurement policy in order to specifically reference Uniform Guidance and to include prescribed applicable thresholds to be complied with. Effect: The Federation was not in compliance with the procurement policy requirements of the Uniform Guidance. As a result, the Federation could not provide a procurement policy compliant with Uniform Guidance requirements. Questioned costs: None. Repeat Finding?: No. Recommendation: The Federation should establish a procurement policy that addresses Uniform Guidance and required documentation. Views of Responsible Individuals: Management concurs with and will implement the recommendation. See Corrective Action Plan.
Finding No. 2022-001: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment ? Significant Deficiency (Program Level) U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (93.318) Protecting and Improving Health Globally: Building and Strengthening Public Health Impact, Systems, Capacity and Security Condition: During testing the Federation?s controls on compliance over procurement and suspension and debarment, the Federation could not provide a procurement policy that is in compliance with prescribed standards in the Uniform Guidance. Context: The Federation currently does not have a procurement policy that complies with Uniform Guidance) requirements nor addresses the applicable sections codified in Chapter 2 Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards. Criteria: 2 CFR Section 200.318 requires that the non-federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with state, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a federal award or subaward. The non-federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in ?? 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR Section 200.320 requires that the non-federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of section ?200.320 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 subaward. 2 CFR Section 200.320 defines informal procurement methods, including micro-purchase thresholds, formal procurement methods and noncompetitive procurement methods. Cause: The Federation has not updated its procurement policy in order to specifically reference Uniform Guidance and to include prescribed applicable thresholds to be complied with. Effect: The Federation was not in compliance with the procurement policy requirements of the Uniform Guidance. As a result, the Federation could not provide a procurement policy compliant with Uniform Guidance requirements. Questioned costs: None. Repeat Finding?: No. Recommendation: The Federation should establish a procurement policy that addresses Uniform Guidance and required documentation. Views of Responsible Individuals: Management concurs with and will implement the recommendation. See Corrective Action Plan.
Federal programs: Education Stabilization Fund - Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) CFDA Number: 84.425E / 84.425F Federal award identification number: P425E205418 / P425F204999 Grant period: September 29, 2020 to June 30, 2023 and July 23, 2020 to May 23, 2022 Federal agency: U.S. Department of Education Pass-through entity: N/A Category: Internal Control Finding Type: Material Weakness Compliance requirement: Other ? Policies and procedures requirements Condition and context When obtaining an understanding of the internal controls, policies, and procedures regarding the administration of federal programs, and grant term and conditions, we noted the following deficiencies: a. There is no written policy, nor the procedures designed and implemented by the Institution related to Cash Management were documented. The Institution opted to request the funds on a reimbursement basis. b. There were no written procedures for determining the allowability of costs in accordance with 2 CFR 200 subpart E of this part and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. c. After examination of the Institution procurement policy, we noted that the document was not signed by all members required from management and was not dated. Upon inquiry, we noted that the procurement policy was drafted and submitted to the Institution for review in February 2023. Therefore, no written policy and formal procedures were designed and implemented for the procurement transactions tested for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2022 and thereafter. Criteria 2 CFR 200.302 (b) (6) and (7) establish that the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following: written procedures to implement the requirements of ? 200.305, and written procedures for determining the allowability of costs in accordance with subpart E of this part and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. 2 CFR 200.303 establish that the non-Federal entity must: (a) establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in ?Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government? issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the ?Internal Control Integrated Framework?, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO); (b) comply with the U.S. Constitution, Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal awards; (c) evaluate and monitor the non-Federal entity's compliance with statutes, regulations and the terms and conditions of Federal awards; (d) take prompt action when instances of noncompliance are identified including noncompliance identified in audit findings; and (e) take reasonable measures to safeguard protected personally identifiable information and other information the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity designates as sensitive or the non-Federal entity considers sensitive consistent with applicable Federal, State, local, and tribal laws regarding privacy and responsibility over confidentiality. 2 CFR 200.318 (a) establishes that the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR 200.400 (a) to (d) establish that the application of these cost principles is based on the fundamental premises that: (a) the non-Federal entity is responsible for the efficient and effective administration of the Federal award through the application of sound management practices; (b) the non-Federal entity assumes responsibility for administering Federal funds in a manner consistent with underlying agreements, program objectives, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award; (c) the non-Federal entity, in recognition of its own unique combination of staff, facilities, and experience, has the primary responsibility for employing whatever form of sound organization and management techniques may be necessary in order to assure proper and efficient administration of the Federal award; (d) the application of these cost principles should require no significant changes in the internal accounting policies and practices of the non-Federal entity. However, the accounting practices of the non-Federal entity must be consistent with these cost principles and support the accumulation of costs as required by the principles and must provide for adequate documentation to support costs charged to the Federal award. Cause The Institution?s federal programs received prior the fiscal year ended July 31, 2020 did not require the implementation of written procedures as mentioned in the condition and context section, except for Cash Management policies and procedures for the Student Financial Assistance Programs Cluster for which the Institution has designed and implemented written procedures for such compliance requirement. The Covid-19 pandemic related programs were the reason why this new federal program funds were received, and the entity failed to design and implement on a timely basis the required written documentation and procedures. Effect Noncompliance with the above-mentioned requirement could lead to administrative sanctions by the grantor, including disallowance of costs. It could also be interpreted as a failure to achieve the program?s objectives. Questioned costs None. Identification as a Repeat Finding No repeated finding. Recommendation We recommend the Institution to implement written policies and procedures needed for the administration of federal grants before the acceptance of new grants. Having well sounded policies and procedures will reduce the Institution risk of non-compliance with federal regulations and grants terms and conditions. Also, they will provide guidance to the Institution?s personnel on how to carry-out their responsibilities and functions in relation to the administration of federal programs transactions. Views of Responsible Officials Refer to the Institutional comments included in the Corrective Action Plan.
Federal programs: Education Stabilization Fund - Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) CFDA Number: 84.425E / 84.425F Federal award identification number: P425E205418 / P425F204999 Grant period: September 29, 2020 to June 30, 2023 and July 23, 2020 to May 23, 2022 Federal agency: U.S. Department of Education Pass-through entity: N/A Category: Internal Control Finding Type: Material Weakness Compliance requirement: Other ? Policies and procedures requirements Condition and context When obtaining an understanding of the internal controls, policies, and procedures regarding the administration of federal programs, and grant term and conditions, we noted the following deficiencies: a. There is no written policy, nor the procedures designed and implemented by the Institution related to Cash Management were documented. The Institution opted to request the funds on a reimbursement basis. b. There were no written procedures for determining the allowability of costs in accordance with 2 CFR 200 subpart E of this part and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. c. After examination of the Institution procurement policy, we noted that the document was not signed by all members required from management and was not dated. Upon inquiry, we noted that the procurement policy was drafted and submitted to the Institution for review in February 2023. Therefore, no written policy and formal procedures were designed and implemented for the procurement transactions tested for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2022 and thereafter. Criteria 2 CFR 200.302 (b) (6) and (7) establish that the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following: written procedures to implement the requirements of ? 200.305, and written procedures for determining the allowability of costs in accordance with subpart E of this part and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. 2 CFR 200.303 establish that the non-Federal entity must: (a) establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in ?Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government? issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the ?Internal Control Integrated Framework?, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO); (b) comply with the U.S. Constitution, Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal awards; (c) evaluate and monitor the non-Federal entity's compliance with statutes, regulations and the terms and conditions of Federal awards; (d) take prompt action when instances of noncompliance are identified including noncompliance identified in audit findings; and (e) take reasonable measures to safeguard protected personally identifiable information and other information the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity designates as sensitive or the non-Federal entity considers sensitive consistent with applicable Federal, State, local, and tribal laws regarding privacy and responsibility over confidentiality. 2 CFR 200.318 (a) establishes that the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR 200.400 (a) to (d) establish that the application of these cost principles is based on the fundamental premises that: (a) the non-Federal entity is responsible for the efficient and effective administration of the Federal award through the application of sound management practices; (b) the non-Federal entity assumes responsibility for administering Federal funds in a manner consistent with underlying agreements, program objectives, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award; (c) the non-Federal entity, in recognition of its own unique combination of staff, facilities, and experience, has the primary responsibility for employing whatever form of sound organization and management techniques may be necessary in order to assure proper and efficient administration of the Federal award; (d) the application of these cost principles should require no significant changes in the internal accounting policies and practices of the non-Federal entity. However, the accounting practices of the non-Federal entity must be consistent with these cost principles and support the accumulation of costs as required by the principles and must provide for adequate documentation to support costs charged to the Federal award. Cause The Institution?s federal programs received prior the fiscal year ended July 31, 2020 did not require the implementation of written procedures as mentioned in the condition and context section, except for Cash Management policies and procedures for the Student Financial Assistance Programs Cluster for which the Institution has designed and implemented written procedures for such compliance requirement. The Covid-19 pandemic related programs were the reason why this new federal program funds were received, and the entity failed to design and implement on a timely basis the required written documentation and procedures. Effect Noncompliance with the above-mentioned requirement could lead to administrative sanctions by the grantor, including disallowance of costs. It could also be interpreted as a failure to achieve the program?s objectives. Questioned costs None. Identification as a Repeat Finding No repeated finding. Recommendation We recommend the Institution to implement written policies and procedures needed for the administration of federal grants before the acceptance of new grants. Having well sounded policies and procedures will reduce the Institution risk of non-compliance with federal regulations and grants terms and conditions. Also, they will provide guidance to the Institution?s personnel on how to carry-out their responsibilities and functions in relation to the administration of federal programs transactions. Views of Responsible Officials Refer to the Institutional comments included in the Corrective Action Plan.
