Audit finds no fraud in use of Pocatello’s street paver
An independent audit of Pocatello’s street projects released Thursday concluded there was insufficient evidence that assets were misappropriated, but that “no assurances can be given that fraud does not exist.”
The audit was conducted by Deaton and Company and was requested by City Council nearly six months ago after questions were raised about the city allowing its street paver to be used by nearby communities.
The audit found that a minimum of about $15,774 was spent on labor for street projects in American Falls, Driggs, Victor, McCammon and Chubbuck and Teton County from 2011 to 2014.
But according to the audit, there wasn’t enough evidence to show there was misappropriation when allowing the equipment to be used for a minimal amount.
Blad said the city will move forward in reviewing its city operations rules.
The city of Chubbuck, the audit concluded, reimbursed Pocatello.
The audit also couldn’t find who was responsible for approving the out-of-city projects, either in the street department or at City Hall.
Municipality 2011 2012 2013 2014 TOTAL American Falls $5,592.06 $1,098.83 $1,607.98 – $8,298.87 Teton County, Driggs & Victor – – $2,085.36 $2,626.50 $4,711.86 McCammon – – – $2,762.77 $2,762.77 Chubbuck – – – – TOTAL $5,592.06 $1,098.83 $3,693.34 $5,389.27
Mayor Blad said it’s unlikely the city would bill for the work.
