In an audit released today, the Office of the Metro Auditor reviewed progress made on recommendations in the 2011 audit, Frequent Flyer Benefits: More controls needed. Nearly five years after the initial audit was released, three of the six recommendations were not implemented. As a result, some of the same risks identified in the original audit remain. Two recommendations were implemented and one recommendation was no longer relevant.
The 2011 audit found stronger controls over travel practices and ethics were needed. At that time, Metro’s policies did not provide guidance to employees about prohibitions on travel rewards when traveling on Metro business. There were also inconsistencies in travel reimbursements that showed travel policies were not being applied evenly across the agency.
The current review found that Metro’s travel policy was out of date and training was not provided to all travelers. “Weak controls and inconsistent travel practices present financial and reputational risks,” Metro Auditor Brian Evans said. “Real or perceived violations of ethics policies or inadequate financial management can reduce trust in government.” In response, management agreed to adopt a revised travel policy and train employees.
For more information, contact Brian Evans, Metro Auditor, at 503-797-1891.
The audit is available here:
Copies of the audit can also be obtained by calling the Office of the Metro Auditor at 503-797-1892.