The Summit County Council meeting on August 23, 2023, featured a detailed presentation from independent auditor Matt Geddes of Squire and Company, who provided an overview of the county's financial audit for the year ending December 31, 2022. This marks the third year of collaboration between the county and the auditing firm.

Geddes explained that the audit process adheres to generally accepted auditing standards and government auditing standards. He emphasized the importance of the audit in ensuring that the county's financial statements are reliable and accurately reflect its financial position. The audit also included compliance checks related to federal funding, particularly focusing on pandemic-related financial assistance, such as the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Program.

The auditor reported that the county complied with all material requirements for the use of federal funds, reassuring council members that there were no significant compliance issues that would warrant concern. However, he noted some minor instances of non-compliance related to budgetary matters, which were categorized as "other matters" rather than significant deficiencies. These included a few departments exceeding their budgets and a missed submission of a fraud risk assessment due to internal transitions.

Geddes highlighted the county's improvements in financial reporting, noting that this year's audit was finalized earlier than in previous years, reflecting better accounting practices. He concluded by affirming that no significant deficiencies or material weaknesses were identified in the county's internal controls over financial reporting.

The meeting underscored the county's commitment to transparency and accountability in its financial operations, with the council members expressing appreciation for the auditor's thorough report and the progress made in financial management.