Commissioner vows to restore trust after payroll errors

In a recent government meeting, officials addressed significant payroll discrepancies that have raised concerns about oversight and internal controls within the agency. The discussions were prompted by an internal review and audit initiated after the Office of Legislative Auditor (OLA) highlighted issues with retroactive payments dating back to 2019.

Commissioner Jacobson acknowledged the inadequacies of the current payroll structure, particularly the risks associated with decentralized payroll functions. In response, the agency plans to implement a comprehensive audit by an external entity to ensure the accuracy of past payments and to enhance oversight moving forward. This includes adding staff and improving coordination between the Human Resources and payroll departments to prevent similar issues in the future.

Senator Cran expressed skepticism regarding the agency's ability to manage payroll effectively, citing a lack of oversight that allowed a single employee to make unilateral decisions without proper supervision. He emphasized the need for accountability and questioned whether corrective actions would be taken against individuals responsible for the errors.

In response to concerns about the competence of existing staff, Commissioner Jacobson stated that while new hires may be necessary, the focus should also be on ensuring that current employees are adequately trained and supervised. He reiterated the commitment to improving internal controls and acknowledged the need for better communication with the Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) to streamline processes.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of restoring trust among taxpayers and employees alike, with officials vowing to take the necessary steps to rectify past mistakes and enhance the overall efficiency of government operations.