Ephrata School District receives two clean audit reports
NANCE BESTON | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 1 year, 9 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
‘Show up’
Local leaders say community voices shape schools, cities and trust
WARDEN — When Warden Mayor Rosaelia Martinez looked out over the audience at the April 28 Warden City Council meeting, she didn’t see empty seats. She saw neighbors. “First of all, before we start, I want to say thank you to all those that came to the meeting tonight,” Martinez said. “I know we are all busy people, and I really appreciate your input. Your time is valuable and we appreciate you being here.” That message – that showing up matters – was echoed by city and school leaders across the Columbia Basin, many of whom say public participation directly shapes decision-making, transparency and long‑term planning.
Warden council bans kratom, considers parking regulations
WARDEN — Warden City Council passed a kratom ban and special event permit Tuesday night. It also discussed its comprehensive plan update and an ordinance for parking regulations. Around 17 residents were in attendance, a fairly large showing for a Warden council meeting. “First of all, before we start, I want to say thank you to all those that came to the meeting tonight,” Mayor Rosaelia Martinez said. “I know we are all busy people, and I really appreciate your input because it really validates what a lot of people are hoping to achieve in the city. Thank you. Your time is valuable and we appreciate you being here.”
Columbia Basin Hospital nominates Allred for board
EPHRATA — The Columbia Basin Hospital received one application for a vacant seat on the Board of Commissioners for Public Hospital District No. 3. Dr. Lowell Allred has applied for the role. He was officially nominated for the role at the April 28 board of commissioners meeting. “Public notice of this nomination shall occur between April 29 and May 14, to allow time for registered voters residing in the hospital district to also submit nominees for the vacant position,” said Chief Executive Officer Rosalinda Kibby.