Ephrata School District receives two clean audit reports
NANCE BESTON | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 1 year, 5 months AGO
Seal of the Washington State Auditor's Office.
EPHRATA — The Washington State Auditor’s Office recently completed two audits of the Ephrata School District, both resulted in no significant deficiencies. The audits included an accountability audit and a financial statement and federal grant compliance audit, covering September 2020 to August 2023 and September 2022 to August 2023, respectively.
“We are extremely pleased with the results of this audit. This clean report is a testament to the hard work, dedication and financial stewardship of our school board and leadership. Fiscal responsibility is one of our core focus areas and we will continue to do what is necessary to make sure we meet this objective,” Ephrata School District Superintendent Ken Murray said.
The audits found district operations complied with state laws, regulations and internal policies, with adequate controls in place to safeguard public resources. The examinations focused on areas with the highest risk of fraud, loss, abuse or noncompliance, such as the use of restricted funds, compliance with supplemental contracts for enrichment activities, open public meetings and the district's financial condition.
The cost of the audit process was estimated to be around $41,000 for the school district. However, due to the lack of significant issues, timely responses from district staff and overall efficiency, the district was able to save nearly $10,000 in audit costs according to Ephrata School District website.
Murray said he was satisfied with the results.
The next audit for the Ephrata School District is scheduled for early 2025, focusing on financial statements and Federal grant compliance for the 2023-24 school year.
ARTICLES BY NANCE BESTON
Mathis sworn into Ephrata council seat
EPHRATA — On Monday night, the Ephrata City Council and Mayor-Elect Steve Oliver attended a workshop to discuss roles and swear in Oliver and the council’s newest member.
Ephrata’s 2025: A year of infrastructure, parks and branding
EPHRATA — As 2025 draws to a close, the city of Ephrata reflects on a year marked by investments and improvements in its water infrastructure, park facilities, buying a new facility and branding initiatives. The city added a new water tower, upgraded its water reclamation facility, installed new park bathrooms, began replacing the playground equipment at Lions Park and formed its first brand.
Port of Ephrata reports 2025 successes
Port administration plans for infrastructure growth in 2026
EPHRATA — The Port of Ephrata has marked a successful year of growth and innovation, according to Executive Director David Lanman. The Port's accomplishments include infrastructure upgrades, new services like Jet A fuel and Hertz rental cars, as well as collaborations with area partners to create opportunities.