Audit reveals procurement policy violations and financial challenges in CCPS food service programs

In a recent meeting of the Calvert County Board of County Commissioners, the focus was on the findings from the latest audit of the Calvert County Public Schools (CCPS), revealing significant procurement issues and financial challenges within the Child Nutrition Program.

The audit, which examined the fiscal years 2022 and 2023, highlighted nine findings, two of which were repeat issues from the previous year. Notably, CCPS failed to consistently obtain board approval for purchases exceeding $25,000, a breach of its own procurement policy. This oversight raises concerns about compliance and governance, prompting recommendations for improved internal audits to prevent future lapses.

Additionally, the audit pointed out that the Child Nutrition Program is struggling financially, primarily due to inadequate pricing strategies and high banking fees. The program's financial outcomes could be enhanced by adjusting meal prices and exploring more cost-effective banking solutions. The auditors emphasized the importance of ensuring that the program remains accessible, especially for students relying on school meals as a primary food source.

Commissioners engaged in a robust discussion about these findings, questioning the implications of the procurement policies and the necessity of adhering to industry standards. The auditors reiterated that maintaining the current threshold for competitive bidding is crucial to avoid potential conflicts of interest and inefficiencies.

As the meeting concluded, the board acknowledged the need for ongoing evaluations and improvements to ensure that CCPS operates effectively and efficiently, particularly in its procurement processes and financial management. The anticipated follow-up will provide further clarity on the specific number of vendors involved in high-value contracts and additional recommendations for enhancing the Child Nutrition Program's financial health.