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Belmar council says auditor sees no initial evidence of missing funds; some tax-collector checks remain under review
Summary
Council reported an auditor review of apparent discrepancies in tax-collector checks. The mayor and council said checks associated with the matter totaled about $30,944.71 across eight checks; four were resolved and four remain under investigation while staff attempt to contact payees.
Council members reported that the borough auditor is reviewing discrepancies raised in the tax collector’s office and that, so far, the review has not turned up evidence of missing money.
At the meeting a council member summarized the situation: the disputed items involved eight checks totaling about $30,944.71; four of those checks have been resolved (replaced or otherwise addressed) and four remain under review while staff try to contact payees who are difficult to reach. The speaker said staff would continue outreach and report updates to the public when available.
Nut graf: Officials urged calm and patience, saying collection rates remain consistent and there is no current evidence of fiscal impropriety; staff and the auditor are continuing the review.
Officials described difficulties contacting some payees and emphasized the importance of letting the auditor complete its review before drawing conclusions. The mayor and council also cautioned residents about social-media claims and stressed that municipal staffing and operations remain functional.
Ending: The council did not take formal action at the meeting beyond directing staff to continue the audit and outreach; no theft or embezzlement allegation was substantiated during the public session.
