Tulsa City Auditor outlines new performance audit strategies for improved city efficiency

The Tulsa Human Rights Commission convened on March 17, 2025, to discuss various initiatives aimed at enhancing city governance and community engagement. The meeting focused on the role of the city auditor's office, which is expanding its responsibilities to include performance audits beyond financial assessments.

The city auditor highlighted the importance of reviewing departmental processes to improve efficiency and effectiveness. An annual report will be generated to track the implementation of recommendations made to various departments. A new website is in development to provide real-time updates on these audits, fostering transparency and community involvement.

A significant point of discussion was the auditor's expanded mandate to evaluate the overall performance of the city of Tulsa, not just its financial operations. This broader scope allows for a more comprehensive assessment of how well the city meets its objectives and serves its residents. The auditor emphasized the importance of using established standards and best practices to guide performance audits, including areas such as emergency response times.

The commission also discussed the process for residents to engage with the auditor's office. An annual risk assessment will be conducted, incorporating feedback from department heads, city employees, and the public. A new form will be available on the auditor's website, allowing residents to submit audit requests directly.

Additionally, the commission addressed the Human Rights Commission's focus on equity indicators, specifically those related to representation on city boards and commissions. The auditor expressed interest in collaborating with the Human Rights Commission to ensure that these indicators are effectively evaluated and addressed.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to maintain open lines of communication between the auditor's office and the community, ensuring that residents have access to information and can voice their concerns regarding city governance. The auditor's office plans to implement its new audit plan starting in July, with a focus on addressing the needs and risks identified by the community.