The Office of the Metro Auditor released an audit today that reviewed the Community Planning and Development Grant program. Over $19 million in grants have been awarded to local governments since 2006. Grants were intended to fund regional and local planning that is required to make land ready for development after its inclusion in the Urban Growth Boundary.
The audit found that the program became less aligned with some regional planning priorities over time. As it changed, what it was trying to accomplish became less clear and there were no performance measures in place to evaluate the program’s outcomes. Local governments found value in the grants, but the program could improve its support to local governments to make participation easier.
Controls to ensure accountability and transparency could also be improved. In some cases, the deliverables for grants were not completed before payments were made. Changes were made to some projects that may not have been consistent with the intent of the original award. In addition, a consistent process to allocate extra funding had not been developed, which could reduce transparency.
“The expected outcomes of the grants evolved, which caused uncertainty.” Metro Auditor Brian Evans said. “Stronger controls, including performance measures, would improve accountability.” Auditor Evans stated that transparency and consistency are important to help Metro balance regional and local planning needs. The audit recommended establishing a performance measurement system, engaging with local governments, and strengthening financial and administrative controls.
The Metro Auditor will brief the Metro Council about this audit on Thursday, March 3, 2016 at 2 p.m.
For more information, contact Brian Evans, Metro Auditor, at 503-797-1891.
Copies of the audit can also be obtained by calling the Office of the Metro Auditor at 503-797-1892.