Augusta leaders look to check every corner with Parks and Rec audit

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Augusta commissioners took another step toward auditing the Parks and Recreation Department, following the departure of former director Maurice McDowell.

On Tuesday, a committee approved the audit. Now, it’s up to the full commission to decide next week.

They’re trying to clean the slate, following a controversial departure.

“What we want to make sure we’re doing is adding in processes that will make our city more transparent,” said Commissioner Jordan Johnson.

Right now, they’ve narrowed the field down to 16 candidates to fill the Parks and Rec head position. While they look to the future of that position, they’re also looking to make sure there are no lingering issues from the past.

Some areas they are interested in exploring in the audit include Riverwalk expenditures, park expenditures, hotel stays with locations by employees, an IT search if any documents were deleted, community center dollars and more.

The auditing firm they selected, UHY, would charge a little more than $70,000 to explore this and more, within 90 days of commissioners’ approval.

Commissioners also tossed around the idea of tacking on audits for other issues they came across, like a new furniture request for a little more than $150,000 for the new Henry Brigham Center.

Commissioner Catherine Smith-McKnight said: “Ya’ll ain’t gonna wanna hear this, but it is beginning to smell fishier than a fish market.”

Commissioner Brandon Garrett responded: “I’m not even sure where to pick up on this one. Well, you know, apparently they stink.”

In every instance, commissioners brought up the need for more audits and oversight.

But a $300,000 to $400,000 full government operational audit failed to pass months ago.

“Again, more accountability has got to be put in place in this government that is just not there currently,” said Commissioner Sean Frantom.

Also at Commission…

• SPLOST 9 work session scheduled is scheduled for June 20. Infrastructure and Facilities Work and FY25 Budget Retreat is scheduled for June 26.
• Three Flock Cameras will be placed at the three entrances to Goshen Plantation for one year, with a total cost of $10,500.
• Commissioners approved 17 Dodge police chargers and a Dodge Durango for the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office for $840,749.26.

Copyright 2024 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.