Condition: As part of our auditing procedures, we assisted in the preparation of the financial statements, related disclosures, and the schedule of expenditures of federal awards of the Agency. The preparation of these financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, is the responsibility of the grantee. The authoritative and regulatory standards state in summary that management should authorize, process, reconcile and close out each grant and contract in a timely manner to ensure proper accounting and reporting of such activity in accordance with the specific professional standards and regulatory requirements. The close out process is designed to reduce the risk of errors, fraud, material misstatement of financial and compliance reporting and recognition of expenditures (or revenue) in the proper period. We noted that the current system of internal controls over financial statements and compliance is not designed to ensure that the objectives are achieved. Further, the capacity and experience of the current staff do not allow for adequate analysis of grants and contracts, proper allocations of shared costs and support services provided, grantor receivables, deferred revenue, and the reconciliation of bank accounts accurately and in a timely manner. This resulted in adjustments necessary to properly present the financial statements and disclosures of the Agency as of July 31, 2022. We also noted significant weaknesses in internal controls over personnel payroll and the processing, maintaining and reconciling payroll activity to the general ledger and external regulatory reporting (IRS Form 941's, state filings, etc.) Therefore, the risk exists that grant receivables and/or cash from the various programs are not recorded properly during the reporting period (interim and annually). This condition also makes it difficult to prepare accurate external reports required by the various funding sources in a timely manner (i.e., SF-425, LIHEAP reporting, etc.). The systemic cause appears to be the untimely resignation of key personnel, a change in the accounting system, a lack of personnel with the skills, knowledge, and experience with grant accounting and a weakness in the overall system of internal accounting controls and monitoring. Policies and procedures are not followed consistently throughout the year. Context: Review of internal control structure of the organization in accordance with Government Auditing Standards. Criteria: Controls should be in place to ensure that financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP. The auditee shall prepare financial statements that reflect its financial position, results of operations or changes in net assets, and, where appropriate, cash flows for the fiscal year audited. The auditee shall also prepare a schedule of expenditures of Federal awards for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements. [2 CFR ?200.510(a) and (b)] Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in ??200.327 Financial reporting and 200.328 Monitoring and reporting program performance [2 CFR ?200.302(b)(2)]. Effect: Management may not be able to obtain complete and accurate financial statements on an interim or fiscal year basis to be used for internal or external reporting purposes. Cause: Turnover of key staff, change in the accounting system, limited personnel with knowledge and/or the ability to assist and provide needed information to aid in financial statement preparation. The implementation of a new accounting system without an adequate close out of the old system was determined to be the systemic cause. Recommendation: The degree to which the preparation of the financial statements and related disclosures are prepared by the independent auditor is a control deficiency is determined by the knowledge, skills and experience of those in the organization who are charged with the responsibility of its financial reporting. The Agency has hired a new fiscal officer (CFO) and should hire additional staff (grant accountants and a general ledger accountant) to assist the new fiscal officer. New staff should have the adequate skills, knowledge and experience to oversee and/or perform the necessary accounting functions each month. Policies and procedures should be updated to adequately address the challenges and dynamics of the community action agency. We believe that the CFO with the supporting staff and general ledger accountant should have the overall responsibility of properly reconciling and closing out the accounting system and grant activity each month in an efficient and timely manner so as to eliminate the risk of significant errors occurring. Budget-to-actual schedules should be an integral part of the grant accountant?s basic responsibilities. Program directors should be involved in the closing process. We further recommend that training be provided to all staff engaged in the financial reporting, allocations and reconciliation functions to ensure that a complete and accurate financial statement close out process is achieved each month and annually. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management is in the process of assessing the organizational structure and capacity to provide adequate financial reporting. With Board review and approval of the agency?s financial funding sources, the agency will hire additional fiscal clerk to further support financial requirements and segregation of duties to ensure adequate internal controls are fully implemented. The CFO will have the overall responsibility of properly reconciling and closing out the accounting system and grant activity each month in an efficient and timely manner to eliminate the risk of significant errors occurring. Budget-to-actual schedules will be an integral part of the grant accountant analyst?s basic responsibilities. The fiscal policies and procedures will be updated with the enhancements implemented within the fiscal department. Staff will be trained on revised policies and procedures and uniform guidance regulations. The new automated financial system, will support financial reporting to meet GAAP requirements and to provide informative reports for Board and Management. All enhancements will be implemented by December 31, 2023.
