County on solid financial ground

An audit report of its 2012 fiscal year was the primary matter of business Tuesday before the St. Joseph County Board of Commissioners.

Dave Fisher, representing Jackson-based Rehmann CPA, said based on his company’s review, the county remains on solid financial ground. He noted the county’s largest operating fund had revenue in excess of $13.6 million last fiscal year. Its expenditures over the same 12-month period were more than $13.5 million.

The county’s fund balance at the end of 2012 was more than $7.8 million, which Fisher said represents nearly seven months of operations.

Furthermore, Fisher noted the county’s delinquent tax-revolving fund was in excess of $20 million at the end of 2012.

Fisher reviewed a number of recommendations offered in 2011 that the county employed last year, including recording investments at fair value and documentation to explain reasons for voided checks.

He also offered suggestions regarding a few minor housekeeping matters, such as practices related to petty cash and internal-control measures regarding bank reconciliations.