The Office of the Metro Auditor released an audit today reviewing Metro's management of capital construction projects at the Oregon Zoo. The purpose of this audit was to determine if Metro was prepared to implement the set of new Zoo improvement projects funded by a bond measure passed by the voters in 2008.
Auditors reviewed three Oregon Zoo projects in different stages of completion. One was completed in March 2007, one was under construction during the audit, and the other will begin construction next year. Based upon the analysis, auditors concluded that several aspects of the 2008 bond measure program needed to be strengthened.
"The Bond Measure Program is a complex series of projects that will be completed over a 10-12 year period," Metro Auditor Suzanne Flynn said. "It is essential that Metro prepare itself now."
Auditor Flynn noted that previous Zoo construction projects were not as ambitious. In the three cases that were reviewed, costs and schedules were not consistently tracked, responsibilities were not clear, and financial oversight needed improvement.
"Our report recommends several ways Metro can improve how it manages construction projects," Auditor Flynn said. "We highlighted the need to have consistent processes, improve cost estimating and gather data so problems can be anticipated and prevented."
"We are very pleased with senior management's response to this audit," Auditor Flynn added, "Metro realized during the audit that the program required strengthening and started making changes prior to receiving our recommendations."
Copies of the audit may also be obtained by calling the Office of the Metro Auditor at 503-797-1892.