FISCAL ACCOUNTABILITY
The Audits Tell the Story
Independent audits are one of the most important tools taxpayers have for evaluating the financial health and accountability of local government.
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Recent audit reports have identified recurring findings involving financial controls, reconciliations, and financial reporting processes. While county employees work hard every day to serve the public, repeated findings indicate areas where financial systems and procedures can be strengthened.
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Taxpayers deserve confidence that public funds are accurately accounted for, records are properly maintained, and financial information is reliable and transparent.
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As Treasurer, I will work to understand the root causes of recurring findings, develop practical solutions, and strengthen public confidence in the county’s financial operations.
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Accountability is not about assigning blame. It is about identifying problems, improving processes, and ensuring taxpayer trust is protected.
Repeated Audit Findings
Fiscal Year 2021: Reconciliation Gaps
The FY2021 audit identified significant delays in bank reconciliations, leading to inaccuracies in reporting and a lack of daily oversight.
Fiscal Year 2022: Control Weaknesses
Audit findings noted a lack of segregation of duties, allowing critical financial transactions to occur without a required secondary review.
Fiscal Year 2023: Oversight Failure
The most recent findings highlight continued lack of oversight in fund transfers and reconciliation, threatening the county's financial integrity.
Dawn’s Solutions for Lincoln County
Daily Reconciliation Protocols
Experience managing family business finances means Dawn understands that trust is earned through daily discipline. By implementing rigorous daily reconciliations, Dawn will ensure Lincoln County’s books match every single day, addressing the core issues identified in past audits and providing the accountability taxpayers deserve.
Strengthened Internal Controls
Dawn will modernize the office’s internal oversight by establishing clear roles and a two-person review system for all fund transfers. This proactive approach eliminates the risks of financial complexity and restores public trust through visible, consistent fiscal stewardship.