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State-created Office of Integrity and Compliance begins oversight role; Frank Turner named
Summary
PGCPS representatives told Greenbelt residents the state law creating an independent Office of Integrity and Compliance took effect June 1, 2024. Frank Turner was hired to lead the office, which can conduct audits, investigations and performance reviews independently of PGCPS.
Jonathan Briggs described the new Office of Integrity and Compliance established by the Maryland General Assembly in 2023 and effective June 1, 2024. He said the office is independent from PGCPS, is charged with investigating fraud, waste and abuse, and is authorized to conduct administrative investigations, budgetary analysis and performance audits.
"One of the things that I think really is important... is that they're tasked with coordinating with the school system and taking into consideration requests from specified members of the community," Briggs said. He confirmed Frank Turner has been hired as the office’s integrity and compliance officer and is working on a written work plan and priorities.
Briggs clarified the office’s relationship with PGCPS’s internal Office of Fraud, Waste and Abuse: both will continue to operate, but the independent officer will coordinate with the internal audit function and, under state law, has access to audit information. Residents asked whether the new office was redundant; Briggs said legislators aimed for independence and checks and balances but that the internal audit department will continue to submit reports and coordinate as required.
On a related personnel matter, Briggs said legal action against a former board member, Mr. Murray, was curtailed after his resignation and that the District 1 board seat will be filled through the November election; two primary winners are advancing to the general election.
Next steps: Briggs said the independent office will produce a work plan and periodic goals and that he and residents will await further public updates on those deliverables.
