In an audit released today, the Office of the Metro Auditor reviewed progress made on recommendations in the 2010 audit, Payroll and Benefits Programs: Greater coordination can improve processes. The audit was initiated after a report was received in November 2012 on Metro’s Ethics Line alleging several errors in payroll calculations. The errors were confirmed and auditors found other errors that had not yet been discovered. After reviewing progress on the 2010 audit recommendations, auditors found that four of the ten recommendations from the first audit were successfully implemented. Metro is in the process of completing the other six.
The 2010 audit recommended increased interdepartmental cooperation, clearer policies and procedures, reduced manual processes and better controls to ensure data accuracy.
“Recommendations for the benefits program were mostly implemented, while payroll processes needed more work,” Metro Auditor Flynn said. “Management is committed to making these improvements.” The follow-up audit made additional recommendations to build on the progress that was made. In response, management agreed with each of the recommendations and explained how they would be addressed.
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 Thursday, May 30.