Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Municipal Finance topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
MLCT review finds Lewistown reconciliations balanced as city seeks release of withheld state funds
Summary
A Montana League of Cities and Towns review found no unknown variances in Lewistown’s reconciliations and no signs of fraud, and the city will work with the Department of Administration to seek release of withheld funds, commissioners were told Sept. 15.
Darla Erickson of the Montana League of Cities and Towns told the Lewistown City Commission that her on‑site review of the city’s tax and cash reconciliations “balanced to the penny” and that she found no unknown variances.
“City Clerk Brummond had everything reconciled,” Erickson said, adding that she was “not worried about fraud, waste, or abuse.” Erickson explained that differences flagged by the Department of Administration (DOA) were resolved and that the DOA’s communications arrived later than the city’s submittals. She recommended sending requested documentation on time and working with the DOA to restore trust so withheld funds can be released.
Commissioners asked how the city should respond to the DOA’s withholding; Erickson said Montana League director Kelly Lynch may submit a letter asking DOA to reconsider now that the city is in compliance. Commissioner Hrubes characterized the DOA’s approach as premature; Erickson agreed the DOA staff turnover may have contributed to the misunderstanding.
City Clerk Nikki Brummond and City Manager Holly Phelps said the city will provide monthly submittals and more frequent check‑ins with the League to avoid future issues. The discussion concluded with public questions about MLCT fees and suggestions for procedural safeguards; Erickson recommended timely reconciliations and ongoing review.