Condition: As part of our auditing procedures, we assisted in the preparation of the financial statements, related disclosures, and the schedule of expenditures of federal awards of the Agency. The preparation of these financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, is the responsibility of the grantee. The authoritative and regulatory standards state in summary that management should authorize, process, reconcile and close out each grant and contract in a timely manner to ensure proper accounting and reporting of such activity in accordance with the specific professional standards and regulatory requirements. The close out process is designed to reduce the risk of errors, fraud, material misstatement of financial and compliance reporting and recognition of expenditures (or revenue) in the proper period. We noted that the current system of internal controls over financial statements and compliance is not designed to ensure that the objectives are achieved. Further, the capacity and experience of the current staff do not allow for adequate analysis of grants and contracts, proper allocations of shared costs and support services provided, grantor receivables, deferred revenue, and the reconciliation of bank accounts accurately and in a timely manner. This resulted in adjustments necessary to properly present the financial statements and disclosures of the Agency as of July 31, 2022. We also noted significant weaknesses in internal controls over personnel payroll and the processing, maintaining and reconciling payroll activity to the general ledger and external regulatory reporting (IRS Form 941's, state filings, etc.) Therefore, the risk exists that grant receivables and/or cash from the various programs are not recorded properly during the reporting period (interim and annually). This condition also makes it difficult to prepare accurate external reports required by the various funding sources in a timely manner (i.e., SF-425, LIHEAP reporting, etc.). The systemic cause appears to be the untimely resignation of key personnel, a change in the accounting system, a lack of personnel with the skills, knowledge, and experience with grant accounting and a weakness in the overall system of internal accounting controls and monitoring. Policies and procedures are not followed consistently throughout the year. Context: Review of internal control structure of the organization in accordance with Government Auditing Standards. Criteria: Controls should be in place to ensure that financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP. The auditee shall prepare financial statements that reflect its financial position, results of operations or changes in net assets, and, where appropriate, cash flows for the fiscal year audited. The auditee shall also prepare a schedule of expenditures of Federal awards for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements. [2 CFR ?200.510(a) and (b)] Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in ??200.327 Financial reporting and 200.328 Monitoring and reporting program performance [2 CFR ?200.302(b)(2)]. Effect: Management may not be able to obtain complete and accurate financial statements on an interim or fiscal year basis to be used for internal or external reporting purposes. Cause: Turnover of key staff, change in the accounting system, limited personnel with knowledge and/or the ability to assist and provide needed information to aid in financial statement preparation. The implementation of a new accounting system without an adequate close out of the old system was determined to be the systemic cause. Recommendation: The degree to which the preparation of the financial statements and related disclosures are prepared by the independent auditor is a control deficiency is determined by the knowledge, skills and experience of those in the organization who are charged with the responsibility of its financial reporting. The Agency has hired a new fiscal officer (CFO) and should hire additional staff (grant accountants and a general ledger accountant) to assist the new fiscal officer. New staff should have the adequate skills, knowledge and experience to oversee and/or perform the necessary accounting functions each month. Policies and procedures should be updated to adequately address the challenges and dynamics of the community action agency. We believe that the CFO with the supporting staff and general ledger accountant should have the overall responsibility of properly reconciling and closing out the accounting system and grant activity each month in an efficient and timely manner so as to eliminate the risk of significant errors occurring. Budget-to-actual schedules should be an integral part of the grant accountant?s basic responsibilities. Program directors should be involved in the closing process. We further recommend that training be provided to all staff engaged in the financial reporting, allocations and reconciliation functions to ensure that a complete and accurate financial statement close out process is achieved each month and annually. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management is in the process of assessing the organizational structure and capacity to provide adequate financial reporting. With Board review and approval of the agency?s financial funding sources, the agency will hire additional fiscal clerk to further support financial requirements and segregation of duties to ensure adequate internal controls are fully implemented. The CFO will have the overall responsibility of properly reconciling and closing out the accounting system and grant activity each month in an efficient and timely manner to eliminate the risk of significant errors occurring. Budget-to-actual schedules will be an integral part of the grant accountant analyst?s basic responsibilities. The fiscal policies and procedures will be updated with the enhancements implemented within the fiscal department. Staff will be trained on revised policies and procedures and uniform guidance regulations. The new automated financial system, will support financial reporting to meet GAAP requirements and to provide informative reports for Board and Management. All enhancements will be implemented by December 31, 2023.
Condition: As part of our auditing procedures, we assisted in the preparation of the financial statements, related disclosures, and the schedule of expenditures of federal awards of the Agency. The preparation of these financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, is the responsibility of the grantee. The authoritative and regulatory standards state in summary that management should authorize, process, reconcile and close out each grant and contract in a timely manner to ensure proper accounting and reporting of such activity in accordance with the specific professional standards and regulatory requirements. The close out process is designed to reduce the risk of errors, fraud, material misstatement of financial and compliance reporting and recognition of expenditures (or revenue) in the proper period. We noted that the current system of internal controls over financial statements and compliance is not designed to ensure that the objectives are achieved. Further, the capacity and experience of the current staff do not allow for adequate analysis of grants and contracts, proper allocations of shared costs and support services provided, grantor receivables, deferred revenue, and the reconciliation of bank accounts accurately and in a timely manner. This resulted in adjustments necessary to properly present the financial statements and disclosures of the Agency as of July 31, 2022. We also noted significant weaknesses in internal controls over personnel payroll and the processing, maintaining and reconciling payroll activity to the general ledger and external regulatory reporting (IRS Form 941's, state filings, etc.) Therefore, the risk exists that grant receivables and/or cash from the various programs are not recorded properly during the reporting period (interim and annually). This condition also makes it difficult to prepare accurate external reports required by the various funding sources in a timely manner (i.e., SF-425, LIHEAP reporting, etc.). The systemic cause appears to be the untimely resignation of key personnel, a change in the accounting system, a lack of personnel with the skills, knowledge, and experience with grant accounting and a weakness in the overall system of internal accounting controls and monitoring. Policies and procedures are not followed consistently throughout the year. Context: Review of internal control structure of the organization in accordance with Government Auditing Standards. Criteria: Controls should be in place to ensure that financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP. The auditee shall prepare financial statements that reflect its financial position, results of operations or changes in net assets, and, where appropriate, cash flows for the fiscal year audited. The auditee shall also prepare a schedule of expenditures of Federal awards for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements. [2 CFR ?200.510(a) and (b)] Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in ??200.327 Financial reporting and 200.328 Monitoring and reporting program performance [2 CFR ?200.302(b)(2)]. Effect: Management may not be able to obtain complete and accurate financial statements on an interim or fiscal year basis to be used for internal or external reporting purposes. Cause: Turnover of key staff, change in the accounting system, limited personnel with knowledge and/or the ability to assist and provide needed information to aid in financial statement preparation. The implementation of a new accounting system without an adequate close out of the old system was determined to be the systemic cause. Recommendation: The degree to which the preparation of the financial statements and related disclosures are prepared by the independent auditor is a control deficiency is determined by the knowledge, skills and experience of those in the organization who are charged with the responsibility of its financial reporting. The Agency has hired a new fiscal officer (CFO) and should hire additional staff (grant accountants and a general ledger accountant) to assist the new fiscal officer. New staff should have the adequate skills, knowledge and experience to oversee and/or perform the necessary accounting functions each month. Policies and procedures should be updated to adequately address the challenges and dynamics of the community action agency. We believe that the CFO with the supporting staff and general ledger accountant should have the overall responsibility of properly reconciling and closing out the accounting system and grant activity each month in an efficient and timely manner so as to eliminate the risk of significant errors occurring. Budget-to-actual schedules should be an integral part of the grant accountant?s basic responsibilities. Program directors should be involved in the closing process. We further recommend that training be provided to all staff engaged in the financial reporting, allocations and reconciliation functions to ensure that a complete and accurate financial statement close out process is achieved each month and annually. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management is in the process of assessing the organizational structure and capacity to provide adequate financial reporting. With Board review and approval of the agency?s financial funding sources, the agency will hire additional fiscal clerk to further support financial requirements and segregation of duties to ensure adequate internal controls are fully implemented. The CFO will have the overall responsibility of properly reconciling and closing out the accounting system and grant activity each month in an efficient and timely manner to eliminate the risk of significant errors occurring. Budget-to-actual schedules will be an integral part of the grant accountant analyst?s basic responsibilities. The fiscal policies and procedures will be updated with the enhancements implemented within the fiscal department. Staff will be trained on revised policies and procedures and uniform guidance regulations. The new automated financial system, will support financial reporting to meet GAAP requirements and to provide informative reports for Board and Management. All enhancements will be implemented by December 31, 2023.
