In the heart of Springfield City Hall, the Audit Committee convened on May 23, 2025, to discuss crucial oversight plans for the upcoming fiscal year. With a blend of in-person and virtual attendees, including Chairperson Delgado and Counselor Tim Allen, the meeting kicked off with a presentation by Father Yung Ngo, who outlined the annual audit plan for fiscal year 2026 and a performance audit focused on the Parks Department.

Father Ngo emphasized the importance of the annual audit plan, a requirement under city ordinance that sets the agenda for the year ahead. He detailed how the audit team, consisting of three dedicated employees, allocates their time: 50% for performance audits, 30% for training and administrative tasks, and 20% for managing the fraud hotline. This structured approach aims to ensure that the city’s resources are utilized effectively while addressing potential risks.

A significant aspect of the discussion revolved around the risk assessment model used to prioritize audits. Father Ngo explained that various factors, including financial exposure and public impact, are weighed to determine which departments or programs warrant closer scrutiny. Financial exposure was highlighted as the most critical factor, carrying a weight of 25%, while public impact was deemed less significant at 7%. This prompted a thoughtful inquiry from Counselor Allen about the inclusion of reputation as a risk factor, which Father Ngo confirmed is indeed considered under public impact.

The committee also reviewed ongoing projects, including the auditing of student activities, which involves cash handling and is mandated by the state. This audit is part of a three-year rotation with external auditors, ensuring that student funds are managed responsibly. Additionally, the committee plans to conduct follow-up reviews on previous audits to verify that recommendations have been implemented effectively.

Looking ahead, the audit plan includes a cybersecurity review of the Springfield Public Libraries, a performance audit of street maintenance, and an assessment of procurement protocols at the Springfield Empowerment Zone. These initiatives reflect the committee's commitment to safeguarding city operations and ensuring compliance with regulations.

As the meeting concluded, the discussions underscored the vital role of the Audit Committee in maintaining transparency and accountability within Springfield's government. With a clear agenda set for the upcoming fiscal year, the committee is poised to tackle the challenges ahead, ensuring that the city remains a strong and trustworthy entity for its residents.