Town of Murray – Capital Projects (2014M-086)

Issued Date
July 11, 2014

Purpose of Audit

The purpose of our audit was to review the Supervisor’s financial records and reports for the period January 1, 2008 through February 25, 2014.

Background

The Town of Murray is located in Orleans County, had a population of approximately 4,988 as of the 2010 Census and is governed by an elected five-member Town Board. Budgeted appropriations for 2014 total approximately $2.2 million.

Key Findings

  • The Board did not properly authorize and monitor all capital projects.
  • The Supervisor did not adequately oversee the Town’s accounting firm’s work.
  • Debt proceeds for two water districts were deposited in a bank account for the water fund and not in a separate bank account as required by the Local Finance Law.

Key Recommendations

  • Establish a maximum authorized amount and identify the funding sources for each capital project.
  • Oversee and monitor the work of the accounting firm to ensure that accounting records are complete and accurate.
  • Ensure that debt proceeds are expended only for the purposes for which such obligations are issued.