State audit finds more on Monroe County bookkeeping issues

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (AP) – An audit by the Indiana State Board of Accounts has revealed more details about bookkeeping problems at the Monroe County treasurer’s office.

The Herald Times reports the audit found the treasurer’s books didn’t line up for almost seven months in 2013, daily bank account updates weren’t being kept for four months, and bank statement balances weren’t reconciled. The audit also found the treasurer’s office needed more than $194,000 to “force balance” the accounts in December 2013.

County Treasurer Cathy Smith and an accountant hired by the county say no funds are missing.

Smith says the biggest reason behind the problems was that the office was understaffed. Monroe County Council President Cheryl Munson says it will likely take another look at staffing once the accountant has a final report.