During a recent budget committee meeting held on October 24, significant concerns were raised regarding the status of the fiscal year 2022 audit for the circuit clerk's office. The meeting, attended by various board members, began with a call to order and a request for public comments.

One of the primary topics of discussion was the incomplete audit process, which has been a source of confusion among board members. It was clarified that while substantial work had been completed, the audit had not yet been formatted for presentation to the board or submitted to the state comptroller's office. The auditor advised against referring to it as a \"single audit,\" emphasizing that it was specifically an audit of the circuit clerk's office.

Board members expressed frustration over the lack of communication regarding the audit's status, with some believing it had been completed based on previous statements. Concerns were raised about the implications of the incomplete audit, particularly regarding grant funding and the potential for delays in the fiscal year 2023 audit, which is already overdue.

The committee discussed the need for improved communication among board members to ensure everyone is informed about the audit's progress. There were calls for establishing a deadline for the completion of the audit, with suggestions that the auditing firm should be held accountable for delays. The urgency of the situation was underscored by the fact that the board cannot proceed with the fiscal year 2023 audit until the previous year's audit is finalized.

Additionally, the committee acknowledged the importance of transparency and accountability in the auditing process, with members expressing a desire for clearer updates and a more proactive approach to managing the audit timeline. The meeting concluded with a commitment to follow up on the audit's status and to ensure that all board members are kept in the loop moving forward.