Adams County Fire District 5 receives clean audit
STAFF REPORT | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 1 year, 10 months AGO
OLYMPIA — The Office of the Washington State Auditor has released its audit findings for the Adams County Fire Protection District No. 5, covering the period from Jan. 1, 2021, to Dec. 31, 2023.
The audit concluded that the district operated in compliance with applicable state laws, regulations, and its own policies, effectively safeguarding public resources from fraud, loss, and abuse.
Key areas examined included the accuracy of annual report filings, general disbursements, payroll processes, compliance with open public meeting laws, and the overall financial condition of the district.
The audit did not find any significant deficiencies, the audit report said, affirming the district’s commitment to sound fiscal management and transparency.
The district operated on annual budgets of approximately $948,560 in 2021, $980,209 in 2022 and $1,132,136 in 2023.
Management is accountable for maintaining adequate internal controls and ensuring adherence to regulations. The district, established in 1948 and governed by a three-member Board of Commissioners, serves residents of Adams County and the City of Othello.
ARTICLES BY STAFF REPORT
Connell woman killed in Booker Road crash
CONNELL — Charges are pending against a Kennewick man following a collision about 12 miles south of Othello that killed a Connell woman and injured three other people Tuesday evening. A Washington State Patrol press memo said intoxicating substances were a factor. Jessica Zarate, 37, Connell, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash near the intersection of SR 17 and South Booker Road, the WSP memo said. She was driving south on Booker Road approaching the intersection when her car was hit by a pickup driven by John Reiss, 62, Kennewick. Edgar Garcia Quirino, 28, Othello, was driving north on SR 17 and ran into Zarate's car, the WSP memo said. The crash occurred at about 6:40 p.m.
Wheeler Road closed because of traffic collision
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Doors opening: The Currents will provide homeownership for more local workers
About 104 homes are planned at the former Atlas sawmill site
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