Treasurer Laurie discusses fraud prevention and digital record challenges in Butte-Silver Bow

In a recent meeting of the Government Study Commission for the City of Butte-Silver Bow, significant discussions centered around the operations and challenges faced by the Treasurer's office, particularly in relation to fraud prevention and the management of financial records for local school districts. The meeting, held on April 22, 2025, highlighted the critical role of the Treasurer's office in maintaining financial integrity and transparency within the community.

The Treasurer, Laurie, provided a detailed overview of her office's responsibilities, which include accounting and record-keeping for five school districts, managing payroll and vendor checks, and ensuring compliance with state and federal funding requirements. With the closure of Melrose School District, the office has adapted to reduced workloads while still focusing on essential functions like fraud prevention, which has become increasingly important due to rising incidents of check fraud and wire hacking.

A key point of discussion was the implementation of a new accounting program designed to enhance reporting and tracking for the school districts. This transition aims to streamline operations and improve efficiency, particularly in light of the challenges posed by outdated systems. Laurie emphasized the importance of maintaining robust fraud prevention measures, noting that the office has successfully recovered funds from previous fraud attempts, thanks to strong relationships with banking partners.

The conversation also touched on the need for improved public notification regarding tax bills and related laws, as many residents are not engaging with traditional media channels. Laurie suggested that enhancing community outreach through more active involvement from commissioners could help address this issue.

In response to questions about potential changes in governmental structure, Laurie firmly stated that the segregation of duties between the Treasurer's office and the Auditor's office is crucial for maintaining checks and balances. She expressed concerns about integrating these functions, which could compromise the integrity of financial operations.

Looking ahead, Laurie identified infrastructure and technological advancements as critical areas requiring attention and funding. She advocated for a comprehensive approach to address the evolving challenges of digital record-keeping and fraud prevention, emphasizing that the future demands a proactive stance on these issues.

The meeting underscored the importance of the Treasurer's office in Butte-Silver Bow's financial landscape and highlighted the ongoing need for strategic improvements to ensure effective governance and community trust. As the commission continues its work, the insights shared by Laurie will likely inform future decisions regarding the structure and operations of local government.