State details Hartford compilation report; forensic audit to probe FY24–26 spending; Bridgeport oversight updates

The department briefed the board on two district finance items on June 3.

Hartford: the agency contracted LarsonAllen LLP (CLA) to compile forecasted statements and follow with a forensic audit. CLA’s compilation found Hartford’s deficit was approximately $29.5 million as of April — larger than the district’s earlier $22 million estimate — citing three primary drivers: (1) vacancy and salary assumptions (the actual vacancy rate was closer to 3% versus a projected 6%, and salaries refilled at higher-than-budgeted rates); (2) underbudgeted benefits and uncounted part‑time personnel costs; and (3) missed revenue (about $3 million from a sheriff‑services agreement) and special‑education outplacement costs. The board was told a phase‑two forensic audit of FY24–26 expenditures would begin June 5 and run through August 2026 to examine anomalies and spending decisions.

Bridgeport: staff reported ongoing governance and oversight work, including updated bylaws and administrative policies and engagement to support a permanent superintendent search; the state indicated it will assist with search-related costs. Department teams also reviewed special‑education capacity work, competitive grants and technical assistance for districts.

Board members asked about the drivers of the Hartford gap, the cadence for ongoing monitoring, and next steps for mitigation. Department staff said the forensic audit and regular reporting would inform accountability discussions and that enhanced monitoring and technical support were already in place.