Metro needs systematic approach to protect smaller assets
October 8, 2014
The Metro Auditor’s Office released an audit today that looked at how well Metro protected assets valued under $5,000 with a useful life of over one year. Metro uses a variety of assets to carry out its programs such as printers, mowers, computers, and animal cages. These assets are a significant public investment.
Metro has procedures in place to manage all assets. Metro departments were responsible for managing small assets. However, for the most part, managers were unaware of their assigned responsibilities and as a result, procedures were not followed. Based upon purchasing records, auditors selected a sample of assets to see if they could be located. Most were found, but six items with a total value of $1,600 could not be located.
“Auditors had to rely on Metro employees to help them locate items,” Metro Auditor Suzanne Flynn said. “There were no formal processes or lists to track and monitor these assets.” Auditor Flynn stated she was pleased that Metro has committed to ensuring that procedures are followed at the departmental level.
For more information, contact Suzanne Flynn, Metro Auditor, at 503-797-1891. The audit is available on the Metro website at http://www.oregonmetro.gov/auditor . Copies of the audit can also be obtained by calling the Office of the Metro Auditor at 503-797-1892. The Metro Auditor will brief the Metro Council on October 23, 2014.