Policy, Finance & HR Committee – September 10, 2024

Policy, Finance & HR Committee Meeting Recap – September 10, 2024

The Policy, Finance & HR Committee convened virtually on September 10, 2024, to discuss key financial and operational matters impacting the city. The meeting was open to the public via phone and the city’s virtual engagement hub, ensuring transparency and accessibility for residents. This recap summarizes the key discussions, decisions, and next steps from this important meeting.

A primary focus of the meeting was finalizing the Committee’s Work Plan, aligning it with the city's broader Vision 2036 framework. This plan outlines the committee’s priorities for the coming year, including updates to financial reporting policies, review of human resources practices, and monitoring relevant state and federal legislative issues with an eye toward securing funding opportunities. Committee members agreed upon the finalized work plan, recognizing its dynamic nature and potential for adjustments as circumstances evolve. City Manager Deborah Campbell committed to sharing this plan with advisory boards, ensuring wider awareness of the committee's focus.

The Committee also received updates on several ongoing initiatives crucial to the city’s financial health and accountability. Lauren Broom, Internal Audit Program Manager, provided an overview of the internal audit program, noting that it is fully staffed and currently focusing on audits of the Harris Cherokee Center and Fleet Operations. A newly approved internal audit policy is in place, alongside efforts to promote the city’s employee ethics and compliance hotline internally. Tony McDowell and Becky Ogles briefed the committee on the year-end audit, conducted by Cherry Beckert, expected to be completed by October 31, 2024. The results of this audit will be submitted to the Local Government Commission and are vital for maintaining the city’s financial credibility. Finally, Jamie Matthews shared progress on educating the public about the upcoming November 2024 General Obligation (GO) bond vote, which will fund various city projects. The public outreach includes a dedicated website, project maps, flyers, and an informative video designed to keep residents informed.

The meeting concluded with a discussion regarding the city’s debt program and upcoming bond issuances, including converting short-term bank loans to long-term bonds for previously funded projects. Council Member Ullman requested a future presentation with detailed financial information and projections related to the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), highlighting the importance of providing comprehensive data for informed decision-making. While there were no public comments during this meeting, Mayor Manheimer emphasized the importance of transparency and accessibility for residents throughout these processes.

Looking ahead, several key action items were identified. Deborah Campbell and her staff will continue communicating the Committee Work Plan to advisory boards. Lauren Broom will present audit reports for Harris Cherokee Center and Fleet Operations at the October committee meeting. The Finance Department is responsible for completing the year-end audit and submitting it by October 31, 2024. Jamie Matthews will continue public outreach efforts concerning the GO bond vote. These steps demonstrate a commitment to proactive planning, robust accountability measures, and open communication with the community as the city navigates upcoming financial decisions and project implementations.