City auditors issue clean opinion on Leavenworths 2024 financial statements

Leavenworth City commissioners heard a presentation from Hood & Associates on the audit of the citys financial statements for the year ended Dec. 31, 2024. Michael Keenan, CPA, the lead auditor, told the commission the firm issued an unmodified opinion on the citys financial statements.

Keenan said the audit included the annual comprehensive financial report and a single-audit review of federal awards. He told the commission the audit did not identify any illegal acts or material weaknesses in internal control and that the city complied, in all material respects, with finance-related laws and regulations. "We have issued what's called an unmodified opinion," Keenan said.

The auditors identified the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) as the citys single major federal program and said some ARPA funds remain to be spent. Keenan characterized the remaining ARPA balance as roughly in the single-digit millions (described in the presentation as approximately $8 million) and said the remaining funds must be spent within the programs scheduling requirements.

Keenan also reviewed the management letter and recommended that city management continue cross-training key employees to reduce dependence on long-tenured staff and maintain ongoing cybersecurity vigilance. He noted the city had received the Government Finance Officers Association certificate of achievement for excellence in financial reporting for 30 consecutive years and staff had submitted the 2024 report for the anticipated 31st consecutive year.

City Manager Scott Peterson and Finance staff were acknowledged for cooperation during the audit. Keenan closed by offering to answer follow-up questions and to provide contact information for later queries.

Commissioners did not take formal action on the audit presentation; the item was presented for review and acceptance on the record.