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TCEQ approves Chief Auditor's fiscal 2026 audit plan; commission honors outgoing chief auditor
Summary
The commission approved the TCEQ Chief Auditor's FY2026 risk‑based audit plan and recognized Chief Auditor Mike Hartison, who is retiring after leading the office through 100+ audits and the COVID period.
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality voted Aug. 20 to approve the Chief Auditor's Office fiscal year 2026 risk‑based audit plan, as required by Texas Government Code §2102.
Chief Auditor Mike Hartison presented the plan, saying the office conducted interviews with governance and management, reviewed prior audits and financial data, and used those inputs to prioritize audits to address the agency's highest risks. Hartison and Deputy Chief Auditor Gail Zambe asked the commission to approve the plan; the commission did so by motion.
Public Interest Counsel Garrett Arthur told the commission OPIC supported approval of the plan. Commissioners thanked Hartison for 17 years of state service — 15 at TCEQ and seven as chief auditor — and for leading the office through the COVID transition and more than 100 audits and reports. Commissioners presented Hartison a flag flown over the Texas Capitol and offered public remarks of appreciation.
The commission's approval authorizes the Chief Auditor's Office to proceed with the FY2026 audit engagements described in the plan and to allocate audit resources consistent with the risk assessment that underpins the plan.
No substantive amendments to the plan were proposed at the meeting; staff committed to continue coordination with agency leadership on implementation and follow‑up.
