Auditors give Indian Wells Groundwater Authority a clean opinion on 2024 financials

The Indian Wells Groundwater Authority received an unmodified audit opinion for its 2024 financial statements, auditors told the board during the meeting.

Jared Solomons, the audit partner presenting for the auditors, said the firm issued an unmodified opinion after performing standard audit test work and reviewing management estimates. "In our opinion, the annual financial statements are fairly presented in all material respects," Solomons said.

The auditors and staff gave a brief overview of key financials: cash increased from 5.7 to 6.5 (units as reported in the audit presentation), grants receivable include Department of Water Resources (DWR) amounts expected to be received, accounts payable decreased and the net position decreased slightly but remained healthy. An auditor noted that no material internal‑control issues were reported to management.

Public commenters asked for clarity about amounts the authority owed to the City of Ridgecrest and complained about receiving the audit package the morning of the meeting. Staff said some 2024 payments were catching up for quarterly or backlog billings, and that the authority is current on ongoing monthly obligations; the City balance includes amounts for room rental, IT and general counsel services and a backlog that has since been addressed.

One resident, Judy Decker, said it was unacceptable to receive the audit the morning of the meeting. A director also expressed concern that board packets arrive late, limiting members' ability to review complex materials in advance.

The board took the item as "receive and file" with no further action required at the meeting.