The Metro Auditor’s Office released an audit today that reviewed Metro’s MWESB procurement program. Metro, similar to other governments, has a program in place that is intended to increase access and participation of minority-owned, woman-owned, and emerging small businesses in its procurement process. This audit examined whether the program was managed effectively to meet its goals and objectives.
To be effective, a program must have clear goals, policies and procedures to implement those goals, and accurate data over time to assess performance. The audit found that improvements could be made in each area. The program had not developed guidelines to ensure that performance measures were calculated in the same way each year and, as a result, information in an annual report might not be reliable. Some activities outlined in Metro code such as a Sheltered Market Program and advertising requirements were
established while others such as outreach and technical assistance were not.
“Metro has been working on improvements in this program and this audit provides feedback to guide further needed efforts,” Metro Auditor Suzanne Flynn said. “This audit also pointed out improvements that could be made in procurement as a whole.” Auditor Flynn stated that Metro first must clarify and strengthen its goals. Once that is done, procedures and performance measures can be improved. She found management receptive to the audit and its recommendations.
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 April 10, 2014.