Condition: As part of our auditing procedures, we assisted in the preparation of the financial statements, related disclosures, and the schedule of expenditures of federal awards of the Agency. The preparation of these financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, is the responsibility of the grantee. The authoritative and regulatory standards state in summary that management should authorize, process, reconcile and close out each grant and contract in a timely manner to ensure proper accounting and reporting of such activity in accordance with the specific professional standards and regulatory requirements. The close out process is designed to reduce the risk of errors, fraud, material misstatement of financial and compliance reporting and recognition of expenditures (or revenue) in the proper period. We noted that the current system of internal controls over financial statements and compliance is not designed to ensure that the objectives are achieved. Further, the capacity and experience of the current staff do not allow for adequate analysis of grants and contracts, proper allocations of shared costs and support services provided, grantor receivables, deferred revenue, and the reconciliation of bank accounts accurately and in a timely manner. This resulted in adjustments necessary to properly present the financial statements and disclosures of the Agency as of July 31, 2022. We also noted significant weaknesses in internal controls over personnel payroll and the processing, maintaining and reconciling payroll activity to the general ledger and external regulatory reporting (IRS Form 941's, state filings, etc.) Therefore, the risk exists that grant receivables and/or cash from the various programs are not recorded properly during the reporting period (interim and annually). This condition also makes it difficult to prepare accurate external reports required by the various funding sources in a timely manner (i.e., SF-425, LIHEAP reporting, etc.). The systemic cause appears to be the untimely resignation of key personnel, a change in the accounting system, a lack of personnel with the skills, knowledge, and experience with grant accounting and a weakness in the overall system of internal accounting controls and monitoring. Policies and procedures are not followed consistently throughout the year. Context: Review of internal control structure of the organization in accordance with Government Auditing Standards. Criteria: Controls should be in place to ensure that financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP. The auditee shall prepare financial statements that reflect its financial position, results of operations or changes in net assets, and, where appropriate, cash flows for the fiscal year audited. The auditee shall also prepare a schedule of expenditures of Federal awards for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements. [2 CFR ?200.510(a) and (b)] Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in ??200.327 Financial reporting and 200.328 Monitoring and reporting program performance [2 CFR ?200.302(b)(2)]. Effect: Management may not be able to obtain complete and accurate financial statements on an interim or fiscal year basis to be used for internal or external reporting purposes. Cause: Turnover of key staff, change in the accounting system, limited personnel with knowledge and/or the ability to assist and provide needed information to aid in financial statement preparation. The implementation of a new accounting system without an adequate close out of the old system was determined to be the systemic cause. Recommendation: The degree to which the preparation of the financial statements and related disclosures are prepared by the independent auditor is a control deficiency is determined by the knowledge, skills and experience of those in the organization who are charged with the responsibility of its financial reporting. The Agency has hired a new fiscal officer (CFO) and should hire additional staff (grant accountants and a general ledger accountant) to assist the new fiscal officer. New staff should have the adequate skills, knowledge and experience to oversee and/or perform the necessary accounting functions each month. Policies and procedures should be updated to adequately address the challenges and dynamics of the community action agency. We believe that the CFO with the supporting staff and general ledger accountant should have the overall responsibility of properly reconciling and closing out the accounting system and grant activity each month in an efficient and timely manner so as to eliminate the risk of significant errors occurring. Budget-to-actual schedules should be an integral part of the grant accountant?s basic responsibilities. Program directors should be involved in the closing process. We further recommend that training be provided to all staff engaged in the financial reporting, allocations and reconciliation functions to ensure that a complete and accurate financial statement close out process is achieved each month and annually. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management is in the process of assessing the organizational structure and capacity to provide adequate financial reporting. With Board review and approval of the agency?s financial funding sources, the agency will hire additional fiscal clerk to further support financial requirements and segregation of duties to ensure adequate internal controls are fully implemented. The CFO will have the overall responsibility of properly reconciling and closing out the accounting system and grant activity each month in an efficient and timely manner to eliminate the risk of significant errors occurring. Budget-to-actual schedules will be an integral part of the grant accountant analyst?s basic responsibilities. The fiscal policies and procedures will be updated with the enhancements implemented within the fiscal department. Staff will be trained on revised policies and procedures and uniform guidance regulations. The new automated financial system, will support financial reporting to meet GAAP requirements and to provide informative reports for Board and Management. All enhancements will be implemented by December 31, 2023.
Condition: As part of our auditing procedures, we assisted in the preparation of the financial statements, related disclosures, and the schedule of expenditures of federal awards of the Agency. The preparation of these financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, is the responsibility of the grantee. The authoritative and regulatory standards state in summary that management should authorize, process, reconcile and close out each grant and contract in a timely manner to ensure proper accounting and reporting of such activity in accordance with the specific professional standards and regulatory requirements. The close out process is designed to reduce the risk of errors, fraud, material misstatement of financial and compliance reporting and recognition of expenditures (or revenue) in the proper period. We noted that the current system of internal controls over financial statements and compliance is not designed to ensure that the objectives are achieved. Further, the capacity and experience of the current staff do not allow for adequate analysis of grants and contracts, proper allocations of shared costs and support services provided, grantor receivables, deferred revenue, and the reconciliation of bank accounts accurately and in a timely manner. This resulted in adjustments necessary to properly present the financial statements and disclosures of the Agency as of July 31, 2022. We also noted significant weaknesses in internal controls over personnel payroll and the processing, maintaining and reconciling payroll activity to the general ledger and external regulatory reporting (IRS Form 941's, state filings, etc.) Therefore, the risk exists that grant receivables and/or cash from the various programs are not recorded properly during the reporting period (interim and annually). This condition also makes it difficult to prepare accurate external reports required by the various funding sources in a timely manner (i.e., SF-425, LIHEAP reporting, etc.). The systemic cause appears to be the untimely resignation of key personnel, a change in the accounting system, a lack of personnel with the skills, knowledge, and experience with grant accounting and a weakness in the overall system of internal accounting controls and monitoring. Policies and procedures are not followed consistently throughout the year. Context: Review of internal control structure of the organization in accordance with Government Auditing Standards. Criteria: Controls should be in place to ensure that financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP. The auditee shall prepare financial statements that reflect its financial position, results of operations or changes in net assets, and, where appropriate, cash flows for the fiscal year audited. The auditee shall also prepare a schedule of expenditures of Federal awards for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements. [2 CFR ?200.510(a) and (b)] Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in ??200.327 Financial reporting and 200.328 Monitoring and reporting program performance [2 CFR ?200.302(b)(2)]. Effect: Management may not be able to obtain complete and accurate financial statements on an interim or fiscal year basis to be used for internal or external reporting purposes. Cause: Turnover of key staff, change in the accounting system, limited personnel with knowledge and/or the ability to assist and provide needed information to aid in financial statement preparation. The implementation of a new accounting system without an adequate close out of the old system was determined to be the systemic cause. Recommendation: The degree to which the preparation of the financial statements and related disclosures are prepared by the independent auditor is a control deficiency is determined by the knowledge, skills and experience of those in the organization who are charged with the responsibility of its financial reporting. The Agency has hired a new fiscal officer (CFO) and should hire additional staff (grant accountants and a general ledger accountant) to assist the new fiscal officer. New staff should have the adequate skills, knowledge and experience to oversee and/or perform the necessary accounting functions each month. Policies and procedures should be updated to adequately address the challenges and dynamics of the community action agency. We believe that the CFO with the supporting staff and general ledger accountant should have the overall responsibility of properly reconciling and closing out the accounting system and grant activity each month in an efficient and timely manner so as to eliminate the risk of significant errors occurring. Budget-to-actual schedules should be an integral part of the grant accountant?s basic responsibilities. Program directors should be involved in the closing process. We further recommend that training be provided to all staff engaged in the financial reporting, allocations and reconciliation functions to ensure that a complete and accurate financial statement close out process is achieved each month and annually. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management is in the process of assessing the organizational structure and capacity to provide adequate financial reporting. With Board review and approval of the agency?s financial funding sources, the agency will hire additional fiscal clerk to further support financial requirements and segregation of duties to ensure adequate internal controls are fully implemented. The CFO will have the overall responsibility of properly reconciling and closing out the accounting system and grant activity each month in an efficient and timely manner to eliminate the risk of significant errors occurring. Budget-to-actual schedules will be an integral part of the grant accountant analyst?s basic responsibilities. The fiscal policies and procedures will be updated with the enhancements implemented within the fiscal department. Staff will be trained on revised policies and procedures and uniform guidance regulations. The new automated financial system, will support financial reporting to meet GAAP requirements and to provide informative reports for Board and Management. All enhancements will be implemented by December 31, 2023.
