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Audit finds widespread p-card and travel-policy noncompliance; staff to update policies and training
Summary
An internal audit presented Jan. 5 found six findings and 48 recommendations across Weber County departments, citing vague policy language and frequent coding errors rather than evidence of fraud; staff proposed policy revisions and targeted training, while county leaders debated whether to add a two-step approval requirement.
Kaylee Rhodes presented the county—ard and travel audit to the Weber County Commission on Jan. 5, saying the review—largely completed by predecessor Kimberly Beck—found six formal findings and 48 recommendations across departments.
"There were 6 findings, and a total of 48 recommendations," Rhodes told commissioners, adding that many problems stem from unclear policy language and inconsistent coding of transactions. She said one test showed roughly 95% noncompliance with the written policy in a sampled procedure.
The audit recommends updating travel and p-card forms, tightening policy language and running additional staff training. Rhodes said the changes are primarily the responsibility of the clerk/auditor's office and that the county will follow up in April.
Commissioners asked whether any of the irregularities suggested fraud; Rhodes and other staff repeatedly said the issues appeared to be "a coding issue" or training-related rather than criminal. "I don't think there was any indication that there was fraud," Rhodes said.
The audit also recommended consideration of a two-level approval process for card transactions. Finance staff (identified in the presentation as Ricky and Jason) expressed reluctance, saying a clearer policy and more education for department heads could be a less burdensome alternative. Rhodes said she would monitor implementation and provide follow-up recommendations to the audit committee.
Next steps: staff will share detailed recommendations with commissioners and return with follow-up results in April, per Rhodes' timeline.
