County Finance Director highlights concerns over treasurer's reporting and budget management

The Atchison County Commission meeting held on July 8, 2025, focused on financial management and budget oversight, with significant discussions surrounding the county's general fund and the performance of various departments.

The meeting began with a review of the county's financial tools, specifically the CAMIP, which allows for daily withdrawals and aims to secure better interest rates from local banks. The importance of keeping funds local was emphasized, as it benefits the community.

The discussion then shifted to the general fund's expenses. It was noted that the commissioners were under budget, with expenses totaling $85,053 against a budget of $90,002. However, the new county clerk was highlighted for being over budget, although this was not deemed a violation. The overall general fund was reported to be under budget by approximately $3,198, indicating effective financial management despite some departmental overspending.

The meeting also addressed concerns regarding the timely submission of daily financial statements. It was reported that the treasurer's office had not been submitting these statements regularly, which has led to difficulties in tracking budget statuses for department heads. The auditor expressed concern that delays in these reports could lead to errors and mismanagement of funds. The need for timely accounting practices was stressed, as it is crucial for accurate financial oversight.

Additionally, issues with bank reconciliations were discussed. The auditor noted discrepancies in cash balances due to uncleared items and emphasized the importance of maintaining accurate records. The treasurer's failure to publish quarterly reports, as required by statute, was also highlighted, with potential fines for non-compliance.

The auditor raised concerns about the treasurer's understanding of daily statements and the management of county funds, suggesting that a lack of oversight could lead to significant risks. The need for improved communication and cooperation between the treasurer's office and the auditing team was underscored.

In conclusion, the meeting revealed both strengths and weaknesses in Atchison County's financial management. While the overall budget performance was positive, the issues surrounding timely reporting and accurate record-keeping require immediate attention to ensure the county's financial integrity and accountability. The commission plans to address these concerns in future meetings, emphasizing the importance of regular updates and oversight to protect public funds.