A recent review from an independent agency shows the City of Jackson is using its taxpayer and federal funds appropriately. Accounting firm Rehmann Robson conducted the City’s annual audit of the previous fiscal year. After the review was complete, auditors gave the City of Jackson an “unmodified opinion”. This finding concludes that the City of Jackson presented its financial reporting accurately and no issues were found.
City of Jackson Finance Director Heather Ehnis says the unmodified opinion reflects City staff’s dedication to being good stewards of Jackson’s tax dollars. “This finding shows a clean bill of health for the City’s finances. An unmodified opinion is the best outcome a governmental entity can get from an audit. While this is something that happens annually, it’s important for residents to know about the audit to build community trust,” Ehnis said.
Local governmental units are required to complete an annual financial audit with the assistance of an independent agency. Auditors look for signs of fraud, waste, and abuse, helping to prevent or identify financial misconduct within the local government. Looking at the use of City, State and federal funds, audits help ensure that public funds are being used efficiently and in accordance with laws. By providing an independent review, audits promote transparency, help build public trust, and hold local government officials accountable to taxpayers.
Excellence in financial reporting is nothing new for the City of Jackson. Last year, the City received the prestigious “Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting” for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023. This marks the 32nd consecutive year the City has earned this award. The Certificate of Achievement recognizes adherence to the highest standards for preparing State and local government financial reports. To qualify, a governmental unit must produce an ACFR that is both readable and well-organized, meeting specific program standards.
City of Jackson budgets and financial reports are available in the Finance Department section of the City website.