Federal programs: Education Stabilization Fund - Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) CFDA Number: 84.425E / 84.425F Federal award identification number: P425E205418 / P425F204999 Grant period: September 29, 2020 to June 30, 2023 and July 23, 2020 to May 23, 2022 Federal agency: U.S. Department of Education Pass-through entity: N/A Category: Internal Control Finding Type: Material Weakness Compliance requirement: Other ? Policies and procedures requirements Condition and context When obtaining an understanding of the internal controls, policies, and procedures regarding the administration of federal programs, and grant term and conditions, we noted the following deficiencies: a. There is no written policy, nor the procedures designed and implemented by the Institution related to Cash Management were documented. The Institution opted to request the funds on a reimbursement basis. b. There were no written procedures for determining the allowability of costs in accordance with 2 CFR 200 subpart E of this part and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. c. After examination of the Institution procurement policy, we noted that the document was not signed by all members required from management and was not dated. Upon inquiry, we noted that the procurement policy was drafted and submitted to the Institution for review in February 2023. Therefore, no written policy and formal procedures were designed and implemented for the procurement transactions tested for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2022 and thereafter. Criteria 2 CFR 200.302 (b) (6) and (7) establish that the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following: written procedures to implement the requirements of ? 200.305, and written procedures for determining the allowability of costs in accordance with subpart E of this part and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. 2 CFR 200.303 establish that the non-Federal entity must: (a) establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in ?Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government? issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the ?Internal Control Integrated Framework?, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO); (b) comply with the U.S. Constitution, Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal awards; (c) evaluate and monitor the non-Federal entity's compliance with statutes, regulations and the terms and conditions of Federal awards; (d) take prompt action when instances of noncompliance are identified including noncompliance identified in audit findings; and (e) take reasonable measures to safeguard protected personally identifiable information and other information the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity designates as sensitive or the non-Federal entity considers sensitive consistent with applicable Federal, State, local, and tribal laws regarding privacy and responsibility over confidentiality. 2 CFR 200.318 (a) establishes that the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR 200.400 (a) to (d) establish that the application of these cost principles is based on the fundamental premises that: (a) the non-Federal entity is responsible for the efficient and effective administration of the Federal award through the application of sound management practices; (b) the non-Federal entity assumes responsibility for administering Federal funds in a manner consistent with underlying agreements, program objectives, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award; (c) the non-Federal entity, in recognition of its own unique combination of staff, facilities, and experience, has the primary responsibility for employing whatever form of sound organization and management techniques may be necessary in order to assure proper and efficient administration of the Federal award; (d) the application of these cost principles should require no significant changes in the internal accounting policies and practices of the non-Federal entity. However, the accounting practices of the non-Federal entity must be consistent with these cost principles and support the accumulation of costs as required by the principles and must provide for adequate documentation to support costs charged to the Federal award. Cause The Institution?s federal programs received prior the fiscal year ended July 31, 2020 did not require the implementation of written procedures as mentioned in the condition and context section, except for Cash Management policies and procedures for the Student Financial Assistance Programs Cluster for which the Institution has designed and implemented written procedures for such compliance requirement. The Covid-19 pandemic related programs were the reason why this new federal program funds were received, and the entity failed to design and implement on a timely basis the required written documentation and procedures. Effect Noncompliance with the above-mentioned requirement could lead to administrative sanctions by the grantor, including disallowance of costs. It could also be interpreted as a failure to achieve the program?s objectives. Questioned costs None. Identification as a Repeat Finding No repeated finding. Recommendation We recommend the Institution to implement written policies and procedures needed for the administration of federal grants before the acceptance of new grants. Having well sounded policies and procedures will reduce the Institution risk of non-compliance with federal regulations and grants terms and conditions. Also, they will provide guidance to the Institution?s personnel on how to carry-out their responsibilities and functions in relation to the administration of federal programs transactions. Views of Responsible Officials Refer to the Institutional comments included in the Corrective Action Plan.
Federal programs: Education Stabilization Fund - Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) CFDA Number: 84.425E / 84.425F Federal award identification number: P425E205418 / P425F204999 Grant period: September 29, 2020 to June 30, 2023 and July 23, 2020 to May 23, 2022 Federal agency: U.S. Department of Education Pass-through entity: N/A Category: Internal Control Finding Type: Material Weakness Compliance requirement: Other ? Policies and procedures requirements Condition and context When obtaining an understanding of the internal controls, policies, and procedures regarding the administration of federal programs, and grant term and conditions, we noted the following deficiencies: a. There is no written policy, nor the procedures designed and implemented by the Institution related to Cash Management were documented. The Institution opted to request the funds on a reimbursement basis. b. There were no written procedures for determining the allowability of costs in accordance with 2 CFR 200 subpart E of this part and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. c. After examination of the Institution procurement policy, we noted that the document was not signed by all members required from management and was not dated. Upon inquiry, we noted that the procurement policy was drafted and submitted to the Institution for review in February 2023. Therefore, no written policy and formal procedures were designed and implemented for the procurement transactions tested for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2022 and thereafter. Criteria 2 CFR 200.302 (b) (6) and (7) establish that the financial management system of each non-Federal entity must provide for the following: written procedures to implement the requirements of ? 200.305, and written procedures for determining the allowability of costs in accordance with subpart E of this part and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. 2 CFR 200.303 establish that the non-Federal entity must: (a) establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in ?Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government? issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the ?Internal Control Integrated Framework?, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO); (b) comply with the U.S. Constitution, Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal awards; (c) evaluate and monitor the non-Federal entity's compliance with statutes, regulations and the terms and conditions of Federal awards; (d) take prompt action when instances of noncompliance are identified including noncompliance identified in audit findings; and (e) take reasonable measures to safeguard protected personally identifiable information and other information the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity designates as sensitive or the non-Federal entity considers sensitive consistent with applicable Federal, State, local, and tribal laws regarding privacy and responsibility over confidentiality. 2 CFR 200.318 (a) establishes that the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR 200.400 (a) to (d) establish that the application of these cost principles is based on the fundamental premises that: (a) the non-Federal entity is responsible for the efficient and effective administration of the Federal award through the application of sound management practices; (b) the non-Federal entity assumes responsibility for administering Federal funds in a manner consistent with underlying agreements, program objectives, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award; (c) the non-Federal entity, in recognition of its own unique combination of staff, facilities, and experience, has the primary responsibility for employing whatever form of sound organization and management techniques may be necessary in order to assure proper and efficient administration of the Federal award; (d) the application of these cost principles should require no significant changes in the internal accounting policies and practices of the non-Federal entity. However, the accounting practices of the non-Federal entity must be consistent with these cost principles and support the accumulation of costs as required by the principles and must provide for adequate documentation to support costs charged to the Federal award. Cause The Institution?s federal programs received prior the fiscal year ended July 31, 2020 did not require the implementation of written procedures as mentioned in the condition and context section, except for Cash Management policies and procedures for the Student Financial Assistance Programs Cluster for which the Institution has designed and implemented written procedures for such compliance requirement. The Covid-19 pandemic related programs were the reason why this new federal program funds were received, and the entity failed to design and implement on a timely basis the required written documentation and procedures. Effect Noncompliance with the above-mentioned requirement could lead to administrative sanctions by the grantor, including disallowance of costs. It could also be interpreted as a failure to achieve the program?s objectives. Questioned costs None. Identification as a Repeat Finding No repeated finding. Recommendation We recommend the Institution to implement written policies and procedures needed for the administration of federal grants before the acceptance of new grants. Having well sounded policies and procedures will reduce the Institution risk of non-compliance with federal regulations and grants terms and conditions. Also, they will provide guidance to the Institution?s personnel on how to carry-out their responsibilities and functions in relation to the administration of federal programs transactions. Views of Responsible Officials Refer to the Institutional comments included in the Corrective Action Plan.
