An investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office has uncovered deficiencies in the Meigs County Finance Department and the Meigs County School Department, said officials.
Investigators found that Finance Department employees were paid $26,604.17 in unauthorized compensation. The former interim finance director received $24,550 that was in addition to her regular salary. Another former finance director received additional compensation of $1,012.50, and the current finance director received additional compensation of $1,041.67. There was no documentation or authorization on file to support any of these additional payments, said investigators.
Furthermore, detailed time records were not on file to support the payment of $1,201.50 for compensatory leave of the former interim finance director. Leave should not be approved unless it can be supported with adequate time records, said investigators.
Investigators also found the School Department violated its conflict of interest policy by making purchases from a business owned by a school employee. During the period Oct. 1, 2010 through May 28, 2014, the department spent $96,564.44 for supplies from Decatur Plumbing and Electrical Supply. This business is owned by a school maintenance employee and management had reason to suspect a possible conflict of interest existed.
These findings have been reviewed with the district attorney general for the Ninth Judicial District.
“This investigation reveals the vital importance of following proper procedures,” said Comptroller Justin P. Wilson. “Local governments must provide prior authorization and maintain adequate documentation for expenditures. Good record keeping helps the public maintain confidence in their local officials.”
To view the investigation online, go to: http://www.comptroller.tn.gov/ia/.