City receives clean audit from state

The Washington State Auditor’s Office has finished its annual review of the city of Bainbridge Island, and found nothing amiss with the city’s books for 2011.

The Washington State Auditor’s Office has finished its annual review of the city of Bainbridge Island, and found nothing amiss with the city’s books for 2011.

City officials said they have received the state’s official 2011 report, and it contains no findings or suggestions for management changes.

In the accountability audit, state auditors evaluate the city’s internal controls and perform audit procedures on the activities at city hall.

The review also determines whether the city complied with state laws and regulations and its own policies and procedures.

City officials said particular areas of focus for the 2011 audit included utilities, payroll, the city’s financial condition, the police evidence room and property disposition, cost allocation, open public meetings, citizen hotline referrals and building permits.

In the areas examined by the state, auditors determined that the city’s internal controls were adequate to safeguard public assets.

The city also complied with state laws and regulations and its own policies and procedures in the areas examined.

“The city is pleased to receive a clean audit report,” said Finance Director Ellen Schroer. “We work hard throughout the year to be careful stewards of the public’s money, and welcome the auditors’ review of our records, policies and procedures.”