Condition: As part of our auditing procedures, we assisted in the preparation of the financial statements, related disclosures, and the schedule of expenditures of federal awards of the Agency. The preparation of these financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, is the responsibility of the grantee. The authoritative and regulatory standards state in summary that management should authorize, process, reconcile and close out each grant and contract in a timely manner to ensure proper accounting and reporting of such activity in accordance with the specific professional standards and regulatory requirements. The close out process is designed to reduce the risk of errors, fraud, material misstatement of financial and compliance reporting and recognition of expenditures (or revenue) in the proper period. We noted that the current system of internal controls over financial statements and compliance is not designed to ensure that the objectives are achieved. Further, the capacity and experience of the current staff do not allow for adequate analysis of grants and contracts, proper allocations of shared costs and support services provided, grantor receivables, deferred revenue, and the reconciliation of bank accounts accurately and in a timely manner. This resulted in adjustments necessary to properly present the financial statements and disclosures of the Agency as of July 31, 2022. We also noted significant weaknesses in internal controls over personnel payroll and the processing, maintaining and reconciling payroll activity to the general ledger and external regulatory reporting (IRS Form 941's, state filings, etc.) Therefore, the risk exists that grant receivables and/or cash from the various programs are not recorded properly during the reporting period (interim and annually). This condition also makes it difficult to prepare accurate external reports required by the various funding sources in a timely manner (i.e., SF-425, LIHEAP reporting, etc.). The systemic cause appears to be the untimely resignation of key personnel, a change in the accounting system, a lack of personnel with the skills, knowledge, and experience with grant accounting and a weakness in the overall system of internal accounting controls and monitoring. Policies and procedures are not followed consistently throughout the year. Context: Review of internal control structure of the organization in accordance with Government Auditing Standards. Criteria: Controls should be in place to ensure that financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP. The auditee shall prepare financial statements that reflect its financial position, results of operations or changes in net assets, and, where appropriate, cash flows for the fiscal year audited. The auditee shall also prepare a schedule of expenditures of Federal awards for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements. [2 CFR ?200.510(a) and (b)] Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in ??200.327 Financial reporting and 200.328 Monitoring and reporting program performance [2 CFR ?200.302(b)(2)]. Effect: Management may not be able to obtain complete and accurate financial statements on an interim or fiscal year basis to be used for internal or external reporting purposes. Cause: Turnover of key staff, change in the accounting system, limited personnel with knowledge and/or the ability to assist and provide needed information to aid in financial statement preparation. The implementation of a new accounting system without an adequate close out of the old system was determined to be the systemic cause. Recommendation: The degree to which the preparation of the financial statements and related disclosures are prepared by the independent auditor is a control deficiency is determined by the knowledge, skills and experience of those in the organization who are charged with the responsibility of its financial reporting. The Agency has hired a new fiscal officer (CFO) and should hire additional staff (grant accountants and a general ledger accountant) to assist the new fiscal officer. New staff should have the adequate skills, knowledge and experience to oversee and/or perform the necessary accounting functions each month. Policies and procedures should be updated to adequately address the challenges and dynamics of the community action agency. We believe that the CFO with the supporting staff and general ledger accountant should have the overall responsibility of properly reconciling and closing out the accounting system and grant activity each month in an efficient and timely manner so as to eliminate the risk of significant errors occurring. Budget-to-actual schedules should be an integral part of the grant accountant?s basic responsibilities. Program directors should be involved in the closing process. We further recommend that training be provided to all staff engaged in the financial reporting, allocations and reconciliation functions to ensure that a complete and accurate financial statement close out process is achieved each month and annually. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management is in the process of assessing the organizational structure and capacity to provide adequate financial reporting. With Board review and approval of the agency?s financial funding sources, the agency will hire additional fiscal clerk to further support financial requirements and segregation of duties to ensure adequate internal controls are fully implemented. The CFO will have the overall responsibility of properly reconciling and closing out the accounting system and grant activity each month in an efficient and timely manner to eliminate the risk of significant errors occurring. Budget-to-actual schedules will be an integral part of the grant accountant analyst?s basic responsibilities. The fiscal policies and procedures will be updated with the enhancements implemented within the fiscal department. Staff will be trained on revised policies and procedures and uniform guidance regulations. The new automated financial system, will support financial reporting to meet GAAP requirements and to provide informative reports for Board and Management. All enhancements will be implemented by December 31, 2023.
Condition: As part of our auditing procedures, we assisted in the preparation of the financial statements, related disclosures, and the schedule of expenditures of federal awards of the Agency. The preparation of these financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, is the responsibility of the grantee. The authoritative and regulatory standards state in summary that management should authorize, process, reconcile and close out each grant and contract in a timely manner to ensure proper accounting and reporting of such activity in accordance with the specific professional standards and regulatory requirements. The close out process is designed to reduce the risk of errors, fraud, material misstatement of financial and compliance reporting and recognition of expenditures (or revenue) in the proper period. We noted that the current system of internal controls over financial statements and compliance is not designed to ensure that the objectives are achieved. Further, the capacity and experience of the current staff do not allow for adequate analysis of grants and contracts, proper allocations of shared costs and support services provided, grantor receivables, deferred revenue, and the reconciliation of bank accounts accurately and in a timely manner. This resulted in adjustments necessary to properly present the financial statements and disclosures of the Agency as of July 31, 2022. We also noted significant weaknesses in internal controls over personnel payroll and the processing, maintaining and reconciling payroll activity to the general ledger and external regulatory reporting (IRS Form 941's, state filings, etc.) Therefore, the risk exists that grant receivables and/or cash from the various programs are not recorded properly during the reporting period (interim and annually). This condition also makes it difficult to prepare accurate external reports required by the various funding sources in a timely manner (i.e., SF-425, LIHEAP reporting, etc.). The systemic cause appears to be the untimely resignation of key personnel, a change in the accounting system, a lack of personnel with the skills, knowledge, and experience with grant accounting and a weakness in the overall system of internal accounting controls and monitoring. Policies and procedures are not followed consistently throughout the year. Context: Review of internal control structure of the organization in accordance with Government Auditing Standards. Criteria: Controls should be in place to ensure that financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP. The auditee shall prepare financial statements that reflect its financial position, results of operations or changes in net assets, and, where appropriate, cash flows for the fiscal year audited. The auditee shall also prepare a schedule of expenditures of Federal awards for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements. [2 CFR ?200.510(a) and (b)] Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in ??200.327 Financial reporting and 200.328 Monitoring and reporting program performance [2 CFR ?200.302(b)(2)]. Effect: Management may not be able to obtain complete and accurate financial statements on an interim or fiscal year basis to be used for internal or external reporting purposes. Cause: Turnover of key staff, change in the accounting system, limited personnel with knowledge and/or the ability to assist and provide needed information to aid in financial statement preparation. The implementation of a new accounting system without an adequate close out of the old system was determined to be the systemic cause. Recommendation: The degree to which the preparation of the financial statements and related disclosures are prepared by the independent auditor is a control deficiency is determined by the knowledge, skills and experience of those in the organization who are charged with the responsibility of its financial reporting. The Agency has hired a new fiscal officer (CFO) and should hire additional staff (grant accountants and a general ledger accountant) to assist the new fiscal officer. New staff should have the adequate skills, knowledge and experience to oversee and/or perform the necessary accounting functions each month. Policies and procedures should be updated to adequately address the challenges and dynamics of the community action agency. We believe that the CFO with the supporting staff and general ledger accountant should have the overall responsibility of properly reconciling and closing out the accounting system and grant activity each month in an efficient and timely manner so as to eliminate the risk of significant errors occurring. Budget-to-actual schedules should be an integral part of the grant accountant?s basic responsibilities. Program directors should be involved in the closing process. We further recommend that training be provided to all staff engaged in the financial reporting, allocations and reconciliation functions to ensure that a complete and accurate financial statement close out process is achieved each month and annually. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management is in the process of assessing the organizational structure and capacity to provide adequate financial reporting. With Board review and approval of the agency?s financial funding sources, the agency will hire additional fiscal clerk to further support financial requirements and segregation of duties to ensure adequate internal controls are fully implemented. The CFO will have the overall responsibility of properly reconciling and closing out the accounting system and grant activity each month in an efficient and timely manner to eliminate the risk of significant errors occurring. Budget-to-actual schedules will be an integral part of the grant accountant analyst?s basic responsibilities. The fiscal policies and procedures will be updated with the enhancements implemented within the fiscal department. Staff will be trained on revised policies and procedures and uniform guidance regulations. The new automated financial system, will support financial reporting to meet GAAP requirements and to provide informative reports for Board and Management. All enhancements will be implemented by December 31, 2023.
