Finding 480306 (2023-003)

Inadequate Records Retention (Procurement) Criteria: Per Federal regulations for general procurement standards (2 CFR § 200.318 (i)), non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of the procurement process. These records will include but are not limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Condition: In our procurement testing for CSLFRF funding, the City was unable to provide evidence that demonstrates public notice was published according to (2 CFR § 200.320(b)) for 1 of the 5 projects selected. Questioned Costs: $0 Cause and Effect: Due to the City not having a centralized repository for procurement records, sufficient evidence was unable to verify that procurements provide full and open competition to potential bidders, as there was a lack of documentation related to the public notice for open bidding to occur. Recommendation: We recommend the City updates their procurement policies and procedures by centrally tracking procurement documents for up to five years. Centrally tracking documentation will help the City mitigate potential contractual and administrative issues related to procurement. Management Response: The Finance Director is initiating conversations with department heads regarding updating procurement policies and procedures. We are taking steps to ensure all procurement documents are stored centrally in order for these items to be readily available moving forward.