Purcell given ‘poor’ rating by state auditor

The city of Purcell, Missouri, has been given a ‘poor’ rating by Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway.

A 43-page audit report says From February 1, 2021, to April 12, 2021, at least $3,233 was misappropriated or is missing from the city. During this period, the former Mayor Pro Tem improperly issued herself 4 checks totaling $1,988, made a $400 cash withdrawal from the city bank account, issued a $200 check to a routine city vendor that she endorsed and deposited into her personal bank account, and issued a $500 check to an individual that was cashed and the proceeds were divided between the individual ($250) and the Mayor Pro Tem
($250).

In addition, she improperly recorded $160 in adjustments to her utility account, and did not bill herself for an estimated $70 of utility and trash services. The former Mayor Pro Tem also did not deposit at least $165 in city cash receipts collected during this timeframe.

The audit also says the former Board did not always adequately monitor the city’s financial activity; review or compare checks written to supporting documents, such as invoices or bank statements; or require dual signatures on city checks.

The city also did not obtain an annual audit of its sewer system for the year ended December 31, 2020, as required by state law. The Mayor and board members who sign checks and have access to money held in bank accounts are not covered by a bond.

The audit results indicate this entity needs to significantly improve operations. The report contains numerous findings that require management’s immediate attention, and/or the entity has indicated most recommendations will not be implemented. In addition, if applicable, most prior recommendations have not been implemented.

Click here to see the entire report