Condition: As part of our auditing procedures, we assisted in the preparation of the financial statements, related disclosures, and the schedule of expenditures of federal awards of the Agency. The preparation of these financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, is the responsibility of the grantee. The authoritative and regulatory standards state in summary that management should authorize, process, reconcile and close out each grant and contract in a timely manner to ensure proper accounting and reporting of such activity in accordance with the specific professional standards and regulatory requirements. The close out process is designed to reduce the risk of errors, fraud, material misstatement of financial and compliance reporting and recognition of expenditures (or revenue) in the proper period. We noted that the current system of internal controls over financial statements and compliance is not designed to ensure that the objectives are achieved. Further, the capacity and experience of the current staff do not allow for adequate analysis of grants and contracts, proper allocations of shared costs and support services provided, grantor receivables, deferred revenue, and the reconciliation of bank accounts accurately and in a timely manner. This resulted in adjustments necessary to properly present the financial statements and disclosures of the Agency as of July 31, 2022. We also noted significant weaknesses in internal controls over personnel payroll and the processing, maintaining and reconciling payroll activity to the general ledger and external regulatory reporting (IRS Form 941's, state filings, etc.) Therefore, the risk exists that grant receivables and/or cash from the various programs are not recorded properly during the reporting period (interim and annually). This condition also makes it difficult to prepare accurate external reports required by the various funding sources in a timely manner (i.e., SF-425, LIHEAP reporting, etc.). The systemic cause appears to be the untimely resignation of key personnel, a change in the accounting system, a lack of personnel with the skills, knowledge, and experience with grant accounting and a weakness in the overall system of internal accounting controls and monitoring. Policies and procedures are not followed consistently throughout the year. Context: Review of internal control structure of the organization in accordance with Government Auditing Standards. Criteria: Controls should be in place to ensure that financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP. The auditee shall prepare financial statements that reflect its financial position, results of operations or changes in net assets, and, where appropriate, cash flows for the fiscal year audited. The auditee shall also prepare a schedule of expenditures of Federal awards for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements. [2 CFR ?200.510(a) and (b)] Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in ??200.327 Financial reporting and 200.328 Monitoring and reporting program performance [2 CFR ?200.302(b)(2)]. Effect: Management may not be able to obtain complete and accurate financial statements on an interim or fiscal year basis to be used for internal or external reporting purposes. Cause: Turnover of key staff, change in the accounting system, limited personnel with knowledge and/or the ability to assist and provide needed information to aid in financial statement preparation. The implementation of a new accounting system without an adequate close out of the old system was determined to be the systemic cause. Recommendation: The degree to which the preparation of the financial statements and related disclosures are prepared by the independent auditor is a control deficiency is determined by the knowledge, skills and experience of those in the organization who are charged with the responsibility of its financial reporting. The Agency has hired a new fiscal officer (CFO) and should hire additional staff (grant accountants and a general ledger accountant) to assist the new fiscal officer. New staff should have the adequate skills, knowledge and experience to oversee and/or perform the necessary accounting functions each month. Policies and procedures should be updated to adequately address the challenges and dynamics of the community action agency. We believe that the CFO with the supporting staff and general ledger accountant should have the overall responsibility of properly reconciling and closing out the accounting system and grant activity each month in an efficient and timely manner so as to eliminate the risk of significant errors occurring. Budget-to-actual schedules should be an integral part of the grant accountant?s basic responsibilities. Program directors should be involved in the closing process. We further recommend that training be provided to all staff engaged in the financial reporting, allocations and reconciliation functions to ensure that a complete and accurate financial statement close out process is achieved each month and annually. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management is in the process of assessing the organizational structure and capacity to provide adequate financial reporting. With Board review and approval of the agency?s financial funding sources, the agency will hire additional fiscal clerk to further support financial requirements and segregation of duties to ensure adequate internal controls are fully implemented. The CFO will have the overall responsibility of properly reconciling and closing out the accounting system and grant activity each month in an efficient and timely manner to eliminate the risk of significant errors occurring. Budget-to-actual schedules will be an integral part of the grant accountant analyst?s basic responsibilities. The fiscal policies and procedures will be updated with the enhancements implemented within the fiscal department. Staff will be trained on revised policies and procedures and uniform guidance regulations. The new automated financial system, will support financial reporting to meet GAAP requirements and to provide informative reports for Board and Management. All enhancements will be implemented by December 31, 2023.
