The city's finance director told the council the city received a draft management letter from auditors and intends to address the findings with a combination of staff process changes and outside assistance. The director said some issues flagged by the auditors have already been fixed and that the city will take a corrective action plan approach to improve fiscal procedures.

"Once we get, look through this audit, our team's gonna get together, and our goal is to implement and change and do whatever we can to, make FY '25 that much better," the finance director said. The director also noted the department is working to display grant activity more clearly in city systems and acknowledged turnover in finance staff during the fiscal year under audit.

Separately, staff said a bond application for a van originally approved in December (for roads and Surrey Road work) was submitted to the Maine Municipal Bond Bank ahead of the Aug. 1 deadline so the purchase can transition to a bond rather than pay-as-you-go. Council discussion included a request for a presentation by the auditors at the finance committee or a workshop so the council can review findings and next steps.

The finance director said the city engaged Sue Lessard, identified as a former Bucksport town manager, to assist with current financial procedures and help the city reach "best-in-class" systems; staff said periodic touchpoints with the council are planned to review progress. Council members emphasized that audit findings are an opportunity to improve and asked for transparent reporting on corrective actions. No formal votes were taken during the discussion.