Finding 636853 (2022-002)

Significant Deficiency
Requirement
I
Questioned Costs
-
Year
2022
Accepted
2023-07-27

AI Summary

  • Core Issue: Cross County did not document formal procurement procedures for purchases over the simplified acquisition threshold of $250,000.
  • Impacted Requirements: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200.320(a), which mandates formal procurement methods like sealed bids and public advertising for higher-value procurements.
  • Recommended Follow-Up: Establish and document a formal procurement policy to ensure compliance with federal requirements for future purchases exceeding the threshold.

Finding Text

Cross County failed to properly document formal procurement procedures for procurement of property or services exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold or lower threshold established in compliance with the Uniform Guidance. Condition When the value of the procurement for property or services under a federal financial assistance award exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, or a lower threshold established by a non-federal entity, formal procurement methods are required. Criteria Per 2 CFR 200.320(a), formal methods of procurement include sealed bids, proposals, and noncompetitive procurement. Formal procurement methods also require public advertising unless a noncompetitive procurement can be used. Cause Cross County never had a contract that exceeded the simplified acquisition threshold of $250,000, therefore did not think formal procurement methods were necessary. Effect or Potential Effect Cross County was not in compliance with federal requirements relating to procurement policies. Recommendation We recommend that Cross County establishes and documents a formal procurement policy that includes the formal procurement methods for property and services procured over the simplified acquisition threshold. Views of Responsible Officials Cross County acknowledges the deficiency with control over procurement processes. However, they did not believe they would ever meet the $250,000 threshold and would go through the formal process if they did. Cross County will review Withum?s recommendation and document a formal procurement policy in accordance with the Uniform Guidance.

Categories

Procurement, Suspension & Debarment

Other Findings in this Audit

  • 60410 2022-001
    Significant Deficiency
  • 60411 2022-002
    Significant Deficiency
  • 636852 2022-001
    Significant Deficiency

Programs in Audit

ALN Program Name Expenditures
20.205 Highway Planning and Construction $165,851
20.600 State and Community Highway Safety $45,519