Condition: As part of our auditing procedures, we assisted in the preparation of the financial statements, related disclosures, and the schedule of expenditures of federal awards of the Agency. The preparation of these financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, is the responsibility of the grantee. The authoritative and regulatory standards state in summary that management should authorize, process, reconcile and close out each grant and contract in a timely manner to ensure proper accounting and reporting of such activity in accordance with the specific professional standards and regulatory requirements. The close out process is designed to reduce the risk of errors, fraud, material misstatement of financial and compliance reporting and recognition of expenditures (or revenue) in the proper period. We noted that the current system of internal controls over financial statements and compliance is not designed to ensure that the objectives are achieved. Further, the capacity and experience of the current staff do not allow for adequate analysis of grants and contracts, proper allocations of shared costs and support services provided, grantor receivables, deferred revenue, and the reconciliation of bank accounts accurately and in a timely manner. This resulted in adjustments necessary to properly present the financial statements and disclosures of the Agency as of July 31, 2022. We also noted significant weaknesses in internal controls over personnel payroll and the processing, maintaining and reconciling payroll activity to the general ledger and external regulatory reporting (IRS Form 941's, state filings, etc.) Therefore, the risk exists that grant receivables and/or cash from the various programs are not recorded properly during the reporting period (interim and annually). This condition also makes it difficult to prepare accurate external reports required by the various funding sources in a timely manner (i.e., SF-425, LIHEAP reporting, etc.). The systemic cause appears to be the untimely resignation of key personnel, a change in the accounting system, a lack of personnel with the skills, knowledge, and experience with grant accounting and a weakness in the overall system of internal accounting controls and monitoring. Policies and procedures are not followed consistently throughout the year. Context: Review of internal control structure of the organization in accordance with Government Auditing Standards. Criteria: Controls should be in place to ensure that financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP. The auditee shall prepare financial statements that reflect its financial position, results of operations or changes in net assets, and, where appropriate, cash flows for the fiscal year audited. The auditee shall also prepare a schedule of expenditures of Federal awards for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements. [2 CFR ?200.510(a) and (b)] Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in ??200.327 Financial reporting and 200.328 Monitoring and reporting program performance [2 CFR ?200.302(b)(2)]. Effect: Management may not be able to obtain complete and accurate financial statements on an interim or fiscal year basis to be used for internal or external reporting purposes. Cause: Turnover of key staff, change in the accounting system, limited personnel with knowledge and/or the ability to assist and provide needed information to aid in financial statement preparation. The implementation of a new accounting system without an adequate close out of the old system was determined to be the systemic cause. Recommendation: The degree to which the preparation of the financial statements and related disclosures are prepared by the independent auditor is a control deficiency is determined by the knowledge, skills and experience of those in the organization who are charged with the responsibility of its financial reporting. The Agency has hired a new fiscal officer (CFO) and should hire additional staff (grant accountants and a general ledger accountant) to assist the new fiscal officer. New staff should have the adequate skills, knowledge and experience to oversee and/or perform the necessary accounting functions each month. Policies and procedures should be updated to adequately address the challenges and dynamics of the community action agency. We believe that the CFO with the supporting staff and general ledger accountant should have the overall responsibility of properly reconciling and closing out the accounting system and grant activity each month in an efficient and timely manner so as to eliminate the risk of significant errors occurring. Budget-to-actual schedules should be an integral part of the grant accountant?s basic responsibilities. Program directors should be involved in the closing process. We further recommend that training be provided to all staff engaged in the financial reporting, allocations and reconciliation functions to ensure that a complete and accurate financial statement close out process is achieved each month and annually. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management is in the process of assessing the organizational structure and capacity to provide adequate financial reporting. With Board review and approval of the agency?s financial funding sources, the agency will hire additional fiscal clerk to further support financial requirements and segregation of duties to ensure adequate internal controls are fully implemented. The CFO will have the overall responsibility of properly reconciling and closing out the accounting system and grant activity each month in an efficient and timely manner to eliminate the risk of significant errors occurring. Budget-to-actual schedules will be an integral part of the grant accountant analyst?s basic responsibilities. The fiscal policies and procedures will be updated with the enhancements implemented within the fiscal department. Staff will be trained on revised policies and procedures and uniform guidance regulations. The new automated financial system, will support financial reporting to meet GAAP requirements and to provide informative reports for Board and Management. All enhancements will be implemented by December 31, 2023.
Condition: As part of our auditing procedures, we assisted in the preparation of the financial statements, related disclosures, and the schedule of expenditures of federal awards of the Agency. The preparation of these financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, is the responsibility of the grantee. The authoritative and regulatory standards state in summary that management should authorize, process, reconcile and close out each grant and contract in a timely manner to ensure proper accounting and reporting of such activity in accordance with the specific professional standards and regulatory requirements. The close out process is designed to reduce the risk of errors, fraud, material misstatement of financial and compliance reporting and recognition of expenditures (or revenue) in the proper period. We noted that the current system of internal controls over financial statements and compliance is not designed to ensure that the objectives are achieved. Further, the capacity and experience of the current staff do not allow for adequate analysis of grants and contracts, proper allocations of shared costs and support services provided, grantor receivables, deferred revenue, and the reconciliation of bank accounts accurately and in a timely manner. This resulted in adjustments necessary to properly present the financial statements and disclosures of the Agency as of July 31, 2022. We also noted significant weaknesses in internal controls over personnel payroll and the processing, maintaining and reconciling payroll activity to the general ledger and external regulatory reporting (IRS Form 941's, state filings, etc.) Therefore, the risk exists that grant receivables and/or cash from the various programs are not recorded properly during the reporting period (interim and annually). This condition also makes it difficult to prepare accurate external reports required by the various funding sources in a timely manner (i.e., SF-425, LIHEAP reporting, etc.). The systemic cause appears to be the untimely resignation of key personnel, a change in the accounting system, a lack of personnel with the skills, knowledge, and experience with grant accounting and a weakness in the overall system of internal accounting controls and monitoring. Policies and procedures are not followed consistently throughout the year. Context: Review of internal control structure of the organization in accordance with Government Auditing Standards. Criteria: Controls should be in place to ensure that financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP. The auditee shall prepare financial statements that reflect its financial position, results of operations or changes in net assets, and, where appropriate, cash flows for the fiscal year audited. The auditee shall also prepare a schedule of expenditures of Federal awards for the period covered by the auditee's financial statements. [2 CFR ?200.510(a) and (b)] Accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial results of each Federal award or program in accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in ??200.327 Financial reporting and 200.328 Monitoring and reporting program performance [2 CFR ?200.302(b)(2)]. Effect: Management may not be able to obtain complete and accurate financial statements on an interim or fiscal year basis to be used for internal or external reporting purposes. Cause: Turnover of key staff, change in the accounting system, limited personnel with knowledge and/or the ability to assist and provide needed information to aid in financial statement preparation. The implementation of a new accounting system without an adequate close out of the old system was determined to be the systemic cause. Recommendation: The degree to which the preparation of the financial statements and related disclosures are prepared by the independent auditor is a control deficiency is determined by the knowledge, skills and experience of those in the organization who are charged with the responsibility of its financial reporting. The Agency has hired a new fiscal officer (CFO) and should hire additional staff (grant accountants and a general ledger accountant) to assist the new fiscal officer. New staff should have the adequate skills, knowledge and experience to oversee and/or perform the necessary accounting functions each month. Policies and procedures should be updated to adequately address the challenges and dynamics of the community action agency. We believe that the CFO with the supporting staff and general ledger accountant should have the overall responsibility of properly reconciling and closing out the accounting system and grant activity each month in an efficient and timely manner so as to eliminate the risk of significant errors occurring. Budget-to-actual schedules should be an integral part of the grant accountant?s basic responsibilities. Program directors should be involved in the closing process. We further recommend that training be provided to all staff engaged in the financial reporting, allocations and reconciliation functions to ensure that a complete and accurate financial statement close out process is achieved each month and annually. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management is in the process of assessing the organizational structure and capacity to provide adequate financial reporting. With Board review and approval of the agency?s financial funding sources, the agency will hire additional fiscal clerk to further support financial requirements and segregation of duties to ensure adequate internal controls are fully implemented. The CFO will have the overall responsibility of properly reconciling and closing out the accounting system and grant activity each month in an efficient and timely manner to eliminate the risk of significant errors occurring. Budget-to-actual schedules will be an integral part of the grant accountant analyst?s basic responsibilities. The fiscal policies and procedures will be updated with the enhancements implemented within the fiscal department. Staff will be trained on revised policies and procedures and uniform guidance regulations. The new automated financial system, will support financial reporting to meet GAAP requirements and to provide informative reports for Board and Management. All enhancements will be implemented by December 31, 2023.
2022 ? 001: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Justice Federal Program Name: Crime Victim Services Assistance Listing Number: 16.575 Pass-Through Agency: Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Justice Programs Pass-Through Number(s): A-CVS-2020-CADA-00030 Award Period: October 1, 2019 through September 30, 2021 Type of Finding: ? Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria or specific requirement: Per 2 CFR section 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. Condition: The Organization's procurement policy is limited in terms of documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in ?? 200.317 through 200.327. Questioned costs: None Context: We noted the Organization?s current policy states ?expenditures in excess of $5,000 for the purchase of a single item is required to have bids from three suppliers if possible.? However, the federal guidelines have increased those same thresholds to $10,000 for quotations and $250,000 for sealed bids. The policy is silent as to when sealed bids are required. Cause: The process of ensuring grant requirements are understood. Effect: Procurement transactions may be not be compliant with Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend the Organization update the purchasing section of its current Fiscal Policies and Procedures manual. The updated procedures should at a minimum address general procurement standards. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.