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Kent County auditor issues clean opinion; general fund rises $5.54 million
Summary
Independent auditors told the Kent County Board of Commissioners on April 24 that the county received an unmodified "clean" opinion for fiscal year ended Sept. 30, 2024, and the general fund balance increased by $5,538,099 to $113,805,072.
Kent County received an unmodified (clean) audit opinion for the fiscal year ended Sept. 30, 2024, the county's independent auditor said at the Board of Commissioners meeting on April 24.
Paul Matz of Raymond, the county's auditing firm, told commissioners the auditors found no material compliance issues or material findings. He said the financial statements are "accurately stated in all material respects," the highest opinion an auditor can give.
The report highlights included an increase in the general fund balance of $5,538,099 for the year, bringing the fund balance to $113,805,072, Matz said. He pointed commissioners to the management's discussion and analysis and the transmittal letter in the report for narrative context and charts showing operating results.
Commissioners were also told the county continues to receive the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting, a recognition noted in the audit package. The fiscal report runs to several hundred pages; Matz suggested commissioners review the transmittal letter (starting on page 9) and the management discussion and analysis (starting around page 26) for condensed summaries.
Commissioner Bujak thanked the auditors and county staff and asked directly whether auditors had found fraud or abuse. Matz replied there were none identified in the audit. Bujak said the result should reassure county residents about fiscal stewardship.
Jeff Doad and Steven Stratton, members of the county finance team identified during the presentation, were acknowledged for their roles supporting the audit. Stratton was introduced as the accounting manager who led the audit work internally.
County Administrator Al (surname not specified in the meeting transcript) and other commissioners also praised the finance team. The administrator noted the county's sustained financial performance and credit ratings as outcomes of long-term governance and management.
The audit presentation did not include a formal vote; it was presented as an informational item and commissioners had opportunity to ask questions following the remarks.
