Finding 501563 (2023-003)

Significant Deficiency
Requirement
I
Questioned Costs
-
Year
2023
Accepted
2024-10-02
Audit: 323608
Organization: Mexico Water District (ME)
Auditor: Hmv LLC

AI Summary

  • Core Issue: The District lacks a formal Conflict of Interest Policy, which is essential for ethical decision-making and compliance.
  • Impacted Requirements: This absence violates procurement procedures outlined in 2 CFR § 200.318 (c)(1) and local regulations.
  • Recommended Follow-Up: Develop and implement a Conflict of Interest Policy to ensure transparency and mitigate risks associated with unreported conflicts.

Finding Text

The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards identified in 2 CFR § 200.318 (c)(1) for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or sub-award. During the audit period, it was noted that the District does not have a formal Conflict of Interest Policy in place. The absence of such a policy indicates a lack of formal procedures to identify, disclose, and manage potential conflicts of interest among employees, board members, and other stakeholders. The District has not yet developed or implemented a Conflict of Interest Policy, which may be due to oversight or a lack of awareness of the importance of such a policy in maintaining ethical standards and regulatory compliance. The absence of a Conflict of Interest Policy increases the risk of potential conflicts of interest going unreported and unmanaged. This could lead to decisions that are not made in the best interest of the District, potential legal or regulatory issues, and damage to the District's reputation.

Categories

Procurement, Suspension & Debarment Subrecipient Monitoring

Other Findings in this Audit

  • 501558 2023-001
    Material Weakness
  • 501559 2023-002
    Significant Deficiency
  • 501560 2023-003
    Significant Deficiency
  • 501561 2023-001
    Material Weakness
  • 501562 2023-002
    Significant Deficiency
  • 1078000 2023-001
    Material Weakness
  • 1078001 2023-002
    Significant Deficiency
  • 1078002 2023-003
    Significant Deficiency
  • 1078003 2023-001
    Material Weakness
  • 1078004 2023-002
    Significant Deficiency
  • 1078005 2023-003
    Significant Deficiency

Programs in Audit

ALN Program Name Expenditures
10.760 Water and Waste Disposal Systems for Rural Communities $472,346