Commissioners direct staff to reconcile Adams Bank card charges after months-long dispute

Keith County officials told the board they are working to reconcile months of disputed charges on a county debit/credit card issued by Adams Bank. County staff and a bank representative reported the company handling the merchant account had traced the balance down to unpaid invoice principals and some late fees; the bank representative said fees could be waived but the county needs to identify underlying invoices.

Commissioners and staff asked county attorney Rory (surname not provided), Finance staff (Carrie Reimers and Carrie Anderson were mentioned) and the bank to meet together with the card vendor to review detailed invoices and supporting documents. County officials said earlier efforts had reduced some amounts to $36 in one backward account, but the bank's review flagged approximately $1,000 in unpaid merchandise principal and additional interest/late fees of roughly $39.66 and $59.40 on two accounts. Staff said they may need documents still held by a former employee (Randy) and that a joint meeting with the bank and vendor is the recommended path to resolution.

Commissioners asked staff to schedule a meeting soon because late fees and collection activity continue to add charges. County officials asked the board to authorize an audit of supporting invoices and to request that the bank and vendor waive fees if the invoices are validated as previously paid or misapplied. County staff said they will reconvene with the bank and involved county employees (including Carrie and Randy) to assemble the records and finish the reconciliation.