During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the findings of a comprehensive audit of Fremont County's financial statements, highlighting several key issues and improvements made over the past year. The audit revealed that the county received and spent over $11 million in federal funds during 2022, necessitating a single audit to ensure compliance with federal regulations.

The auditor noted ongoing litigation and the need for transparency regarding the county's financial practices, particularly in light of a cyber attack that disrupted operations and led to staff turnover. These challenges contributed to discrepancies in financial reporting, which were addressed through adjustments during the audit process. The auditor emphasized that while there were findings related to internal controls, there were no indications of missing funds, and the issues were largely attributed to a learning curve for new staff.

Commissioners expressed their commitment to transparency and accountability, acknowledging the difficulties faced during the audit year but affirming that corrective measures have been implemented to prevent future issues. They praised the finance department's efforts in overcoming these challenges and highlighted the importance of maintaining robust internal controls.

Additionally, a citizen raised concerns about the timeliness of audits and the withholding of funds due to late submissions. The citizen requested that the county provide public announcements in the future regarding any financial issues that may affect funding, ensuring that residents are informed about the county's financial health.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's dedication to improving its financial practices and maintaining transparency with its constituents, as officials work to rectify past issues and enhance future audits.