Cache County accepts annual external audit; auditors report material‑weakness linked to turnover

The Cache County Council voted to accept the county’s annual external audit after a presentation from Jones Simpkins that included a clean auditor’s opinion on the financial statements and findings on internal controls.

Jason Slate, an audit partner with Jones Simpkins, told the council the audit opinion states the financial statements are presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The firm also issued reports on internal control and federal compliance, and performed the single audit required when federal expenditures exceed $750,000. Slate said the county and its component units spent about $14.5 million in federal awards during the audit period and auditors tested approximately $8.8 million, concentrated on larger grants including ARPA funds.

Slate said the auditors identified a material weakness and a significant deficiency in internal control, primarily tied to staffing turnover in the finance department and the departure last year of a staff member who handled many reconciliations. Slate said the county’s auditor, Funk, provided a corrective action plan, and some improvements in reconciliations and journal‑entry reviews were already underway.

Council members asked whether the audit findings affect the county’s bond rating. Slate said the financial statements are in good position and he was not aware of anything that would lower the county’s rating; Zions Bank finalized required bond disclosures the same day. The council moved, seconded and voted to accept the annual external audit as presented; the motion passed on a voice vote.