The Garland City Council celebrated a significant achievement during their recent work session on July 21, 2025, as the internal audit department received a commendable peer review rating. The department, adhering to strict governmental auditing standards, successfully passed the evaluation, which assesses compliance and independence in conducting audits.

City Auditor Jed Johnson expressed gratitude to the council and city management for their support, emphasizing the importance of maintaining integrity and objectivity in their work. "This is all about a partnership, working together to achieve what's best for the city and its citizens," Johnson stated, highlighting the collaborative effort involved in the auditing process.

Council members praised the audit team's dedication, with Deputy Mayor Pro Tem acknowledging their hard work and commitment to high standards. The council also discussed the upcoming School Resource Officer (SRO) audit, which will focus on budgetary aspects and will be revisited once further information is gathered from the GISD.

In addition to the audit discussions, council members proposed future agenda items, including a review of emergency weather alerts on social media and a reevaluation of minimum height requirements for multifamily developments. The council is set to continue addressing these topics in upcoming meetings, ensuring that community needs and safety are prioritized.

The successful audit and proactive discussions signal a commitment to transparency and effective governance in Garland, setting a positive tone for future initiatives.