Finding Text
Reference Number 2025-004 Evaluation of Finding Material Weakness and Noncompliance: Incomplete Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards Condition The City failed to provide a complete schedule of expenditures of federal awards (SEFA) for the fiscal year, leading to inaccuracies pertaining to the ARPA program. This omission resulted in a direct impact on the determination of major programs. Criteria According to the Government Auditing Standards (Yellow Book) and the Uniform Guidance, 2 CFR Part 200, Subpart F—Audit Requirements, sections 200.508 and 200.510, entities receiving federal awards must prepare and submit a complete and accurate SEFA as part of their annual financial reporting. This schedule is crucial for auditors to determine major programs and conduct the necessary audits in compliance with federal regulations. Cause of Condition The incomplete SEFA was caused by a lack of oversight and insufficient internal controls within the City's financial management department. Effect or Potential Effect The failure to provide a complete SEFA has significant implications, including: • Inaccurate determination of major programs, which can affect the scope and quality of the audit process. • Increased risk of non-compliance with federal regulations, potentially leading to financial penalties and loss of federal funding. Recommendation To address this material weakness, the following actions are recommended: • Develop detailed procedures and timelines: Establish and enforce comprehensive procedures and timelines for the preparation and submission of the SEFA to ensure completeness and accuracy. • Enhance staffing and resources: Allocate adequate staffing and resources to the financial management department to support the accurate compilation and timely submission of the SEFA. • Provide comprehensive training: Offer training to financial management staff on the requirements and importance of the SEFA, including techniques for ensuring its accuracy and completeness.. • Regularly audit the SEFA preparation process: Conduct regular audits of the SEFA preparation process to ensure compliance with established policies and procedures and address any deficiencies promptly. This should be completed monthly and at a minimum quarterly. By implementing these recommendations, the City can strengthen its internal controls, improve the accuracy of its financial reporting, and ensure compliance with Government Auditing Standards and other regulatory requirements.