Auditors give Dawsonville a clean opinion; council approves housekeeping budget amendments

Auditors from Alexander, Allman & Baines presented the city’s draft financial audit for the year ended June 30, 2024, and issued an unmodified opinion on the financial statements.

Rachel Miller, the auditor, highlighted financial changes: current assets rose about 29%, driven by cash and accounts receivable; unrestricted net position was noted at about $10.6 million (roughly 30% of net position) and restricted capital-project funds around $4 million (12%). Total revenues rose from approximately $8.4 million in the prior fiscal year to about $10.3 million in the audited year, producing a government-wide increase in net position of nearly $4 million.

Miller noted that charges for services, additional grants and capital contributions, and general tax increases contributed to the revenue growth. Business-type revenues were described as approximately 39% from water charges and 36% from sewer charges. The auditors disclosed potential future impacts from GIFA loans and TSPLOST projects that could affect finances after the audit date.

Following the audit presentation, Finance Director Robin Gazzaway requested approval of a package of housekeeping budget amendments for FY2024–25 to consolidate adjustments, including a previously omitted account the director distributed to council. The council moved, seconded and approved those amendments as presented.

What’s next: Council members were encouraged to review the full audit packet (about 70 pages of detail and schedules) and contact auditors or staff with questions; staff will finalize the audit and pursue any next steps related to the city’s certificate of achievement for financial reporting if applicable.