FOR RELEASE:

DiNapoli's Office Completes Local Government Audit

State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli today announced his office completed the audit of the Town of Orchard Park in Erie County.

“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.”

Town of Orchard Park Building Energy Program
The town did not periodically compare energy rates available. The town paid rates for natural gas in 2006 and 2007 that were 50 and 10 percent more, respectively, than rates available through the state Office of General Services. Further, the town paid rates for electricity in 2006 and 2007 that were 24 and 11 percent higher, respectively, than the average rates residents pay statewide. By comparing rates and choosing the most economical ones, the town could reduce its energy costs in the future. The town also did not have a formal building energy program, so it has used more energy than necessary. The town could save between $9,000 and $12,000 annually by installing energy-efficient fixtures and signs, and by using programmable thermostats and occupancy sensors. By using the power-down setting on its computers, the town could save another $11,000 annually. In addition, the town estimates it could save from $3,000 to $4,000 per year as a result of using solar panels it has recently installed.

Click here to view the audit above.

If you have any questions or would like a comment from the Comptroller’s office regarding this audit, please contact the Press Office at 518-474-4015, or send an email.

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