School board approves Audit Consultation Project
The School Board of Lee County recently authorized an outside look at its operations.
The board has approved a Memorandum of Understanding for an Audit Consultation Project with the Lee County Clerk of Court’s Inspector General Department.
Board Member Sam Fisher said it is a big first step in many ways, as the board is looking at rebuilding and promoting public trust and transparency. In addition, it will strengthen the School District of Lee County, he said.
“As stewards of taxpayers’ dollars, it will make sure everything is in the right place. It won’t cost taxpayers any additional money,” Fisher said, as they are already paying for it with their tax dollars. “I think it’s a big step. Again we are making sure we are promoting trust and transparency, as well as helping out the district.”
He added that the memorandum will make sure the district’s policies and procedures are proper, as there is always room for improvement.
Clerk of Court and Comptroller Kevin Karnes shared the Audit Consultation Project Proposal during a March 22 meeting. He said he wanted to offer his services to the board as a one-time, no-cost opportunity.
The project would create a partnership that will give the district an independent perspective with a list of value-added recommendations with the school board’s existing audit functions, Karnes said.
The project is designed to promote transparency, enhance public trust, protect taxpayer funds, strengthen operational policies, procedures and practices and provide value added recommendations. The audit is limited to a review of the Internal Audit Department, which includes the organizational structures, staffing levels, policies, procedures and practices.
“Audits are an opportunity to get an independent objection. Taking the opportunity to review what exists, comparing what should be and creating a plan to get to the level of equilibrium,” he said. “Audits are meant to be reactive, build confidence and trust in a process.”
The Memorandum of Understanding will expire on Nov. 1, 2024.
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