State Audit Examines Riverhead Fire District

New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli said on Thursday that his office has completed municipal audits, including one spotlighting the Riverhead Fire District.

“My office's audits of local governments improve their financial management practices," DiNapoli said. "These audits are tools for local officials to make sure proper policies and procedures are in place to protect taxpayer dollars and provide the best possible service these taxpayer dollars can deliver." 

According to the state audit, which focused on the Riverhead Fire District's internal controls over professional services and information technology, the district board, "did not develop adequate procedures for the procurement of professional services."

As a result, the audit says, "district officials did not solicit competitive proposals for any of the nine professionals tested, who were paid a total of $787,697."

Also, the audit states that the board has not adopted a computer use policy or a breach notification policy -- and four individuals have access rights to perform duties that are incompatible with their job duties. 

The audit took place between January, 2010 and September 30, 2011.

According to DiNapoli, the audit results and recommendations are meant to serve as resources for local government officials "to use in effectively managing operations and in meeting the expectations of their constituents."

To read the full audit report, click here.