In a recent Finance Committee meeting held in Santa Fe, New Mexico, city officials gathered to discuss significant updates to the internal audit plan for fiscal year 2026. The meeting, marked by a collaborative spirit, featured Deputy City Manager Andrea Phillips and Haley Garcia from Baker Tilly, who provided insights into the evolving audit landscape.

The internal audit plan, a crucial framework for ensuring transparency and accountability within city operations, underwent revisions to adapt to changing priorities and budget constraints. The original plan, approved a year and a half ago, included various projects aimed at enhancing city governance. However, due to a reduction in the budget for internal audits—from $190,000 to $150,000—certain projects, such as grants management and cash balances, were postponed to allow for a more focused approach on pressing issues.

Garcia emphasized the importance of the internal audit function, which serves as an independent arm of the city, tasked with evaluating both financial and operational aspects of city management. The revised plan now includes a procurement process review, aimed at assessing the efficiency of the city’s procurement practices and ensuring compliance with state regulations. This addition reflects ongoing concerns about the procurement process, which has been identified as a challenge for the city.

The committee members expressed their support for the changes, recognizing the need for a thorough examination of the procurement process and the importance of addressing high-risk areas identified in previous audits. Councilor Cassett highlighted the significance of allowing time for improvements in grants management before conducting an audit, ensuring that the city is better prepared for such evaluations.

In addition to the audit discussions, the committee also considered a resolution aimed at improving the budget process for the upcoming fiscal years. The proposed changes include establishing clearer guidelines for community engagement during budget discussions, with an emphasis on creating interactive sessions that encourage public participation. Councilor Cassett raised concerns about ensuring that community feedback is representative and meaningful, suggesting that the council should balance public input with their own insights gathered from constituents.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members unanimously approved the revised internal audit plan and the resolution for budget process improvements, signaling a commitment to enhancing the city’s governance and operational efficiency. The discussions underscored the importance of adaptability in city management, as officials navigate the complexities of budget constraints and community needs. With these revisions, Santa Fe aims to foster a more transparent and effective local government, ultimately benefiting its residents.